Karinya Farm - Vic

03/02/2026

New nextgen_youth_services T-shirts have arrived. I’m loving the oldschool Pac-Man.

27/01/2026

The end of 'clinical' vibes: Why therapy in a paddock feels safer than therapy in a room. 🌿

Ever felt that "on the spot" pressure when sitting in a small room with four walls and a ticking clock? 🕒 We get it. Sometimes, the hardest part of talking is the setting itself.

At Karinya Farm, we’ve ditched the sterile clinical vibes for wide-open paddocks and fresh air. There’s something about being outside that just makes everything feel less forced. Whether we’re walking through the grass, hanging out near the animals, or just enjoying the view, the conversation happens naturally.

Without the pressure of intense eye contact or the feeling of being "observed," it’s much easier to just be yourself. It’s low-pressure, authentic, and honestly? It just feels safer.

If you're looking for a space where you can breathe, move, and grow without the clinical labels, we’re here for you.

Check out what we do at www.karinyafarmvic.com.au ✨

24/01/2026

Nature and screens don’t have to be enemies.

At Karinya Farm, we see both as tools, when they’re used with purpose and the right support.

Some days, the best “session” looks like a walk to check on the animals, a bit of gardening, or doing something hands-on like cooking or creating. Other days, it’s jumping into our NextGen – Level Up program where gaming and tech become the entry point for building real-life skills like communication, teamwork, confidence, problem-solving and emotional regulation.

It’s not about choosing farm life OR screens.
It’s about finding balance.

We meet people where they’re at, keep things low-pressure, and create a space where you can be yourself, outside the four walls, without the clinical vibe.

And yes: our counsellors are qualified, experienced, and genuinely get it.

Curious about what this could look like for you or your young person? Send us a message or have a look at www.karinyafarmvic.com.au

16/01/2026

Not all screen time is created equal! The difference? It’s all about how we use it.

At Karinya Farm’s NextGen Level Up program, we see gaming as a space for positive growth when it’s intentional. Good screen time means social engagement: young people connecting with peers, building confidence, learning to regulate emotions, and exploring creativity (like building avatars or dreaming up backstories together!). When our teens talk about what’s going on with their characters, they’re also practicing reflecting on their own lives and stories.

On the flip side, screen time can be harmful when it’s used just to check out, with no time or self-care boundaries. Long, unregulated sessions without basic breaks can do more harm than good.

At NextGen Level Up, we help families and young people find that healthy, fun balance: so screen time moves from isolation to real connection. Curious to learn more? Visit www.karinyafarmvic.com.au

13/01/2026

School refusal is rising fast – and for so many kids, it’s more than just not wanting to go to class. Maybe your child feels disconnected from friends or teachers, overwhelmed by the workload, or like they just don’t fit that "one size fits all" box at school. That struggle can leave them feeling left behind, or like they're not smart enough (which is never true!).

At NextGen Level Up, we do things differently. Our group-based program helps kids rediscover their confidence by letting them connect through gaming and creative challenges, not tests or textbooks. We encourage everyone to speak up about how they learn best, build genuine self-esteem, and realise it’s totally okay to be different. And when it comes to friendships? Sometimes the best ones start with just saying hello to someone new.

If your child is struggling with school, there’s another way. Let’s help them discover their spark again. 💚

09/01/2026

Why four walls and a couch don't work for everyone – there's another way.

At Karinya Farm, we know therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. For some, real change starts outside the four walls of an office: where you can relax, breathe, and just be yourself. That’s why our farm-based counselling lets you connect in a safe, low-pressure environment filled with animals, hands-on activities, and open space. You don’t have to sit still and talk: here, you can walk with a horse, laugh with a dog, or just hang out as you are. It’s about learning, growing, and healing in genuine ways, without feeling forced or boxed in.

If you’re looking for support that feels different: something natural, welcoming, and tailored to you: come see what Karinya Farm is all about. Ready to try another way?

09/01/2026

Karina farm ponies enjoying their chilled down stables. Misting stables for the win.

03/01/2026

We are currently taking Expressions of Interest for our new program, NextGen Youth Services – Level Up with sessions anticipated to commence in March 2026.

Next Gen – Level Up has been created specifically for children, young people and adults who are drawn to gaming, technology and digital-based interests and who benefit from structured, centre-based group supports. The program was developed in response to a growing need for inclusive spaces that engage participants who may not connect with traditional sport or outdoor-based activities.

We are currently taking Expressions of Interest for our new program, NextGen Youth Services – Level Up with sessions anticipated to commence in March 2026.

Next Gen – Level Up has been created specifically for children, young people and adults who are drawn to gaming, technology and digital-based interests and who benefit from structured, centre-based group supports. The program was developed in response to a growing need for inclusive spaces that engage participants who may not connect with traditional sport or outdoor-based activities.

Expressions of Interest are now open for Next Gen – Level Up, launching March 2026.
Built for people who love gaming and tech, Level Up is a centre-based group program for those who thrive in digital spaces. It’s a safe, structured alternative for participants who don’t always feel at home in sport or outdoor programs.
Level Up supports social skills, confidence, and community connection all through gaming, teamwork, and shared interests.

EOIs can be submitted online via:
www.nextgenyouthservices.org

02/01/2026

Our work began on the farm and it remains a place where many young people thrive through animals, nature and safe relationships.
But as our work grew, we noticed something important. For some young people, connection came easier through gaming, technology and shared digital interests. So we listened.
Over the past 12 months, we’ve intentionally shaped a program that bridges the gap between therapy and social participation low-pressure, interest-led and professionally supported.
By offering both farm-based and tech-based environments, we meet young people where they feel safest and most comfortable, supporting confidence, regulation and connection in ways that feel natural and empowering. Express your interest for nextgen_youth_services group based community participation programs Tech and gaming focused.

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03/12/2025

We believe finding your safe space helps you heal. At Karinya Farm Vic, we blend nature, animals and people who get you into our sessions to help you or a loved one explore feelings, build resilience and find calm. Ready to try a different path to wellbeing? Visit www.karinyafarmvic.com.au to learn more and get in touch! 🎨🌿💬

25/11/2025

Harry the pony has been extra cheeky lately he’s mastered the art of pulling faces just to get my attention. He knows it works every time! There’s never a dull moment with this character around the farm.

23/11/2025

Just another day at the farm… 🐍💚
Doc the snake decided our support staff made the perfect spot for an afternoon nap! He’s one of our calmest and friendliest residents
and a favourite among visitors who love learning about reptiles up close.
You never know what surprises the farm has in store from cuddly lambs and cheeky guinea pigs to sleepy snakes like Doc.
Come by and say hi to the crew (human and animal alike)! 🌾✨