Beam Health is delivering a new Hunter New England and Central Coast
Primary Health Network funded pilot program providing free mental health supports for children under 12 years of age.
Program Information
The program is fully funded by the Commonwealth Government and Primary Health Network, meaning there are no out-of-pocket costs for eligible participants. Children that meet the criteria are eligible for a maximum of 12 (50 minute) sessions in a calendar year with a trained and skilled Psychologist or Mental Health Practitioner. Where appropriate, group sessions may also be facilitated and do not count towards the individual evidence-based therapy services in a calendar year.
Referrals will primarily be received directly from General Practitioners. However, provisional referrals may also be received from Paediatricians, Child & Family Health Nurses, as well as School Counsellors. If a child is provisionally referred a maximum of 2 service contacts can occur before referral from a General Practitioner (GP) must be received for services to continue.
How do I access the program?
Speak to your GP about accessing the program. Your GP may or may not be aware of the program, so providing our details for them to contact us may be helpful in determining your eligibility. The GP will make the decision as to your eligibility and make a referral to the Little Sparks program.
Proudly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments
This Little Sparks Program is supported by funding from the Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network (the PHN) through the Australian Government’s PHN Program.