Mental health support for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples can be tailored to their cultural and community needs. Indigenous Counsellors and Indigenous Healing Practitioners can provide treatment, and are recognised by Bupa.
Mental health
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples-specific mental health services
Need urgent support?
You’re not alone. If you’re in distress and need to speak to someone, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
If you're unsure which service is right for you, we recommend visiting your GP for advice.
An estimated 24% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples report having a mental health or behavioural condition.
Australian Institute of Heath and Welfare (2022). Indigenous health and wellbeing. AIHW.
Culturally appropriate
Virtual
In-person
One-on-one
This support pathway is suitable for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples with mild to moderate health issues, looking for culturally sensitive support for issues like cultural identity, grief, and acculturation stress.
The services below are Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander-specific support services, the other services listed may also appropriate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Reasons to use this service
- Looking for Indigenous counsellor and/or an Indigenous healing practitioners with empathy for local issues.
- Need to address specific cultural or community concerns.
Things to consider
- Culturally appropriate care can be limited, especially in cities.
- Challenges in accessing care that aligns with cultural values.
Explore Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-specific mental health services
The Australian Indigenous Psychologists Association (AIPA)
AIPA promotes the cultural, social, and emotional wellbeing of Indigenous Australians with links to culturally sensitive mental health services.
Ninti One’s Mental Health First Aid for Indigenous Communities Program
Ninti One trains Indigenous community members in mental health first aid.
National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO)
NACCHO is the national peak body representing 145 Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) across the country on Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander health and wellbeing issues.
Wungening Aboriginal Corporation
A Western Australia-based group providing a range of culturally sensitive services including counselling, group programs, and community support.
WellMob
Online resources to help support the social, emotional, and cultural wellbeing of our Indigenous Australian community.
13YARN
Talk with a First Nations crisis supporter for free from any mobile or pay phone.
Are you in need of urgent support?
We've put together a list of services for free support that's relevant to where you live, and what you're going through.
Discover free online treatment programs
This Way Up is an online program to learn practical tips for managing mental health. It’s a new way to do therapy from the comfort of your own home.
Bupa members can access one free mental health and wellbeing treatment program.
These resources are not intended to be a comprehensive list or to represent that Bupa endorses any specific health practitioner or program. Everyone’s health journey is individual and health outcomes can vary from person to person. These resources are also not intended to be a replacement for personalised and specific medical, healthcare or other professional advice. If you have any concerns about your health, see your doctor or other health professional.