There are calls for counselling services to be embedded across all primary schools as a pilot initiative shows clear gains.  

An Education Review Office report reveals 8 in 10 students report better mental health after receiving support from the Counselling in Schools programme.  

It also finds improvements to school attendance, behaviour and learning.  

Otago-based Mirror Services director Deb Fraser says the programme allows children to speak with someone who has the skills and knowledge to help them.  

She says support from the wider community and family is still important, but there are times where professional intervention is required. 

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