Dubbo children are being offered free mental health coaching through a program designed by Beyond Blue.
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NewAccess, run by not-for-profit Marathon Health, is now available to children as young as 12 years old.
Access to the program was previously limited to youth aged at least 16.
The program has been adapted by its mental health coaches in response to the need for "more accessible, local mental health support".
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NewAccess team leader Kylie Lawless said the ability to deliver the program to younger people was timely as regional areas tended to experience longer waits for psychological intervention, "due to high demand for limited services".
"One in four young Australians aged between 16 and 24 years experiences at least one mental health concern each year," she said.
A recent study found the program's "solution-orientated focus" appealing to young people.
NewAccess coach Bill Murray said the use of goal-orientated therapy was "a great way to keep young people on task".
"We use workbooks so young people can go away from sessions and keep working towards the goals they've identified," he said.
"It's a great visual to track your progress and work towards outcomes."
NewAccess is delivered via phone, video or in-person consultation.
A GP referral is not required with six free sessions on offer. Visit marathonhealth.com.au/newaccess .
