How It Works

Every Young Person Is Different

There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to supporting young people.

At YES, we start by taking the time to understand your young person, your family, and what's been happening. From there, we work together to create a support plan that is practical, realistic, and tailored to your family's needs.

Step 1: Free Consultation

Your journey begins with a free 15-minute phone or video consultation.

This is an opportunity to discuss your concerns, ask questions, and explore whether YES is the right fit for your young person and family.

There's no obligation and no pressure—just a chance to have a conversation and understand what support might be helpful.

Step 2: Family Session

If you decide to move forward, the first appointment is usually a family assessment session.

This meeting takes place in your home or online (if more than 20kms from Takapuna, Auckland). Most families prefer to meet in the evening, when parents or caregivers and the young person are available. These sessions usually take between 1 and 1.5 hours.

During this time, Robbie will:

  • Meet parents, caregivers and the young person

  • Learn about what has been happening

  • Understand the challenges your family is facing

  • Identify strengths, interests and existing supports

  • Discuss goals and hopes for the future

  • Begin building a connection with your young person

Many families tell us that simply having someone listen and understand their situation is incredibly helpful.

Family Assessment Fees

First hour $145
Each additional half hour (or part thereof) $55

Travel free unless more than 10kms from Takapuna (between $15 - $30 - to be discussed)

Step 3: Decide What's Right for Your Family

Following the family session, you'll have an opportunity to decide whether ongoing support feels right for your young person and family.

There is no obligation to continue.

If ongoing support is recommended, Robbie will discuss the most suitable approach and frequency of sessions.

Step 4: Ongoing Youth Support

For most young people, weekly sessions provide the best results.

Some families prefer fortnightly sessions, which can also work depending on the circumstances.

Sessions focus on:

  • Building trust and connection

  • Developing practical coping strategies

  • Working through challenges as they arise

  • Improving confidence and resilience

  • Supporting school engagement and motivation

  • Building life skills and independence

  • Creating positive and achievable goals

Weekly Online Session Fees: 45 Minutes $95

Why Online Sessions Often Work Best

One of the biggest challenges for many families is simply getting young people to appointments.

We've found that online sessions often provide the best outcomes because they:

  • Remove travel time

  • Fit more easily around school and family commitments

  • Reduce barriers to engagement

  • Allow young people to connect from a familiar environment

  • Make regular support more sustainable over time

Many young people are comfortable communicating online and often engage more readily when support is convenient and accessible.

To maintain connection, occasional face-to-face catch-ups are often helpful where practical.

Support Between Appointments

Life doesn't always happen on schedule.

Where appropriate and when time allows, Robbie may be available to provide brief support between appointments, particularly when a young person or family is experiencing increased stress, anxiety, or a difficult situation.

This additional support is one of the things many families value most about working with YES.

Our goal is not just to provide appointments, but to genuinely come alongside young people and their families during challenging times.

Ready To Take The First Step?

Book a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your situation and discover whether YES is the right fit for your young person and family.