Milestone Reached in Family Counseling Services in Austria, as Announced by Minister Plakolm

Family counseling in Austria is now more accessible than ever, with the introduction of online services and the expansion of existing centers. The voluntary parent counseling service, known as the Parent-Child Pass, is designed to provide guidance and support during pregnancy and the early stages of parenting.

The Parent-Child Pass, a new service under the Parent-Child Pass renewal, is not mandatory and is available for those who choose to use it. It covers a wide range of topics, including separation, psychological stress, upbringing, violence, and sexuality, with nearly half a million counseling sessions held last year.

The organization offering this online service, including video and chat counseling, started a pilot phase in May 2025 and is planned to be expanded to about 100 counseling centers by the end of 2025. This expansion will make family counseling services available across all districts in Austria, with 391 centers in total.

Family counseling sessions can be held via chat or video conference, providing convenience for those who may find it difficult to attend in-person sessions. In-depth counseling sessions can be arranged within a few days, ensuring prompt assistance for families in need.

The Minister for Families, Claudia Plakolm, has emphasized the importance of this service, stating that it can help families navigate difficult decisions that arise during this time. She also thanked the professionals who work with people in various life situations, highlighting their dedication.

Family counseling centers in Austria provide a reliable and trustworthy anchor point for families in challenging situations. These centers, such as the Kolping Life Counseling in Vienna, are staffed by professionals with expertise in various fields, including medicine, law, social work, or psychology.

It is important to note that the Parent-Child Pass voluntary parent counseling service is not a replacement for the existing family counseling services in Austria. Instead, it is an additional service offered alongside the current services.

For those interested in the Parent-Child Pass, more information can be found on the platform familienberatung.gv.at. Photos from the event introducing the Parent-Child Pass voluntary parent counseling service are also available for free via the Federal Chancellery's photo service.

In conclusion, the expansion of voluntary parent counseling services in Austria offers a valuable resource for families seeking support and guidance during challenging times. The convenience of online services, combined with the expertise of professional counselors, makes family counseling more accessible than ever before.

Milestone Reached in Family Counseling Services in Austria, as Announced by Minister Plakolm