Therapists in Christchurch
We all experience difficulties in life which can either be current or have its origins in our past. I can support you to gain deeper insight, understanding and meaningful change with my engaging and upfront therapy style.I have an extensive background in both public and private psychology settings working with a vast array of issues from addiction, trauma to adult adhd and more. My passion is to create therapy which is accessible and personal .
We all experience difficulties in life which can either be current or have its origins in our past. I can support you to gain deeper insight, understanding and meaningful change with my engaging and upfront therapy style.I have an extensive background in both public and private psychology settings working with a vast array of issues from addiction, trauma to adult adhd and more. My passion is to create therapy which is accessible and personal .
20/4/26 Limited spaces available! I enjoy working with people from a diverse set of backgrounds and ages. I believe that therapy can bring meaningful change for those I work with. You may be wondering if therapy is the right approach for you, and not know where to start or what to say. That is completely normal! My aim is to create a safe space where we can explore what brings you to therapy. I provide a personalised flexible approach to help people get the most out of sessions, and offer practical tools that can be used in everyday life. I offer sessions outside business hours for those who need flexibility. Christchurch or Online.
20/4/26 Limited spaces available! I enjoy working with people from a diverse set of backgrounds and ages. I believe that therapy can bring meaningful change for those I work with. You may be wondering if therapy is the right approach for you, and not know where to start or what to say. That is completely normal! My aim is to create a safe space where we can explore what brings you to therapy. I provide a personalised flexible approach to help people get the most out of sessions, and offer practical tools that can be used in everyday life. I offer sessions outside business hours for those who need flexibility. Christchurch or Online.
I provide a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where individuals can explore life’s challenges, gain greater self-understanding, and move towards healing and growth. I believe that every person has inherent worth and the capacity for positive change when they are met with empathy, acceptance, and genuine understanding.
I am passionate about helping people reconnect with their resilience, discover hope, and create meaningful change. My goal is to foster a therapeutic relationship where you feel heard, valued, and empowered to navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence and self-compassion.
I provide a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where individuals can explore life’s challenges, gain greater self-understanding, and move towards healing and growth. I believe that every person has inherent worth and the capacity for positive change when they are met with empathy, acceptance, and genuine understanding.
I am passionate about helping people reconnect with their resilience, discover hope, and create meaningful change. My goal is to foster a therapeutic relationship where you feel heard, valued, and empowered to navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence and self-compassion.
I am currently accepting new clients under ACC sensitive claims. Navigating life can be challenging. I provide a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental therapy space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences freely. You are the expert in your own life, and together we can work towards understanding what feels difficult, uncovering patterns that no longer serve you, and finding new ways to move forward.
I work from a trauma-informed lens and from an integrative perspective. My approach is gentle and psychodynamic, allowing reflection, and focused on the feeling behind what is happening for you.
I am currently accepting new clients under ACC sensitive claims. Navigating life can be challenging. I provide a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental therapy space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences freely. You are the expert in your own life, and together we can work towards understanding what feels difficult, uncovering patterns that no longer serve you, and finding new ways to move forward.
I work from a trauma-informed lens and from an integrative perspective. My approach is gentle and psychodynamic, allowing reflection, and focused on the feeling behind what is happening for you.
I understand that some people feel rather nervous about coming to counselling. The thought of being vulnerable as you share personal strories and struggles with a stranger can feel daunting. Change is uncomfortable, but if you are reading this I imagine you are wanting something to change. You are stronger than you know. As a trained professional I work with all demographics, where no story is too big or too small. I promise to be non-judgemental, empathetic, caring, and to work safely. In our journey together you will always have autonomy as we assess and reassess the goals you are wanting to achieve.
I understand that some people feel rather nervous about coming to counselling. The thought of being vulnerable as you share personal strories and struggles with a stranger can feel daunting. Change is uncomfortable, but if you are reading this I imagine you are wanting something to change. You are stronger than you know. As a trained professional I work with all demographics, where no story is too big or too small. I promise to be non-judgemental, empathetic, caring, and to work safely. In our journey together you will always have autonomy as we assess and reassess the goals you are wanting to achieve.
Offering compassionate support - Someone neutral who you can rely on to be non-judgemental, empathetic and confidential. Even if things are generally going well but you'd like to make some improvements in life, do some self-discovery work, or process old issues from your past, having a safe, supportive space just for yourself, your thoughts and emotions, can be hugely beneficial. I look forward to hearing from you :-)
Online available to everyone with in-person options if you are in Christchurch.
Offering compassionate support - Someone neutral who you can rely on to be non-judgemental, empathetic and confidential. Even if things are generally going well but you'd like to make some improvements in life, do some self-discovery work, or process old issues from your past, having a safe, supportive space just for yourself, your thoughts and emotions, can be hugely beneficial. I look forward to hearing from you :-)
Online available to everyone with in-person options if you are in Christchurch.
Sometimes life throws us curve balls, sometimes we just don't know what to do now, sometimes everything is just too hard. Sometimes really BIG things are or have been happening.
You feel you have a lump in your chest all the time, your head doesn’t allow you to relax or sleep. Thinking who can I talk to sort out all these emotions.
You feel overwhelmed by sadness cause a Loved one has died or left or the life you thought you were going to have has been stopped in its tracks.
You wonder how you are going to “Fix” your relationship.
This is where I come in. This is where I can help:
Sometimes life throws us curve balls, sometimes we just don't know what to do now, sometimes everything is just too hard. Sometimes really BIG things are or have been happening.
You feel you have a lump in your chest all the time, your head doesn’t allow you to relax or sleep. Thinking who can I talk to sort out all these emotions.
You feel overwhelmed by sadness cause a Loved one has died or left or the life you thought you were going to have has been stopped in its tracks.
You wonder how you are going to “Fix” your relationship.
This is where I come in. This is where I can help:
Hi there, I'm Laura, registered counsellor for the past 14 years. I have worked with a variety of clients with an array of personal challenges with a special interest in working with families in addiction, trauma, grief, anxiety and depression. My focus is on facilitating and exploring with clients ways to develop their inner resource and cope with triggering situations, fostering therapeutic relationships and helping clients to achieve their goals and support long term wellbeing.
Hi there, I'm Laura, registered counsellor for the past 14 years. I have worked with a variety of clients with an array of personal challenges with a special interest in working with families in addiction, trauma, grief, anxiety and depression. My focus is on facilitating and exploring with clients ways to develop their inner resource and cope with triggering situations, fostering therapeutic relationships and helping clients to achieve their goals and support long term wellbeing.
Life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship difficulties, major life changes or navigating neurodivergence leaves you feeling exhausted, disconnected and unsure where to turn. I offer a warm, compassionate and non judgemental space, where we can explore experiences in a gentle and supportive way. I am a UK trained, qualified counsellor with years of experience supporting adults and teenagers through a wide range of emotional and life challenges. My approach is person centred, integrating trauma informed, somatic and CBT approaches, where appropriate.
Life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship difficulties, major life changes or navigating neurodivergence leaves you feeling exhausted, disconnected and unsure where to turn. I offer a warm, compassionate and non judgemental space, where we can explore experiences in a gentle and supportive way. I am a UK trained, qualified counsellor with years of experience supporting adults and teenagers through a wide range of emotional and life challenges. My approach is person centred, integrating trauma informed, somatic and CBT approaches, where appropriate.
You may feel weighed down by stress, grief, or self-doubt, and long for more ease, clarity, and connection in your daily life. In our work together, I offer a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where your story is welcomed and respected. Many of the people I see are navigating life transitions, healing from trauma, or working on self-esteem, identity, and self-compassion. My approach is gentle and collaborative, blending somatic therapy with creative, embodied practices. Together, we honour both pain and resilience, fostering balance, healing, and a deeper sense of connection.
You may feel weighed down by stress, grief, or self-doubt, and long for more ease, clarity, and connection in your daily life. In our work together, I offer a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where your story is welcomed and respected. Many of the people I see are navigating life transitions, healing from trauma, or working on self-esteem, identity, and self-compassion. My approach is gentle and collaborative, blending somatic therapy with creative, embodied practices. Together, we honour both pain and resilience, fostering balance, healing, and a deeper sense of connection.
Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed?
I am linda who has a rich cross-cultural background qualified counsellor, I bring a deep understanding of how culture, identity, belonging, and family expectations can shape our emotional wellbeing. I offering a warm, respectful, and non-judgemental space where you can slow down, be heard, and explore what is happening for you. Therapy with me is a place to gently look at who you are, what you need, and the emotions that may feel stuck or hard to express.
Together we can uncover your needs so you can feel equipped and empowered to make changes and find deep healing, inner contentment.
Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed?
I am linda who has a rich cross-cultural background qualified counsellor, I bring a deep understanding of how culture, identity, belonging, and family expectations can shape our emotional wellbeing. I offering a warm, respectful, and non-judgemental space where you can slow down, be heard, and explore what is happening for you. Therapy with me is a place to gently look at who you are, what you need, and the emotions that may feel stuck or hard to express.
Together we can uncover your needs so you can feel equipped and empowered to make changes and find deep healing, inner contentment.
Welcome. Seeking psychological help is a courageous step & I aim to make it accessible, understandable & effective for clients. Please feel free to email me. I am a Doctorate-level qualified Clinical Psychologist who can help with assessment & therapy for mental health needs, personal problems or relationship issues. I work in a transparent way, explaining what we do & why, to increase your insight & engagement in your therapy. A good “fit” between client & psychologist is key & I would encourage you to look until you find that. I offer evidence-based strategies & coping skills, or can advise self-help or other resources at times.
Welcome. Seeking psychological help is a courageous step & I aim to make it accessible, understandable & effective for clients. Please feel free to email me. I am a Doctorate-level qualified Clinical Psychologist who can help with assessment & therapy for mental health needs, personal problems or relationship issues. I work in a transparent way, explaining what we do & why, to increase your insight & engagement in your therapy. A good “fit” between client & psychologist is key & I would encourage you to look until you find that. I offer evidence-based strategies & coping skills, or can advise self-help or other resources at times.
I am a friendly and experienced counsellor, with 25+ years of experience in schools, University, and specialist residential treatment agencies. I am committed to helping clients build confidence and a life beyond their struggles. I draw from a number of therapeutic modalities which enables me to provide psychological counselling support for a broad range of concerns including mental health, mood and emotional regulation, disordered eating, complex trauma, and grief.
I am a friendly and experienced counsellor, with 25+ years of experience in schools, University, and specialist residential treatment agencies. I am committed to helping clients build confidence and a life beyond their struggles. I draw from a number of therapeutic modalities which enables me to provide psychological counselling support for a broad range of concerns including mental health, mood and emotional regulation, disordered eating, complex trauma, and grief.
I work with adults, adolescents, and children navigating life's difficult transitions or feeling overwhelmed by everyday demands. Whether it’s a young person facing school and developmental pressures, or an adult managing career shifts, the complexities of parenthood, or grief, life can easily feel out of balance. I offer a confidential space to slow down and make sense of it all. Together, we work to uncover inner strengths, clarify values, and find a practical, authentic path forward at a pace that fits your family's or your own unique life.
I work with adults, adolescents, and children navigating life's difficult transitions or feeling overwhelmed by everyday demands. Whether it’s a young person facing school and developmental pressures, or an adult managing career shifts, the complexities of parenthood, or grief, life can easily feel out of balance. I offer a confidential space to slow down and make sense of it all. Together, we work to uncover inner strengths, clarify values, and find a practical, authentic path forward at a pace that fits your family's or your own unique life.
Kia ora, my name is Toni (ko Toni toku ingoa). I have been a counsellor for the past 13 years and early in my journey discovered my philosophy of counselling - "to be seen". What does that mean? For you to be seen in the room, authentically as you are, in a space free of judgment and assumption, for myself to be seen in the room as I am, and for that which is not yet known, to be seen. I worked for 10 years at Familial Trust supporting families/individuals affected by addiction. I currently volunteer for FDS Aotearoa. I am also a qualified ACC counsellor working with survivors of sexual violence.
Kia ora, my name is Toni (ko Toni toku ingoa). I have been a counsellor for the past 13 years and early in my journey discovered my philosophy of counselling - "to be seen". What does that mean? For you to be seen in the room, authentically as you are, in a space free of judgment and assumption, for myself to be seen in the room as I am, and for that which is not yet known, to be seen. I worked for 10 years at Familial Trust supporting families/individuals affected by addiction. I currently volunteer for FDS Aotearoa. I am also a qualified ACC counsellor working with survivors of sexual violence.
Children and adults. Provide guidance on range of issues....educational advice, stress, relationships, anxiety,emotional distress, depression, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, life challenges, grief and obstacles, screening for ADHD. Previously trained psychologists at a NZ university. My major approach is centred on cognitive behavioural therapy but do utilize other approaches as required - hypnosis, solution focussed counselling, behavioural therapy, tapping, etc
Children and adults. Provide guidance on range of issues....educational advice, stress, relationships, anxiety,emotional distress, depression, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, life challenges, grief and obstacles, screening for ADHD. Previously trained psychologists at a NZ university. My major approach is centred on cognitive behavioural therapy but do utilize other approaches as required - hypnosis, solution focussed counselling, behavioural therapy, tapping, etc
I believe that it's my job to create a warm inviting space for my clients, a space where you are able to feel safe and be able to talk about what is important for you while exploring what you may need. I work from a Strength-Based Person-Centered approach and at times may utilize other modalities such as CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy), DBT, Narrative Therapy, Systemic Family Therapy, Trauma informed mindfulness, Art therapy using an Open Studio Therapy approach and Sand Tray Therapy. I also provide ACC Sensitive Claims Counselling.
I believe that it's my job to create a warm inviting space for my clients, a space where you are able to feel safe and be able to talk about what is important for you while exploring what you may need. I work from a Strength-Based Person-Centered approach and at times may utilize other modalities such as CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy), DBT, Narrative Therapy, Systemic Family Therapy, Trauma informed mindfulness, Art therapy using an Open Studio Therapy approach and Sand Tray Therapy. I also provide ACC Sensitive Claims Counselling.
Kia ora, I’m a counsellor with over 6 years’ experience, including working as a lead provider under ACC Sensitive Claims. I hold a Bachelor of Counselling from Laidlaw College and primarily offer individual therapy, with a strong focus on supporting survivors of trauma, as well as generally supporting adults with a variety of issues. I also particularly enjoy working with young adults navigating identity, relationships, and life direction in today’s complex world.
At the heart of my practice is a person-centred and narrative approach. I believe in the healing power of being deeply heard and understood.
Kia ora, I’m a counsellor with over 6 years’ experience, including working as a lead provider under ACC Sensitive Claims. I hold a Bachelor of Counselling from Laidlaw College and primarily offer individual therapy, with a strong focus on supporting survivors of trauma, as well as generally supporting adults with a variety of issues. I also particularly enjoy working with young adults navigating identity, relationships, and life direction in today’s complex world.
At the heart of my practice is a person-centred and narrative approach. I believe in the healing power of being deeply heard and understood.
Currently I have space for new clients in August and September. I work with adults, young people, and couples experiencing anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, trauma, neurodiversity, and life transitions. I enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and provide a warm, practical, and non-judgmental approach. I combine therapeutic support with skill-building strategies to help clients create meaningful change. If you are new to counselling, I aim to make the process approachable and supportive. Sliding-scale fees are available for those experiencing financial hardship.
Currently I have space for new clients in August and September. I work with adults, young people, and couples experiencing anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, trauma, neurodiversity, and life transitions. I enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and provide a warm, practical, and non-judgmental approach. I combine therapeutic support with skill-building strategies to help clients create meaningful change. If you are new to counselling, I aim to make the process approachable and supportive. Sliding-scale fees are available for those experiencing financial hardship.
Kia ora, I am a Christian male that is passionate about working with people shoulder to shoulder to create a shared and safe space where we can journey together through life. I know it can get hard at times for all of us. I love to build rapport and connection so trust can develop quickly. I like to contract honesty as part of the work we will do together so you can feel free to be you.
Remember you are the expert of your life and I am only the facilitator of change providing a space where you can feel comfortable and vulnerable enough to make the changes you want. I will hold onto hope on your behalf and notice it when it emerges.
Kia ora, I am a Christian male that is passionate about working with people shoulder to shoulder to create a shared and safe space where we can journey together through life. I know it can get hard at times for all of us. I love to build rapport and connection so trust can develop quickly. I like to contract honesty as part of the work we will do together so you can feel free to be you.
Remember you are the expert of your life and I am only the facilitator of change providing a space where you can feel comfortable and vulnerable enough to make the changes you want. I will hold onto hope on your behalf and notice it when it emerges.
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Christchurch
100+
Average cost per session
$150
Counsellors in Christchurch who prioritize treating:
| 89% | Anxiety |
| 75% | Depression |
| 73% | Relationship Issues |
| 73% | Stress |
| 72% | Self Esteem |
| 64% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 58% | Grief |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 100% | Southern Cross |
| 50% | Partners Life |
| 50% | AIA |
How Counsellors in Christchurch see their clients
| 70% | In Person and Online | |
| 30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 75% | Female | |
| 23% | Male | |
| 2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Christchurch?
Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postcode, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postcode into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Psychologists listed in the directory are registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board under the Health Practitioners Competency Assurance Act 2003 (HPCA Act). To be listed in the directory, psychotherapists must be registered through the Psychotherapists Board of Aotearoa New Zealand. Counsellors listed in the directory should have a minimum training of NZQF 6 or higher, and many are registered with a professional body, such as the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC).
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for counsellors in New Zealand, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for counsellors in New Zealand, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Psychologists, counsellors, and psychotherapists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and supervised, practical experience that enable them to do so in New Zealand.
Psychologists possess a minimum of a master's degree in Psychology and are registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board. Psychotherapists typically hold the equivalent of a Master's or Doctorate Degree in Psychotherapy, depending on their programme of study. Many psychotherapists have themselves undergone psychotherapy as part of their training. In order to be a member of NZAC, Counsellors must have a bachelor's or master's degree in Counselling and complete ongoing professional development and education.
Psychologists possess a minimum of a master's degree in Psychology and are registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board. Psychotherapists typically hold the equivalent of a Master's or Doctorate Degree in Psychotherapy, depending on their programme of study. Many psychotherapists have themselves undergone psychotherapy as part of their training. In order to be a member of NZAC, Counsellors must have a bachelor's or master's degree in Counselling and complete ongoing professional development and education.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, the cost of a therapy session in New Zealand could be between $100 and $200. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. To access these services you will need to be assessed and referred by your GP or family doctor. However, you will have limited choice regarding the specialist and the length of treatment that will be assigned to you. In addition, Community Mental Health and Addiction services are also available through your local District Health Board (DHB).
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. To access these services you will need to be assessed and referred by your GP or family doctor. However, you will have limited choice regarding the specialist and the length of treatment that will be assigned to you. In addition, Community Mental Health and Addiction services are also available through your local District Health Board (DHB).
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postcode.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Professionals registered with the Boards and/or who are members of professional organisations are obligated to uphold client confidentiality unless there is a legal reason that requires them to disclose information. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others, or a court order, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.