Accessing free mental health and wellbeing support just got easier for Bay of Plenty residents, with the Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation launching a new online referral system for its rebranded service, BeingWell.

The new online booking page allows individuals to make appointments directly with health coaches or Health Improvement Practitioners (HIPs), without needing to go through a GP first.

The service is free and tailored to suit people’s preferences – whether in person, by phone, online or in community spaces.

“This reflects our commitment to reducing barriers and making support more accessible to more people across the Bay,” said WBOPPHO’s general manager community services Sarah Stevenson.

Sarah Stevenson - General Manager Community Services. Photo / Supplied

The BeingWell service is already well-utilised, averaging more than 600 patient interactions per month. Importantly, 83% of people are seen within one week of referral – many on the same day.

Stevenson said BeingWell brings together a range of professionals including health coaches, HIPs, social workers and counsellors, offering practical and emotional support for everyday challenges such as stress, anxiety, grief, lifestyle changes and chronic health issues.

The rebrand to ‘BeingWell’ follows community consultation, with the name inspired by service users’ feedback about taking small, meaningful steps toward wellbeing.

It also unifies the organisation’s previous Co-ordinated Primary Options (CPO) and Integrated Primary Mental Health and Addictions (IPMHA) services under one identity.

Health coach Tukohirangi Pini. Photo / Supplied

“You don’t need to see a doctor to get started,” Stevenson said.

“Just fill in the form on our website or ask your general practice for a free appointment.”

BeingWell is offered through most general practices in Western and Eastern Bay of Plenty and is available to anyone, regardless of the challenge they’re facing.

Health coach Carla Moreira Cuesta. Photo / Supplied

Support is flexible – there’s no cost, no session limits, and people can have one-off appointments or ongoing check-ins. The holistic approach considers emotional, physical, social and spiritual wellbeing.

Common reasons people seek support include low mood, anxiety, or grief; sleep issues and stress; lifestyle and nutrition goals; parenting and relationship difficulties; long-term health condition management; or digital overwhelm or breaking unhealthy habits.

Health coach Abhi Whig. Photo / Supplied

To learn more or to book an appointment, visit: www.wboppho.org.nz/free-mental-health-services

BeingWell services are available at more than 35 clinics and practices across Tauranga, Pāpāmoa, Mount Maunganui, Whakatāne, Ōmokoroa, Katikati, Te Puke, and Te Puna. A full list of participating providers is available on the BeingWell website.