There's an urgent push to get more guidance counsellors in schools, as student demand for mental health support soars

The New Zealand Association of Counsellors wants more public funding to help increase counselling services both for adults and young people, particularly in schools.

President Christine Macfarlane says some school guidance counsellors are so busy, there's a wait list for students.

She says the earlier children can access mental health support, the better it is for their development and long term health and wellbeing.