The KAYAKS*  supports to children and young people aged 6 to 18 years experiencing family separation, supporting them to navigate the challenges of family separation and strengthen family relationships.

Through structured, supportive sessions, the child or young person can explore and work through complex emotions in a safe environment. The program also engages parents and carers to support children and young people in the context of their family arrangements.

We offer two streams of the program and suitability will be assessed during screening:

KAYAKS – For children navigating family separation. Includes 6–12 counselling sessions for the child and parent feedback sessions.

KAYAKS Intensive – For children from separated families affected by, or exposed to, family and domestic violence and require longer-term therapeutic support. We offer:

• Individual Sessions – Up to 15 counselling sessions and parent feedback sessions
• Group Program – A fun and engaging 8-week group delivered during the school term. Maximum group size of 10 participants.

The table below provides an overview of both programs:

FAQs

Program Suitability

• The child/young person must be willing to participate in the program
• Children or young people aged 6 to 18 years old who have:
  • KAYAKS: Experienced family separation
  • KAYAKS Intensive: Experienced family separation and impacted by family violence

Parental Consent and Engagement

Consent is required from both parents before the child/young person can participate. However, exceptions may apply – please contact us if you have any questions.

• KAYAKS: At least one parent must actively engage in the program. Where possible, we encourage both parents to participate for best therapeutic outcomes.
• KAYAKS Intensive: Parental involvement is guided by the clinician, based on the child’s best interest.

Our Team

Our qualified, experienced clinicians provide therapeutic support with a child-focused approach, utilising a variety theories and methods to assist parents create and maintain parenting arrangements that prioritises the best interests of their children.

Service Location

KAYAKS is available at Narrabundah (ACT) and Moruya (NSW).

KAYAKS Intensive is only available at Narrabundah (ACT).

Limitations of KAYAKS

• The program is not mediation.
• MCCG and the KAYAKS program cannot act as a third-party.
• The program and clinicians are unable to make recommendations regarding living arrangements for children.
• The program and clinicians are unable to pass messages to other family members, including the other parent and children.

Fees

Co-contribution fees apply, however concession and fee waivers are readily available – no explanation required.

Please contact [email protected] for further information.

Waitlist

Please email [email protected] or call 02 6162 5800 for more information.

Registration and Referral

We welcome direct enquiries from parents and carers as well as referrals from other professionals.

Please complete the registration form found here and pre-consent form found here and return it to [email protected]. Alternatively, we can arrange an appointment to complete the registration over the phone or in person at our Narrabundah office.

For further information, please email [email protected] or call 02 6162 5800.

*KAYAKS (Kids and Youth are Kool after Separation)