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Autism Spectrum Disorder (Takiwātanga) Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a difference in how the brain develops and functions. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a difference in how the brain develops and functions. In te ao Māori, it is often described as takiwātanga , meaning “in his or her own time and space,” reflecting that it is an integral part of a person’s identity, shaping how they think, learn, and experience the world. Autism is not a disease, illness, or something to be “cured”, rather, it is a form of neurodiversity that contributes to unique strengths as well as challenges. While ASD varies from person-to-person, some common areas of difference compared to non-autistic people include challenges with: Communication: understanding, using, and interpreting language and social cues Social interaction: making friends, fitting in, and navigating relationships Thinking and processing: approaching problems, interests, and learning Sensory experiences: heightened or reduced sensitivity to sound, light, textures, tastes, or movement Movement and play: engaging in physical activities and hobbies differently Autistic people often have strong interests in particular topics, may repeat certain actions (such as hand-flapping or pacing), and usually prefer predictable routines. Sudden changes, new environments, or sensory overload can be especially difficult. The amount of support needed varies greatly. Some autistic individuals may need minimal assistance in daily life, while others require ongoing help with learning, communication, and everyday activities. Caregivers play an important role in providing understanding, structure, and encouragement so that autistic people can thrive and use their strengths. Useful links: Autism (for Kids) | Nemours KidsHealth Home - Autism NZ ASD / Home - SPECIAL EDUCATION ONLINE Altogether Autism - Trusted Autism Information and Advice Supporting your child if they need extra help with their learning - Ministry of Education About Autism Booklet - Parent to Parent Listening to Families You might also be interested in: Anxiety Parenting

Neurodiversity Browse our articles below. To explore our full collection of resources on other themes, click here . Autism Spectrum Disorder (Takiwātanga) Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a difference in how the brain develops and functions. Read more Explore all resources

Skylight is a national not-for-profit trust that enables children, young people, their families/ whānau and friends to navigate through times of trauma Programmes We offer resilience-building programmes for both schools and individuals, supporting mental health, emotional wellbeing, and personal growth through guided, age-appropriate experiences. Choose below to find a programme that fits your needs. Filter by Programme Type For individuals For schools Travellers Travellers is a school-based resilience programme designed for Year 9 students navigating challenging life transitions. Learn more Tai-oranga A four hour school based programme comprised of 3 modules - for tamariki 7 - 9 years. Learn more Matika An eight week programme to support tamariki through loss and grief. Learn more Pathfinders A wellbeing programme for young women and non-binary individuals aged 12 - 16. Learn more Heart Song A bereaved parents' support group in Wellington. Learn more Awhi Mai Awhi Atu Wellbeing Counselling support in schools. Learn more Parenting Through Separation PTS is a free information course for individual parents who have separated or who are contemplating separation. Learn more Waves Waves is an eight week programme that aims to support adults aged 18 and older who have been bereaved by suicide. Learn more

Parenting Through Separation PTS is a free information course for individual parents who have separated or who are contemplating separation. This practical information course is designed to help separated parents — or those thinking about separating — to understand and manage the impact of separation on their children. The focus is on what matters most: helping you put your children’s needs first. We are contracted by the Ministry of Justice to run PTS. Your personal details are entered into their secure database. A certificate of attendance is issued out of the Ministry on completion of the course. What the Course Offers A safe, supportive small group setting Guidance on co-parenting effectively with your ex-partner or co-carer Tools to create a workable parenting plan Insights into the Family Justice System and how to navigate it Practical resources and take-home materials A chance to connect with others in similar situations The course is run by experienced facilitators and provides a confidential space to share, learn, and feel supported — whether you are early in the separation journey or have been navigating it for a while. Course Locations Courses are held in Kāpiti, Lower Hutt, Porirua and Wellington CBD. If you are in a different region, check the Ministry of Justice website for providers near you. Family Works also delivers PTS in the Wellington region. Visit their website ( www.familyworkscentral.org.nz ) for their course dates and enrolment details or email [email protected] How to Enrol To register for an upcoming course, email [email protected] with your contact details. Upcoming course dates Please note - they may be subject to minor change. All sessions are 10am - 2.30pm . August 2025 Kāpiti - Saturday 30th September 2025 Lower Hutt - Saturday 6th Wellington - Saturday 20th Porirua - Friday 19th Kāpiti - Saturday 27th October 2025 Porirua - Friday 3rd Lower Hutt - Saturday 4th Wellington - Saturday 18th Kāpiti - Saturday 18th November 2025 Lower Hutt - Saturday 8th Porirua - Friday 21st Wellington - Saturday 22nd Kāpiti - Saturday 29th December 2025 Porirua - Friday 5th Kāpiti - Saturday 6th Wellington - Saturday 6th Lower Hutt - Saturday 6th You might also be interested in: Heart Song

Martin Weekes Trustee About me "My name is Martin. I'm married to Jane and a father of 9 children aged from 29-years-old down to my youngest who is 7. I am an accomplished leader, board advisor, coach and mentor specialising in transformation and change. I have over 25 years’ management experience as a senior executive working in Europe, New Zealand, Asia, Australia and the Middle East, working alongside multiple cultures and diverse work forces in the commercial, not for profit and governmental sector. Alongside my commercial career I have been involved with the not-for-profit sector working with and on the boards of several charities. This involvement has supported at-risk children, families impacted by domestic abuse, emergency rescue, children’s air ambulance, The Neonatal Trust, education, and sport helping raise over $100 million within New Zealand. I believe every child deserves the opportunity to live a full and happy life in a positive, stimulating, safe environment and it should be every parent’s wish to see that dream come to fruition. Sadly, that isn’t always the case. However, with the advances in society today that dream should become a reality for all New Zealanders regardless of financial or technological constraints and with innovative thinking, determination and personal commitment together we can make a huge positive impact for New Zealand families." Next Previous

We offer counselling for adults, children, young people, and family/whānau who are experiencing any kind of grief, loss and trauma. Kaimahi Our team brings together experience in mental health, education, and community care. We're committed to supporting whānau through life’s toughest challenges. Kathryn Ross CEO After more than 30 years in local and central government in a variety of roles. I joined Skylight because of its mission and values. Read more Amanda Gregan Director of Operations | Rangatohu Mahi Rangapū My role is to ensure the business runs smoothly and sustainably, while seeking growth opportunities across both existing and new areas of operation. Read more Jenny Devine Clinical Advisor | Kaiwhirinaki Haumanu I am a registered educational psychologist and the Clinical Advisor for Skylight Trust. Read more Vonnie Marshall Counselling Team Leader | Kaitaki Kapa Whakamāherehere I was born in Whanganui-a-Tara and lived in Nelson, where we raised three children. Read more Di Duncan Finance Officer | Kaitari Pūtea I am from the UK but relocated to New Zealand a few years ago. Read more Benjamin Jensen Senior Counselling Coordinator | Kaituitui Whakamāherehere Matua In my role at Skylight, I am a counselling coordinator/counsellor. My roles have changed over the last four years. Read more Bridy Haughey Senior Programme Coordinator | Kaituitui Hōtaka Matua I am an educational psychologist working as Senior Programmes Coordinator. Read more Emma Harbour Programmes Coordinator | Kaituitui Hōtaka Previously, a travel tour coordinator, flight attendant, foster carer and supervisor at a home for pregnant teens. I have joined Skylight this year as a Programme Coordinator. Read more Elliot Freeman Programme Coordinator | Kaituitui Hōtaka Matua I am the programme coordinator for Travellers, Skylight's wellbeing programme which supports young people to build resilience and navigate life’s ups and downs. Read more Tina Taylor Counselling Coordinator | Kaituitui Whakamāherehere I am a Counselling Coordinator at Skylight. Kia ora koutou! I am a Counselling Coordinator at Skylight. Read more Maggie Horrell Creative Arts Therapist Maggie Horrell (she/her/ia) a Creative Arts Therapist (MACAT) hailing from the south. She has a background in English and Classical Literature and spent seven years as a Seed Analyst which means her obscure knowledge is top notch. Read more Anne Bristol Office Manager | Kaiwhakahaere Tari I came to Skylight as a volunteer. This led to becoming the Board Secretary and organising Professional Development workshops across the country. Read more Azrul Bibi Administrator -Kaiwhakataka Originally from the Fiji Islands I arrived in New Zealand in 2023. I completed a Diploma in Accounting at the University of The South Pacific. Read more Maddie Barrett Social Media Coordinator | Kaituitui Pae Pāpori Along with being the social media coordinator, I am also involved in delivering programmes aimed to help tamariki and rangitahi increase their resilience and connect with their identity. Read more Dr. Nicole M. Coupe Chair Dr. Coupe is an experienced researcher and academic with a deep commitment to improving health outcomes through innovative practices. Read more Lesley Hoskin Trustee Lesley brings a wealth of experience to the Board. She is Chief Executive at the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand Read more Nikki Franklin Trustee Nikki has a strong understanding and connections with governance, built up over more than 10 years as part of the Executive Leadership Team of the Institute of Directors (IoD). Read more Brendon Oakley Trustee Brendon is a senior officer within the New Zealand Defence Force. He has seen and done much during his career, from undertaking management and support positions at Defence Headquarters in Wellington to serving with United Nations peacekeeping forces in the Middle East. Read more Tania Vincent Trustee With a career that spans high-level advisory and executive roles in both international and domestic environments, Tania understands the complexities of navigating public, private, and non-profit sectors. Read more Maria Mitimeti-Clark Trustee Maria is a leader with extensive public service experience – both at the Board level and as an Executive. A passionate advocate for better outcomes for Pasifika, Maria connected deeply with the kaupapa of Skylight. Read more Katharine Te Hau Bowden Non-voting Trustee Katharine is a Principal Advisor at Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities and a former Private Secretary for Housing. Read more Akasha Te Amo Liana Rio Non-voting Trustee I am passionate about Te Tiriti o Waitangi, how we address mental health using a Te Triti-based model, and the journey Skylight is on to become a Te Tiriti-based organisation. Read more Dr. Amanda Perry Trustee Dr. Amanda Perry is an experienced clinician and academic leader, who is passionate about supporting people to reach their potential. Read more Martin Weekes Trustee I believe every child deserves the opportunity to live a full and happy life in a positive, stimulating, safe environment and it should be every parent’s wish to see that dream come to fruition. Read more

Our unique offering is a full spectrum of care for those tamariki and rangatahi aged 5 - 24 years with mild to moderate mental health concerns. About Skylight Skylight is a New Zealand charity that supports children, young people, and whānau through tough times by providing counselling, resources, and programmes. Our story Our people Our impact Work with us More info Contact us Our story Skylight started in 1996 to support children and young people through grief, loss, and trauma. After a local bereavement service closed, a group of professionals created a trust to fill the gap—starting small in Newtown with donated space and community backing. We quickly grew into a national organisation, offering counselling, resources, and training. Programmes like Travellers brought support into schools, and we responded to major events like the Christchurch earthquakes with practical tools and immediate care. Today, we continue helping people of all ages navigate tough times, with a focus on community partnerships, cultural respect, and making support accessible to anyone who needs it. Read our full story Kaimahi Kaimahi Kathryn Ross CEO Amanda Gregan Director of Operations | Rangatohu Mahi Rangapū Jenny Devine Clinical Advisor | Kaiwhirinaki Haumanu Vonnie Marshall Counselling Team Leader | Kaitaki Kapa Whakamāherehere Meet the Skylight team What we stand for Ngā whainga – Vision In Aotearoa tamariki and rangatahi are empowered to thrive. Tā mātou whakatakanga – Mission Guiding tamariki and rangatahi hauora through responsive, informed and effective practice. Ngā uara – Values Ko tā te tamaiti - Child Centric Ngākau pono - Integrity Whakamanamanahia - Empowered / Uplifting Relationships Tāngata Rite - Equity Learn more about our strategic plan here. Our services Counselling & support We offer confidential, professional counselling for tamariki, rangatahi, whānau and adults facing grief, trauma, family breakdown, domestic violence, illness, behavioural challenges and more. With locations across the Wellington region and nationwide online/phone sessions, our family-centred approach supports individuals and entire families in finding strength together. Group programmes Skylight runs tailored group programmes to help people connect and heal. We hold regular support groups like Heart Song for bereaved parents and varied groups for children facing different forms of loss. School-based resilience Our Travellers programme equips Year 9 students to cope with change, transitions and loss through an eight-week, in-school journey led by trained staff. We also offer short courses such as Matika and Tai‑oranga, plus Awhi Mai Awhi Atu wellbeing counselling directly in schools, promoting mental health and resilience where students spend their day Resources & training Skylight provides an online resource library and support pack service with materials on grief, trauma, and resilience that we post across Aotearoa. Our workshops and professional development training empower educators, organisations, and communities to confidently support others through crises, grief, and life challenges. How we are funded Our funding comes from fundraising events, grants and donations, sponsorships, and Government contracts for some service provision. Thank you to all the individuals, organisations and grant agencies that have supported us and helped us become what we are today. Skylight is a national, not-for-profit trust. Skylight is registered with Charities Services as Skylight Trust, CC27206. We are governed by a Board of Trustees, from a wide variety of backgrounds, who share the vision of seeing people of any age supported and empowered to move forward in their lives. Annual reports View our annual reports for more information 2023 - 2024 2022 - 2023 2021 - 2022 2020 - 2021 2019 - 2020 2018 - 2019 2017 - 2018 2016 - 2017 2015 - 2016 2014 - 2015 2013 - 2014 2012 - 2013 2011 - 2012 2010 - 2011 You might also be interested in... Professional development opportunities Read more Our impact Read more Our story Read more Other organisations that can help Read more Te Kunenga Māori Strategy and Action Plan 2025 Read more Advocacy Read more Skylight's child protection policy Read more Our supporters Read more Our partners Read more Privacy policy Read more Contact us Read more Governance Read more Work with us Read more Organise your own fundraising event Read more Fundraising ideas Read more Get involved Read more

Suicide and rainbow communities Aotearoa has the highest rate of youth suicide in the developed world, with rates for LGBTQI+ people, even higher. If you are concerned about your immediate safety or the safety of someone else – ring 111 Rates of suicide and self-harm in Aotearoa are high by OECD standards. Homosexual youth rates of mental distress, suicidal and self-harm behaviours have been measured up to 12 times the rate for heterosexual youth (Christchurch Health and Development Study 2005). Rates for trans* (transgender or gender-queer) people, are even higher. A report commissioned and published as part of the Ministry of Health's Suicide Prevention Research Fund in 2012, found that LGBTQI+ people have higher lifetime risk for mental health problems, including depression , anxiety , suicide and self-harm, substance misuse and eating disorders, than their peers. Research shows that there are different factors that contribute to increase the risk of suicide in LGBTQI+ communities, especially in young people, such as growing up in harmful environments, being rejected at home, school, church or by other communities, being bullied, the lack of access to safe or supportive spaces and the lack of mental health care. It is the responsibility of everyone, to create safe and nurturing environments. Many LGBTQI+ people face discrimination, bullying, social exclusion and other challenges, that could lead to them developing mental health problems. Negative life experiences can result in mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts or behaviour whether you are LGBTQI+ or not and it is important to seek help as soon as possible. How can you support a LGBTQI+ young person Talk with and listen to them. Find a way that invites them to have an open discussion about sexual orientation and/or gender identity, as this will help them feel loved and supported. Provide support. Respond calmly and use respectful language. Stay involved. Make an effort to know their friends and to know what they are doing, as this can help them stay safe and feel cared about. Be proactive. You can access many organisations and online information resources to learn more about LGBTQI+ needs. If you or someone you know is facing tough times Skylight can offer support through counselling and/or referral to other organisations, or helpful information through our resource centre. You might also be interested in: If you are feeling suicidal Abusive relationships How to build resilience

Suicide prevention Browse our articles below. To explore our full collection of resources on other themes, click here . If you are feeling suicidal Are you finding yourself thinking about suicide? Read more Suicide and rainbow communities Aotearoa has the highest rate of youth suicide in the developed world, with rates for LGBTQI+ people, even higher. Read more Explore all resources

If you are feeling suicidal Are you finding yourself thinking about suicide? If you are concerned about your immediate safety or the safety of someone else – Ring 111 Why do I feel like this? We all experience life in different ways, how things effect us will depend on a variety of factors such as your age, support network, emotional resilience . Some of the most difficult experiences can be: experiencing bereavement loss major life stresses (e.g. a relationship breakdown, legal or financial problems) being abused (physical, emotional or sexual) being bullied or excluded chronic pain and chronic illness (including mental illness ) unemployment alcohol and drug use. It might be that you are experiencing a combination of the above in your life that is leading you to feel overwhelmed and distressed. You might be feeling so troubled that you are unable to sleep, eat, or enjoy anything. When you are in a place where you don't think you can keep going on, your thoughts might involve wishing you were dead or you may be thinking about ending your life. You might think that your family and friends would be better off without you. You may be feeling overwhelmed by situations in your life leading to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. Although you may be feeling painfully alone right now, it is important for you to know that other people have been there and have had thoughts about ending their lives too. If you think that you are at immediate risk of committing suicide: call 111 and request an ambulance. Stay on the line, speak clearly, and be ready to answer the operator’s questions visit you local hospital’s emergency department call your local Public Emergency Mental Health Service or go straight to your doctor. Each of these emergency services teams are specially trained to support people in crisis, including people feeling suicidal, and are able to keep you safe. What do I do next? There are a number of services and professionals available to help you through this difficult time. There are also things you can do, to help yourself when you’re feeling distressed or overwhelmed and thinking about hurting yourself or ending your life. It is important to remember, that you are still in control of your body and your actions. With the right steps at the right time, these thoughts can, and do, go away, even if they are really full on. If you are contemplating suicide but are not thinking about harming yourself immediately, tell someone how you are feeling, even if it is hard. Talk to a close friend, whanau member, teacher or school counsellor, anyone you can trust. Call the suicide support phone lines or make an appointment with your GP/Counsellor/Mental Health Professional. It can be helpful to have a plan in place for when these thoughts come on. Samaritans - offers confidential, non religious, and non judgmental support, to anyone who may be feeling depressed lonely or even contemplating suicide. They are available 24 hours a day. Contact number 0800 726 666 Lifeline – 0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357 (HELP) Lifeline Aotearoa’s helpline and text line provides 24/7, confidential support from qualified Counsellors and trained volunteers. Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) helpline for any person who is thinking about or attempted suicide, concerned about or supporting someone else or who is recently bereaved by suicide . Need to Talk 1737 - free call or text at any time, for support from a trained Counsellor. Remember suicidal thoughts will not go away by themselves, take them and yourself seriously. With the right support you will feel better. Skylight is here to help you navigate this difficult time. We have contract counselling services in Wellington, Porirua, Lower Hutt, Churton Park, Kāpiti, Whangarei, Auckland, New Plymouth and Christchurch and a partnership network across Aoteraroa for support in other regions. Our specialised Resource Centre and library can support you with information, publications, books and Dvds, accessible nationwide free of charge. Please follow the links to contact us for further information and access to the that support you and your whānau need. We invite you to find out about Travellers - a school based programme promoting resilience and well-being in year 9 students. You might also be interested in: Anxiety Suicide and rainbow communities How to build resilience Loss of health

Skylight Trust supports young people and whānau through tough times with counselling, resources, and programmes. Compassionate care that makes a difference. We’re a charity dedicated to helping young people navigate through tough times Request counselling Jacob School Counsellor "Through counselling [the child] has been able to acknowledge their fear and connect with joy, family and the other protective elements in life." Glenda Facilitator "Creative activities gave the girls space to express themselves in ways that felt safe and empowering, often opening conversations that may not have happened otherwise." Noel Student "It’s different now. Before I went to Travellers I didn’t really get along with my friends. N ow I speak up to them and I’m not invisible anymore." Counselling Supportive counselling to help individuals and families build resilience and navigate life’s challenges. Read more Programmes Practical tools and safe, supportive spaces for schools to work through change, trauma, and growth together. Read more Free resources A curated collection of free guides and tools to foster resilience, inspire hope, and support families. Read more We are here for you We offer specialised information to help you move through challenging times. Loss and grief Trauma Relationships Mental health Neurodiversity Family change Suicide prevention See more Need support? Contact our support services or a crisis helpline Find out more Guide for parents and carers Guide for schools Guide for young people Announcements Pou Ārahi Skylight Trust is seeking a passionate and experienced Pou Ārahi to guide and strengthen our cultural journey. This is a unique opportunity to lead with heart and uphold tikanga Māori across our services supporting children, young people, and their whānau through grief, trauma, and tough times. For more information, click here . About Skylight Skylight is a registered charity, supporting people through tough times with tailored resources, resilience programmes, and training. We believe that with the right support, anyone can find hope and strength. Ngā Whainga – Vision In Aotearoa tamariki and rangatahi are empowered to thrive. Tā mātou whakatakanga – Mission Guiding tamariki and rangatahi hauora through responsive, informed and effective practice. Read our story 24k+ Hours of therapy each year 400+ Families supported per month 200+ Schools running our programmes Stories of hope and resilience Over the past 25 years, we’ve supported thousands of rangatahi through life’s challenges, from grief and loss to family changes, anxiety, and identity. Each journey is unique, and we’re grateful to those who’ve shared their experiences. Here are just a few of their stories. Discover their stories McKay's story Brittany's story Trevney's story Melissa's story Make a donation Support a young person’s journey to resilience and hope by donating to Skylight. Donate Get involved From fundraising, to partnering with us, or even working directly with us, there are many ways to get involved. Learn more Subscribe to our newsletter Be part of our journey with updates, insights, and opportunities delivered to your inbox Email* Submit Browse our online shop We sell publications designed for building resilience in children, young people, families and communities Shop now Many thanks to our funders and supporters To see all of our supporters, click here.

Family break-up When a break up happens in the family, it can be hard on everyone, especially when there are children involved. When a family breaks up, everyone is affected. It is important to look for support for yourself and your children and teens. This can come from friends, family and whānau. It will take some adjustment to go from being a live-in family unit, to living separately, getting on as separated parents and working out mutually agreed child-care arrangements. Being partners in parenting will greatly benefit everyone involved. How parents manage a separation or divorce and how they deal with any conflicts during this time, has a big impact on how the family copes. Family break up also brings uncertainty about the future. Children and young people need the love and support from both parents, as they come to terms with the changes. They need to feel protected, safe and looked after. It is never easy making the changes to a new family routine, and sometimes it even involves moving to a new location. It can take time, and children and young people will need your support and encouragement to get used to their new life. Visit the shop for publications. You might also be interested in: Anxiety How to build resilience Parenting