Therapists in Christchurch

I specialize in person centered counselling and narrative therapy, you are central to our work and solutions are tailored to your needs.
I specialize in person centered counselling and narrative therapy, you are central to our work and solutions are tailored to your needs.

Kia ora, my name is Jesse Nelson. I am 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, my name is Jesse Nelson. I am 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.

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.

I genuinely enjoy working with people and provide a safe space, so you can tell me whatever you need to without fear of judgment. It's a pretty special privilege to be able to work with people on their mental health and wellbeing. Together, we will develop a shared understanding of your challenges, strengths and areas you wish to see change in. We will then use psychological science and evidence-based therapy to enhance your skills to help you on your way. As a Clinical Psychologist I can provide diagnosis if appropriate.
I genuinely enjoy working with people and provide a safe space, so you can tell me whatever you need to without fear of judgment. It's a pretty special privilege to be able to work with people on their mental health and wellbeing. Together, we will develop a shared understanding of your challenges, strengths and areas you wish to see change in. We will then use psychological science and evidence-based therapy to enhance your skills to help you on your way. As a Clinical Psychologist I can provide diagnosis if appropriate.

I'm a Counselling psychologist, who holds a culturally informed awareness of persons. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process and guides clients to increase self-awareness, gain new perspectives, decrease symptoms, and increase personal strengths to have a more meaningful life experience. With experience in anxiety, depression, behavioural issues, suicide prevention, crisis management, couple therapy, child-centered play therapy, transitioning, self-identity, grief and loss, relationships and emotional regulation. I am empathic in nature and believe in the good in humanity.
I'm a Counselling psychologist, who holds a culturally informed awareness of persons. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process and guides clients to increase self-awareness, gain new perspectives, decrease symptoms, and increase personal strengths to have a more meaningful life experience. With experience in anxiety, depression, behavioural issues, suicide prevention, crisis management, couple therapy, child-centered play therapy, transitioning, self-identity, grief and loss, relationships and emotional regulation. I am empathic in nature and believe in the good in humanity.

David Gaze
Counsellor, NZCCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Christchurch 8083
Waitlist for new clients
I offer a free first counselling session (60 min). I am open to helping anyone, however I have a particular interest in helping those who have been affected by traumatic experience such as bullying, earthquakes, child abuse, neglect etc. These experiences can have limiting effects on our lives, and cause us immense suffering on an ongoing basis in the present. I can recognize that pain, and help those affected to move toward permanent healing, relief, and resolution. Although the main approaches I use are IFS and skills from EMDR, I also use Flash, which can resolve specific memories quickly and safely, early in treatment.
I offer a free first counselling session (60 min). I am open to helping anyone, however I have a particular interest in helping those who have been affected by traumatic experience such as bullying, earthquakes, child abuse, neglect etc. These experiences can have limiting effects on our lives, and cause us immense suffering on an ongoing basis in the present. I can recognize that pain, and help those affected to move toward permanent healing, relief, and resolution. Although the main approaches I use are IFS and skills from EMDR, I also use Flash, which can resolve specific memories quickly and safely, early in treatment.

Hello, I’m John Melling and I’m a counsellor, a philosopher, and a gamer! I am passionate about supporting people managing anxiety and depression. Specialising in solution-focused and philosophical counselling, I also love to support fellow gamers that want to find a better balance between the many benefits of gaming and moving towards the future they desire.
Hello, I’m John Melling and I’m a counsellor, a philosopher, and a gamer! I am passionate about supporting people managing anxiety and depression. Specialising in solution-focused and philosophical counselling, I also love to support fellow gamers that want to find a better balance between the many benefits of gaming and moving towards the future they desire.
I believe that within all of us there are strengths and capabilities that we can access and grow to help us to cope with the challenges that modern daily life can bring. At times we can access these skills ourselves or with the support of loved ones, however sometimes, when that feels too hard a task, seeking the support of a professional can be crucial to regaining overall wellbeing. I am a registered psychologist originally from the UK and have been living in New Zealand since 2006.
I believe that within all of us there are strengths and capabilities that we can access and grow to help us to cope with the challenges that modern daily life can bring. At times we can access these skills ourselves or with the support of loved ones, however sometimes, when that feels too hard a task, seeking the support of a professional can be crucial to regaining overall wellbeing. I am a registered psychologist originally from the UK and have been living in New Zealand since 2006.

We all face troubles at some time in our lives – with our work, relationships, family, or with ourselves – and finding a mental health professional who is relatable can be difficult.
Lewis has helped people with overcoming depression, relationship issues, alcohol and other drug addiction, problem gambling, challenges with sexual identity and those struggling with career and life direction.
We all face troubles at some time in our lives – with our work, relationships, family, or with ourselves – and finding a mental health professional who is relatable can be difficult.
Lewis has helped people with overcoming depression, relationship issues, alcohol and other drug addiction, problem gambling, challenges with sexual identity and those struggling with career and life direction.

Do you find your thoughts overwhelming you? Are these thoughts constantly on your mind keeping you from living your life? Through life's obstacles and challenges, there is a story. You deserved to be heard for yourself or your relationship with your loved ones. Each journey with a client is unique. I am here to listen if you are experiencing anxiety, stress, anger or depression. When past traumas or present issues create road bumps in your life, I can work collaboratively to help you make sense of it all.
Do you find your thoughts overwhelming you? Are these thoughts constantly on your mind keeping you from living your life? Through life's obstacles and challenges, there is a story. You deserved to be heard for yourself or your relationship with your loved ones. Each journey with a client is unique. I am here to listen if you are experiencing anxiety, stress, anger or depression. When past traumas or present issues create road bumps in your life, I can work collaboratively to help you make sense of it all.

Tim Robinson - Counsellor- men's wellbeing/anxiety
Counsellor, MPsych, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have a particular interest in anxiety, especially social anxiety. Other areas of interest include: grief, trauma, relationship issues, career aspirations/transitions, anxiety disorders (in general) and men's mental health. I feel at times men get left "behind" in the health system and do not utilise services as well as they could so I'm keen to promote support around men's mental health and have done academic research in this area.
I have a particular interest in anxiety, especially social anxiety. Other areas of interest include: grief, trauma, relationship issues, career aspirations/transitions, anxiety disorders (in general) and men's mental health. I feel at times men get left "behind" in the health system and do not utilise services as well as they could so I'm keen to promote support around men's mental health and have done academic research in this area.
Meet Our Counsellors

I am a family therapist and psychologist specialising in child, adolescent and family issues. I also do couple work. I have worked in this area for more than 20 years. I also have specific skills in eating disorders, anxiety and depression, attachment and family relationships. I offer supervision to Mental health and other professionals.
I am a family therapist and psychologist specialising in child, adolescent and family issues. I also do couple work. I have worked in this area for more than 20 years. I also have specific skills in eating disorders, anxiety and depression, attachment and family relationships. I offer supervision to Mental health and other professionals.

I am a fully-qualified registered counsellor based in Christchurch, Rolleston, and online. I have 12 years of full-time private practice experience. My counselling style is warm, interactive, exploratory, and methodical.
I am a fully-qualified registered counsellor based in Christchurch, Rolleston, and online. I have 12 years of full-time private practice experience. My counselling style is warm, interactive, exploratory, and methodical.

For me, counselling is all about relationships. My aim is to provide a warm, non judgemental environment where your voice is heard and validated. I believe you are the expert in your own life and my role is to help you facilitate the change you are wanting. I utilise a strengths based, validating approach to my counselling.
For me, counselling is all about relationships. My aim is to provide a warm, non judgemental environment where your voice is heard and validated. I believe you are the expert in your own life and my role is to help you facilitate the change you are wanting. I utilise a strengths based, validating approach to my counselling.

I can offer you a warm, safe, non-judgmental space so that you can explore your thoughts and feelings and examine the things in your life that have and are affecting you. By working in partnership, we can clear a path towards a more fulfilling, rich life.
I enjoy working with people, and supporting them in whatever journey they may be on. I feel it is a great privilege to have people share their stories with me.
I can offer you a warm, safe, non-judgmental space so that you can explore your thoughts and feelings and examine the things in your life that have and are affecting you. By working in partnership, we can clear a path towards a more fulfilling, rich life.
I enjoy working with people, and supporting them in whatever journey they may be on. I feel it is a great privilege to have people share their stories with me.

Eva Jones | Whakaata Counselling
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Christchurch 8011
Specialising in both Somatic and Narrative Therapy, I enjoy a diverse range of work. However, I work especially well with adult survivors of childhood trauma, as well as those navigating active grief and bereavement.
It’s a privilege to support individuals who feel caught in painful relational patterns or who are struggling with emotional overwhelm, disconnection from their body, disruptive coping habits, or the weight of their past.
My approach is shaped by both clinical training and lived experience. I offer a focused & therapeutic space where nothing is too messy and we move toward restoration that feels real and lasting.
Specialising in both Somatic and Narrative Therapy, I enjoy a diverse range of work. However, I work especially well with adult survivors of childhood trauma, as well as those navigating active grief and bereavement.
It’s a privilege to support individuals who feel caught in painful relational patterns or who are struggling with emotional overwhelm, disconnection from their body, disruptive coping habits, or the weight of their past.
My approach is shaped by both clinical training and lived experience. I offer a focused & therapeutic space where nothing is too messy and we move toward restoration that feels real and lasting.

Kate Todd Coaching and Counselling
Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Christchurch 8053
I am a Solution Focused trained counsellor which means we will look at how your life is now, what changes you would like to make, what is holding you back from that and learning your strengths to help you to move forward. We live in busy and emotionally demanding times and my hope is to provide you with some space to focus on your needs away from the pressure of life and work. I welcome working with clients from all walks of life. We will work together to figure out how you would like your life to be, identify the roadblocks and look at ways for you to make positive changes in your life.
I am a Solution Focused trained counsellor which means we will look at how your life is now, what changes you would like to make, what is holding you back from that and learning your strengths to help you to move forward. We live in busy and emotionally demanding times and my hope is to provide you with some space to focus on your needs away from the pressure of life and work. I welcome working with clients from all walks of life. We will work together to figure out how you would like your life to be, identify the roadblocks and look at ways for you to make positive changes in your life.

Kia ora, I’m Nancy.
Originally from Egypt, I’ve called New Zealand home for the past 17 years, where I live with my wonderful Kiwi family. I’m passionate about supporting individuals who are looking to make positive changes in their lives—whether it's breaking free from old patterns or overcoming trauma that might be holding you back.
Kia ora, I’m Nancy.
Originally from Egypt, I’ve called New Zealand home for the past 17 years, where I live with my wonderful Kiwi family. I’m passionate about supporting individuals who are looking to make positive changes in their lives—whether it's breaking free from old patterns or overcoming trauma that might be holding you back.

Kia ora,
I am Jess Lepou, a 26-year-old counsellor living in Christchurch New Zealand. I have a passion to journey with others by creating a safe space where people feel valued and listened to.
Kia ora,
I am Jess Lepou, a 26-year-old counsellor living in Christchurch New Zealand. I have a passion to journey with others by creating a safe space where people feel valued and listened to.

As a dedicated and compassionate counselor, my practice is grounded in Person-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I believe that every individual holds the capacity for growth, healing, and transformation when provided with the right support and a safe, non-judgmental space.
As a dedicated and compassionate counselor, my practice is grounded in Person-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I believe that every individual holds the capacity for growth, healing, and transformation when provided with the right support and a safe, non-judgmental space.
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Christchurch
100+
Average cost per session
$149
Counsellors in Christchurch who prioritize treating:
87% | Anxiety |
72% | Depression |
71% | Stress |
70% | Self Esteem |
64% | Relationship Issues |
61% | Trauma and PTSD |
55% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
60% | Southern Cross |
33% | Sovereign Health |
33% | AIA |
How Counsellors in Christchurch see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
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.