Resources

At Broome Therapy Dogs, we believe that a calm dog is just the beginning. Our service is part of a broader mission to promote mental health awareness, emotional support, and meaningful connection across our community.

This page brings together resources for:

• Community members seeking mental health support
• Carers and support workers
• Our therapy dog handlers and volunteers

If you or someone you care about is struggling, you’re not alone — and help is available.

In an emergency or situations of immediate danger, please call 000.

For people in urgent need (no immediate danger), please call Crisis Care on 1800 199 008.

Below are trusted local and national mental health supports:

Broome Mental Health Unit - 08 9194 2640

Also known as Mabu Liyan, which translates to ”a place of good spirit”

Acute psychiatric inpatient unit (Mon-Fri 9am to 5pm)

Community-based mental health care for youth & adults

Headspace Broome - 08 9194 4500

Youth friendly space offering a range of services to support all young people aged 12 to 25

Boab Health Services - 08 9192 7888

Multidisciplanary primary health care services in allied health, mental health & care coordination

Helping Minds Broome - 1800 811 747

Support to family and friends of people living with mental health challenges

Broome Regional Aboriginal Medical Service (BRAMS) - 08 9194 4800

Holistic health & wellbeing support for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people

Broome Family & Domestic Violence Refuge - 08 9193 6146

Crisis accommodation and support for women and children facing violence

Spoke to a Bloke - Broome - Via Facebook

Men’s mental health and community connection (peer-based)

Saturday morning walks along Cable Beach, culminating in the annual Walk for a Bloke

Broome Men’s Shed - 0419 043 967 (Chris)

Providing  a place where men can work on projects, learn new skills, unwind and talk with mates.

Lifeline - 13 11 14

24/7 suicide prevention and crisis support

Beyond Blue - 1300 224 636

24/7 support & information for people affected by anxiety, depression & suicide

Kid’s Helpline - 1800 551 800

24/7 phone & on-line counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25

Mensline Australia - 1300 789 978

24/7 Support for men with family or mental health challenges

13 YARN - 13 92 76

24/7 culturally safe support for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples

1800 RESPECT - 1800 737 732

24/7 support if you, or someone you know is experiencing sexual assault or domestic and family violence

How Therapy Dogs Support Mental Wellbeing

• Lower stress and blood pressure
• Increase oxytocin (“feel good” hormone)
• Promote a sense of safety and calm
• Encourage social interaction and emotional expression
• Provide distraction from pain, trauma, or isolation

Tips for Clients and Carers

• Try to plan quiet time before and after a visit
• Let the dog set the pace — no pressure to interact
• Use the visit as a safe opportunity for gentle communication
• Don’t underestimate the value of small moments of connection
• If you notice a positive change, talk about it and celebrate it!

Tips for Therapy Dog Handlers

• Prioritise your own mental wellbeing – your calm is contagious
• Practice grounding techniques before sessions
• Keep detailed session notes to reflect and improve
• Debrief with a peer or coordinator if a session is challenging
• Remember – presence is more powerful than perfection