At WellStop we provide assessment and a range of treatment services to adults who have engaged in sexually harmful/abusive behaviour. We work with a range of people including those with learning/intellectual disability. We are also able to provide support and education to families. We welcome queries from anyone who has concerns about their own sexually abusive behaviours or if you have found out that someone close to you has been sexually abusive. Our services include:
Assessment: the purpose of assessment is to gather information from the client, their family and others involved in supporting them. From this process, we make recommendations which inform treatment options.
Treatment: the purpose of treatment is provide the skills to stop offending and build positive, fulfilling lives. Positive outcomes are enhanced by the strong involvement of support people.
Family Services: the purpose is to provide information and support to promote safety and to assist partners and families to deal with the impacts of the abuse upon themselves.
If you would like to make a refferal then click here to go to the referrals page
FAQS
1. What if I'm just thinking about sexual abuse and haven't actually done anything wrong? We work with people who have thoughts that are concerning for them and/or others. It is important to address these thoughts as early as possible. People can change the way they think and move to healthy, respectful thinking. 2. I've got a problem with pornography and I need help, can WellStop help me? WellStop's focus is on sexually offensive behaviour. If you are viewing objectionable/illegal material then WellStop's treatment programme does address this behaviour. If you are addicted to, or have other associated problems with mainstream or legal pornography then we may be able to refer you on to an appropriate professional. 3. What if I haven't been caught yet, will you call the Police or CYF's? WellStop is committed to stopping the next incident of sexual abuse and we will take appropriate steps to ensure victims and potential victims are protected. Our confidentiality policy is clear and signed before a client comes into assessment and your own particular circumstances will be discussed with you at a pre-assessment meeting. 4. I really don't want my family/my partner to find out about my issues, will you make me tell them? WellStop understands that it can be really difficult talking to the people in your family or circle about your behaviour and choices. We believe that success in the programme and on-going safety is enhanced by a strong support team. We don't support secrets and we encourage transparency as a way of promoting safety. We can support you to identify support people and to engage with them in a safe way. Finally it is important that victims are offered the opportunity to receive support. 5. I'm not sure if my behaviour is sexual offending or not If you are worried or concerned about your behaviour or you see that it has impacted upon others then WellStop can offer an information session to discuss the issue further. 6. My friend/family member is doing behaviour which is sexually offensive but doesn't seem to care. What can I do? If you believe a child or young person is being sexually harmed then we advise you to contact the CYF National Call Centre, 0508 326 459. (open 24/7) The CYF website provides information about how calls will be responded to and about 'keeping kids safe if you are worried'. www.cyf.govt.nz You are welcome to talk to WellStop about your concerns and how to respond and we would encourage you to do so. As well, talk with someone you trust, you don't need to deal with this issue on your own. 7. I only look at images on the net, they're old images it's not like I'm abusing anyone really, so it's not a problem, right? Objectionable material such as child abuse images is a very real problem. Each time an image is viewed it can be re-traumatising for the victims. Viewing this material can damage real life relationships, impact poorly on thinking and mood and on behaviour. Finally, this behaviour is illegal and there are agencies such as the DIA and Police who are continuing to monitor and hold people accountable for this offending. 8. I'm in trouble, the Police/Department of Internal Affairs have visited my house. Can you help me? As a general rule WellStop does not begin an assessment or treatment whilst an investigation or court process is underway. However we can suggest counsellors or psychologists in private practice who can help with managing and coping during what can be a very difficult time. A referral may be made to WellStop as an outcome of the court process or you may wish to self-refer once there is a clear outcome. 9. I have no money but I need to get some help, how much does WellStop cost? We have a contract for clients who have offended towards children (under the age of 16), this subsidises therapy greatly. We do ask clients to make a contribution and this is means tested. Clients on a benefit can apply to Work and Income for counselling costs to cover their contribution and the cost of travel. If this contract doesn't fit your behaviour there is a charge for our service, this can be discussed via an enquiry. 10. I'm so ashamed about what I have done I am thinking of harming myself. What can I do? If you or someone you know is having thoughts of harming yourself we would encourage you to seek help. Please talk to your GP, or a community mental health team. There are CATT (Crisis Assessment and Treatment Teams) in your area who can respond to times of crisis, these can normally be found by contacting your local hospital or on the web or contacting the local DHB. In an emergency, where you have concern for yours or someone else's safety, contact the Emergency Services by calling 111.
