Kirsty Furness and Kay Mathewson at Massey University’s Centre for Psychology.

Auckland anxiety sufferers now have an opportunity to get help with a new group therapy programme at Massey University’s Centre for Psychology in Albany.

Senior clinical psychologist Kay Mathewson will supervise the programme, which begins on August 15.

“The aim is to understand anxiety and how it works, as well as talk and learn from other people who understand how you feel.”

Anxiety sufferers can feel overwhelmed, experience a sudden sense of panic, or feel self-conscious. Previous participants have reported significantly reduced anxiety and depression levels, with useful techniques and materials provided while on the course.

Group facilitator and intern psychologist Kirsty Furness says the groups are based on cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), which provides a practical approach to help manage and overcome problems.

“CBT has been very well-researched, and is a short-term, skills-focused therapy that enables participants to learn new strategies for coping with anxiety,” she says. “Group therapy can be extremely helpful because you get more support in a group environment. Everyone gets together to find a solution.”

The sessions will run every Wednesday night from 5.30 to 7pm, for an eight-week period, at the Centre for Psychology on Level 3 of the North Shore Library Building, 229 State Highway 17, Albany Village, Albany.

The programme, one of a range of community programmes provided by Centre for Psychology staff, is available to people aged 18 and over with a maximum of eight participants per group. There is an initial $70 assessment fee, and sessions cost $40 per session, or $280 plus the assessment fee if paid in advance.

The centre also offers clinical expertise for a wide range of needs, including children with emotional, learning or behavioural difficulties; individuals or couples with relationship problems; older adults suffering anxiety, grief or depression; people with work-related difficulties; and new migrants struggling with adjusting to a new culture and customs.

For more information, please contact Helen McMaster: h.mcmaster@massey.ac.nz or call 09 441 8175. People interested in therapy do not need a GP referral but will be assessed by the centre first.

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Created: 26/07/2012 | Last updated: 26/07/2012