http://www.somapsych.org/ 

All family members will have highly aroused central nervous systems if they live in a violent  home. It is exhausting being hypervigilant all the time, trying to avoid potential triggers and  de-escalating situations.

When our nervous systems are in balance we can efficiently respond to stress and recover quickly. Chronic stress/trauma leads to an over exposure to cortisol and other stress hormones which can disrupt our body’s processes leading to physical and emotional exhaustion. There are techniques we can use to support and calm our nervous system which increases our capacity to respond to stress better.

Some of these include mindfulness, trauma informed yoga, vagus nerve massage/movement, breathing techniques and exercise.

SomaPsych can work one to one with individuals or in groups to teach short, quick and highly effective techniques for overall nervous system support, vagal toning for down-regulation, and physiological recalibration for increased emotional regulation.

Parent/caregivers can refer yourself to a local Family Violence organisation where free support and counselling may be available. They may also be able to refer you to other agencies for further support. Te Kupenga Whakaoti Mahi Patunga/National Network of Family Violences Services provides information on what family violence services are  

available in your area. They can be contacted online at Our Member Agencies – Te Kupenga  Whakaoti Mahi Patunga, the National Network of Family Violence Services (nnfvs.org.nz) or by ringing (03) 391 0040.

Refer to Strengthening Families to access targeted support from more than one agency.  The aim is to agree on a plan that is tailored to meet the family/ whānau need and to ensure  plans are followed. More information can be found at Home | Strengthening Families 

Some marae offer health, education, justice and social services. As these services are available to meet the needs of the local community they serve, they may offer more flexible approaches to support than some organisations. 

About - Explore Wellbeing - Explore offers a nationwide range of services for the disability community, their family and supporters.

These include drug and alcohol support, psychology and wellbeing, community mental health, autism support and specialist behaviour support. 

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder - Care Action Network - There is a high prevalence of  CPVA in the FASD community in New Zealand with 57% of parents disclosing violence  (Gibbs, 2024).

FASD-CAN offer support to both parents and professionals through peer support groups and access to education and resources.

Altogether Autism - Trusted Autism Information and Advice - Providing education resources for the individual, their families, and professionals. They host a wide range of workshops which can be tailored to meet specific needs. 

Home - Autism NZ - Offers information on autism educational resources, diagnosis, transition services, and online peer support groups. It is available to autistic people, family and their support networks including professionals. 

What is ADHD | ADHD NZ - ADHD NZ - Provides information and education on ADHD including a directory of ADHD experienced professionals. 

Home - Brain Injury New Zealand- Offers support and resources to individuals and their families.

Peer-to-peer support groups are available.