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Akasha Te Amo Liana Rio Trustee | Mema o te Poari About me "I understand what it is to go through grief, loss and cycles of mental health. I support the kaupapa, its focus on tamariki and rangatahi and the importance of Skylight’s work. I am also 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. I am here to learn from the rangatira on the Board and ensure that Skylight has long term aspirations and intergenerational impact." Akasha was drawn to the Board because the people on the Board are passionate about the Skylight staff and the clients and want to make a difference. She wants to go beyond the Crown-Māori relationship and see an authentic understanding of Te Tiriti throughout all facets of society. Akasha has a Masters Degree in Māori/Pacific and Indigenous People’s Law, a Bachelor of Laws, and a Bachelor of Social Sciences. Next Previous

Ageing As people age, they commonly face many changes and losses. Grieving for these, and adjusting to new circumstances, can be hard. As people age, they commonly face many changes and losses. Grieving for these, and adjusting to new circumstances, can be hard. Aging is a normal stage of life, with many gains and things to enjoy. However, it brings challenges too. We know that older people face gradual physical changes, but the challenges of aging aren’t only physical. Aging involves a succession of changes and losses, big and small, which can be gradual or sudden. Consequently, older people continually need to adjust. It can feel like they have less and less control over how they want things to be. What’s been lost, can be hard to come to terms with. Such losses naturally affect how people see themselves and their lives, as well as their levels of self-confidence, mood and outlook, overall well-being, and sense of future. Common losses include: The end of employed work after retirement or job loss. This can also mean a changed daily routine, not seeing workmates as before, and needing a new sense of purpose. Financial changes . For most, income levels will decrease when work finishes. Financial worries may increase, with limited dollars to fund current and future needs. Changes in one’s physical body and health . Health challenges typically increase with age. As the physical body ages, people commonly begin to encounter changes in abilities such as eyesight, hearing, balance, continence, or mobility. Loss of memory . It becomes harder to remember things, even if the information is important. This can be very frustrating. Dementia can complicate this further. Loss of independence . A new reliance on others to assist with daily life, and not always being able to do what they want, when they want, how they want. People may need to stop driving. They may need others for the most personal care and hygiene routines. Loss of familiar surroundings. People might need to move away from a home they have lived in for a long time, or from one they do not want to leave. They may also need to give away personal possessions they’re unable to keep. Loss of friends and family . There can be changes in the circle of friends and family. Others may now live at a distance and visit less, or older friends may become ill themselves and unable to keep in touch, and perhaps loved ones may die. Also, older people can become socially isolated if they are less able to join in with life as before. Loss of respect . After years of contributing to family, whānau, and community, as well as being employers or employees, older people can feel side-lined, without status, and less respected. What can help? People respond in individual ways to life challenges. To be in a good position to deal with whatever comes with aging, it can help to: draw on your internal resilience (what attitudes and coping strategies have worked well for you before?) be willing to try new ways of doing things and problem-solve as positively as possible honestly acknowledge challenges and losses, so they can be faced make time to grieve losses in your own way – grief is a normal healing process that can help you gradually adjust to changes communicate how you’re thinking and feeling, and what you’re needing – find someone you trust to talk to when things feel hard or overwhelming, such as your GP, a good friend, a caregiver, a Counsellor, or perhaps call a helpline express and release what’s building up inside (e.g. talk, cry, share memory stories, write down troubling thoughts and feelings, or play music that reflects your mood, walk it out) look after yourself well every day, paying attention to getting some exercise, good rest, and having a nutritious diet keep connected with others – make time to be social and keep in touch with friends and family often use your sense of humour and spend time with those who laugh and have fun do enjoyable things and go to enjoyable places that lift your spirit ask a friend to support you at events or appointments that are stressful for you use your abilities and strengths, whatever age you are, to contribute to things and give you a sense of achievement do things that are meaningful for you or have a sense of purpose find some ways to support others who are finding things challenging too remember the good things life has taught you and brought you ask for help when you need it see a GP about any health or mental health concerns. You might also be interested in: How to build resilience Delayed grief Subscribe to our newsletter Looking for more support? Get insights, tools, and stories from Skylight — and a free guide to help you get started. You can unsubscribe at any time. First name Email address* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Subscribe By submitting this form, you consent and agree to Skylight Trust collecting and handling your personal information in accordance with our privacy policy . If you have any questions or wish to view or amend your information, please email us at [email protected]

Rose - Resilience Web Series Meet Rose in our resilience web series! Rose tells us that resilience is the ability to bounce back and to not let things bring you down. Through her experiences she shows how surrounding yourself with positive people is something that can really change your outlook. You might also be interested in: Trevney shares his story Journeys Through Methamphetamine Addiction Mana - Resilience Web Series Jahnya shares her story Brittany shares their story McKay - Resilience Web Series Rose - Resilience Web Series Melissa - Resilience Web Series Bella - Resilience Web Series

Practical Strategies for Self-Care and Resilience This is the third and final instalment of Skylight's webinar partnership with the Child Cancer Foundation. You might also be interested in: Parenting through Grief Grief 101 for Parents

Maggie Horrell Creative Arts Therapist | Kaituku Haumanu - Toi About me 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. In her clinical work, Maggie is passionate about offering people of all ages the opportunity to express themselves through creativity and cultivates curiosity and wonderment in her therapeutic practice. She has worked with a diverse range of clients – from tamariki to rangatahi in schools, group work with older adults with cognitive and/or physical disabilities and facilitating wellbeing sessions for rest home residents with dementia. Maggie is usually seen sporting a handmade or vintage outfit and will easily spend all her spare time in her home sewing studio surrounded by house plants. Next Previous

Matika An eight week programme to support tamariki through loss and grief. About Matika Matika is a supportive, therapeutic programme created especially for tamariki aged 6–12 who have experienced the death of a loved one. Designed with a resilience-building and trauma-informed approach, Matika helps tamariki understand, express, and process their grief in a safe, nurturing environment. Matika is an eight-week programme, run once a week during the school term. Each session blends therapeutic and psychoeducational activities, using art, play, discussion, and connection to help tamariki make sense of their loss and find healthy ways to move forward. The programme is closed-group, meaning the same small group of children attend each week — allowing for deep trust, safety, and individualised attention. We welcome up to nine children per programme to ensure each child receives the care and support they need. Tamariki can be referred by a counsellor, school, GP, or self-referred by their whānau. How Matika Works Each session is co-facilitated by two trained, experienced counsellors (our Matika buddies), with support from an intern counsellor or psychology graduate. Activities are designed to: Encourage expression through creative play and art Teach tamariki to name and understand their feelings Build emotional awareness and regulation skills Foster a sense of connection and belonging Help tamariki discover their inner strengths and resilience After completing the eight-week programme, tamariki will: Understand how grief and loss happen differently to each person, but they are experienced by all. Feel connected to their loved ones who have passed. Be able to identify their feelings and emotions, validating them and expressing them in a healthy way. Have a range of practical ideas for managing difficult feelings. Be able to tap into their internal or external resources when experiencing challenging times. Be able to ask for help or support from their whānau Build stronger bonds with whānau and others who support them Upcoming dates Term 4 2025: Wellington Term 1 2026: Lower Hutt Term 2 2026: Wellington Term 3 2026: Porirua Term 4 2026: Kapiti Contact us today to learn more or register your interest ([email protected] ). We are here to help. You might also be interested in: Sound Bridge Travellers Tai-oranga Matika Pathfinders Heart Song Awhi Mai Awhi Atu Parenting Through Separation

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. Skylight is contracted by the Ministry of Justice to deliver the Parenting through Separation course in the Wellington region. The four hour 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. Link here to see the upcoming schedule. 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 Visit the shop for publications. You might also be interested in: Anxiety How to build resilience Parenting Subscribe to our newsletter Looking for more support? Get insights, tools, and stories from Skylight — and a free guide to help you get started. You can unsubscribe at any time. First name Email address* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Subscribe By submitting this form, you consent and agree to Skylight Trust collecting and handling your personal information in accordance with our privacy policy . If you have any questions or wish to view or amend your information, please email us at [email protected]

Sound Bridge Sound Bridge is a music therapy group for young people aged 12–18 who want to play, jam, and create music together. Sound Bridge: Music Therapy Group for Young Musicians What is Sound Bridge? Sound Bridge is a music therapy group designed for young people aged 12–18 who want to play, jam, and create music alongside peers. It’s a safe, supportive space to explore music, connection, and identity, facilitated by Skylight's music therapist Anthony Manere. Why join? Active music-making : Collaborate through playing, improvisation, and songwriting. Peer support : Connect with others in a validating safe environment. Identity development : Use music to explore self-expression, build confidence, and find your voice. Emotional wellbeing : Evidence shows that music therapy can boost mood, reduce stress, and support mental health long-term. Who is it for? Young people aged 12–18 who already identify as musicians (e.g., instrumentalists, singers, producers). When and where? The group takes place in the Skylight office in Wellington and runs for 8-9 weeks. Why refer a young person? Group music therapy is a low-risk, evidence-based way to support youth mental health while strengthening their musical identity. Participants gain confidence, emotional regulation skills, and supportive peer relationships — all while doing what they love: making music. How to register interest If you know a young person who would benefit, or would like more information please email: [email protected] Include: Participant's name Age Contact phone number You might also be interested in: Matika Parenting Through Separation Waves

Awhi Mai Awhi Atu Wellbeing Counselling support in schools. Supporting Student Wellbeing: Awhi Mai Awhi Atu Counselling in Schools Students' mental health is closely tied to how they engage, achieve, and show up at school. When they’re supported emotionally, they thrive academically and socially. Awhi Mai Awhi Atu is a school-based counselling programme that began in 2021, designed to offer evidence-based emotional support for tamariki in primary and intermediate schools. It’s about helping young people feel safe, heard, and empowered to succeed both in the classroom and beyond. Skylight, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, is proud to be Aotearoa’s largest provider of this initiative, currently serving 32 schools across South Canterbury, Waikato, and Wellington. Feedback: "The learning support team have been bringing in students who are socially anxious to meet with me as drop-ins to see if they will feel comfortable in the therapy room - all have been keen to move forward with a referral. I attribute this to the calming powers of plasticine!" School Counsellor "A parent emailed to thank me for my work and said she has seen a huge difference in her child since doing the counselling." School Counsellor "Kaiako (teachers) have commented that they’ve seen an increase in attendance from ākonga that have accessed counselling." Teacher "During the painting with music, one of the tamariki whispered, “I didn’t know colours could make you feel better”. Te Korowai Programme Facilitator "There were moments of pride when tamariki added feathers to the korowai. It started to mean something to them – they touched it with reverence, like it had power." Te Korowai Programme SWiS How to Register Your Interest If you’re interested in this programme as a school counsellor, educator or Principal, please reach out to us at [email protected] You might also be interested in: Travellers Tai-oranga Matika Pathfinders

Matty - Resilience Web Series Here’s Matty in our resilience web series. Matty explains how surrounding himself with friends and family made him a happier person. Finding people with similar goals as you allows you to work together and push each other. Matty makes the connection between physical wellbeing and resiliency. You might also be interested in: Trevney shares his story Journeys Through Methamphetamine Addiction Matty - Resilience Web Series Mana - Resilience Web Series Jahnya shares her story Brittany shares their story McKay - Resilience Web Series Rose - Resilience Web Series Melissa - Resilience Web Series Bella - Resilience Web Series

Abusive relationships Partner abuse is a sign of an unhealthy relationship. What is partner abuse? Partner abuse can take different forms, and could be physical, emotional or sexual. Some signs of partner abuse are when your partner: controls the finances doesn't allow you to do things like get a job stops you seeing family, whānau and friends uses insults - like calling you lazy, fat, or stupid, or other names that make you feel bad is very jealous threatens to leave, kill, or hurt you or the children threatens or hurts family, whānau pets slaps, hits, punches, chokes, pushes, burns you or the children hurts or threatens you or the children with weapons or objects forces you into sexual acts you don't want destroys property takes away the car keys. Partner abuse is a sign of an unhealthy relationship . In an unhealthy relationship there is: lack of trust and openness one person has power over the other one person is physically, sexually and/or emotionally hurtful to the other. If you feel you are in an abusive relationship please see the organisations listed which may be able to help you. Skylight can provide counselling support to you and children or please contact the resource centre for further information. You might also be interested in: Bullying Trauma If you are feeling suicidal How to build resilience Delayed grief Subscribe to our newsletter Looking for more support? Get insights, tools, and stories from Skylight — and a free guide to help you get started. You can unsubscribe at any time. First name Email address* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Subscribe By submitting this form, you consent and agree to Skylight Trust collecting and handling your personal information in accordance with our privacy policy . If you have any questions or wish to view or amend your information, please email us at [email protected]

Loss of health One of the biggest challenges of any illness or disability is coping with the changes, losses, and grief that they can bring with them. One of the biggest challenges of any illness or disability is coping with the changes, losses and grief that they can bring with them. What can help? A loss of health, mental health, and/or physical abilities may be gradual or sudden. What might happen next is often very uncertain. An unwell person must adjust to both physical changes and their consequences. Everyday life can become quite different. There can be all kinds of losses to adjust to. A person may lose: their old self – how they used to be (identity) their sense of control over their body or mind independence the ability to keep up regular, everyday routines, to do familiar tasks, or be in usual roles mobility the ability to drive employment and previous income, career plans opportunities to do things they’d anticipated or planned – their dreams ready access to friends, family, whānau and community previously enjoyed confidence – in themselves, in the future self-esteem privacy and dignity familiar surroundings, if a move from home is needed The grief that naturally follows such significant and life-altering losses, can take considerable time to process. Grief can start at diagnosis, but with daily reminders and frustrations about what’s been lost, or with new health issues arising or crises happening, people can feel they are in a continuous cycle of loss and grief. Despite this, sometimes their grief can go unrecognised or unacknowledged by others, who don’t realise the huge impact that a change in health can have. What can help? Any kind of loss needs acknowledging and grieving. Make time to grieve honestly for what has changed and been lost. Do it in your way. Grief is a process that helps people adjust gradually to what’s happened. There will be good days and not so good days. Be kind to yourself Express yourself. Maybe write thoughts and feelings down, use music, have conversations, get creative, cry, yell… everyone is different, but grief can bring strong, deep feelings and releasing them can be a relief Talking can help. Find someone trusted to talk to about what you’re dealing with. Perhaps a close family member or friend, a Counsellor, a doctor or health support worker, or others who have 'been there’ and know what it’s really like Use whatever stress-busting activities that have helped before, to manage stress and be willing to try some new ideas Ask for help if you need it and use all the support that’s available Keep connected with others and avoid becoming isolated. Reach out with visits or by phone, email, messaging, video chat, or even letters Your outlook matters. A positive attitude can help you look for solutions and give things a go Gratitude can help you notice the good things, in the middle of big challenges Optimism can help you find some hope Use your sense of humour and spend time with those who like to laugh and have fun Give yourself a break. Distract yourself sometimes with things you still enjoy doing Keep up routines if that helps you feel more settled Look after yourself well, every day. Get the basics right, like exercise, good sleep, and regular meals Find some extra support if you are struggling with depression or dark thoughts. You don’t need to go through this on your own. Connect with a doctor, Counsellor, support person, support group, or a helpline. You might also be interested in: Depression How to build resilience Ageing Delayed grief Subscribe to our newsletter Looking for more support? Get insights, tools, and stories from Skylight — and a free guide to help you get started. You can unsubscribe at any time. First name Email address* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Subscribe By submitting this form, you consent and agree to Skylight Trust collecting and handling your personal information in accordance with our privacy policy . If you have any questions or wish to view or amend your information, please email us at [email protected]