Therapists in Otago
Ross Palethorpe
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
Oamaru 9400
I work a lot with people who've never seen a counsellor before. I'm interested in who you are now, where you want to be, and work with you to get there. I live in a rural area, have lots of experience working with the rainbow and neurodivergent communities, and strive to build a trusting, supportive relationship with clients where we can get to the heart of your situation. I can help you find your strengths, collaborate on strategies that work for you, and listen when you need someone to really hear your story.
I work a lot with people who've never seen a counsellor before. I'm interested in who you are now, where you want to be, and work with you to get there. I live in a rural area, have lots of experience working with the rainbow and neurodivergent communities, and strive to build a trusting, supportive relationship with clients where we can get to the heart of your situation. I can help you find your strengths, collaborate on strategies that work for you, and listen when you need someone to really hear your story.
Online Therapists
Kirtideva Peruman
MA
Verified Verified
Timaru 7910 (Online Only)
I have specialised in various modalities such as CBT, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, etc.
My clients' ages range from 23 to 40 years old. They are experiencing anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, feeling lost, fearful of the future and don't know what the next best move is for them. They are seeking answers about their life purpose, figuring out their passions and how to grow on various levels such as personal, physical, spiritual, career, and relationships.
I have specialised in various modalities such as CBT, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, etc.
My clients' ages range from 23 to 40 years old. They are experiencing anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, feeling lost, fearful of the future and don't know what the next best move is for them. They are seeking answers about their life purpose, figuring out their passions and how to grow on various levels such as personal, physical, spiritual, career, and relationships.
Sue Parr
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
Auckland 1050
Working with me you can look forward to a counsellor who listens to you and works with you to move forward with your thoughts, feelings and life issues. I am a warm, empathetic and open-minded counsellor offering you a safe space to explore your concerns. We discuss the type of counselling that suits you best. We work together to explore your concerns and design strategies that will help you in areas that include: anxiety, self-esteem, grief and loss, emotional regulation, shame, identity, social and work stressors, as well as school, relationship, friendship, and family issues.
Working with me you can look forward to a counsellor who listens to you and works with you to move forward with your thoughts, feelings and life issues. I am a warm, empathetic and open-minded counsellor offering you a safe space to explore your concerns. We discuss the type of counselling that suits you best. We work together to explore your concerns and design strategies that will help you in areas that include: anxiety, self-esteem, grief and loss, emotional regulation, shame, identity, social and work stressors, as well as school, relationship, friendship, and family issues.
Safe Space with Shagoon
MA
Verified Verified
Auckland 1010
I am an enthusiastic, energetic and reliable individual with a wealth of experiences combined with appropriate qualifications who has been supporting individuals through general, complex and diverse issues they may experience. I believe in creative yet simple ways to bring out positive emotional, social and cognitive changes in people. I have a diverse and comprehensive educational background from the University of Adelaide and Delhi (India). I have current police checks, all my DCSI screenings. Providing E-Counselling to NRIs and Indians. In one sentence, encouraging self care, positivity and mental health is my life’s passion.
I am an enthusiastic, energetic and reliable individual with a wealth of experiences combined with appropriate qualifications who has been supporting individuals through general, complex and diverse issues they may experience. I believe in creative yet simple ways to bring out positive emotional, social and cognitive changes in people. I have a diverse and comprehensive educational background from the University of Adelaide and Delhi (India). I have current police checks, all my DCSI screenings. Providing E-Counselling to NRIs and Indians. In one sentence, encouraging self care, positivity and mental health is my life’s passion.
CBT.NZ
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Christchurch 8011
Hi, I'm Sarah Grigg. I am an experienced and empathetic therapist with a health background. I have completed a postgraduate diploma in CBT at the University of Canterbury. As a registered Physiotherapist for the past 25 years, I have worked with diverse populations, including chronic health, disability, pain, anxiety and breathing issues. I provide therapy for adults, children adolescents, and their families, focusing on cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Hi, I'm Sarah Grigg. I am an experienced and empathetic therapist with a health background. I have completed a postgraduate diploma in CBT at the University of Canterbury. As a registered Physiotherapist for the past 25 years, I have worked with diverse populations, including chronic health, disability, pain, anxiety and breathing issues. I provide therapy for adults, children adolescents, and their families, focusing on cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Mona Ghanbari
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Auckland 1052
I have expertise in conducting psychological assessments and providing treatment to children, adolescents, and young adults who are dealing with various challenges. This includes conditions such as Autism Spectrum Condition (ASD/C), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Emotional Dysregulation, Depression, Stress and Burnout, and Anxiety Disorders. My professional background includes working for the New Zealand Ministry of Education as an acute intervention provider, where I have experience assisting individuals who face behavioural and socio-emotional issues, as well as a range of mental health disorders.
I have expertise in conducting psychological assessments and providing treatment to children, adolescents, and young adults who are dealing with various challenges. This includes conditions such as Autism Spectrum Condition (ASD/C), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Emotional Dysregulation, Depression, Stress and Burnout, and Anxiety Disorders. My professional background includes working for the New Zealand Ministry of Education as an acute intervention provider, where I have experience assisting individuals who face behavioural and socio-emotional issues, as well as a range of mental health disorders.
Freedom-Life Counselling
Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
Verified Verified
Mount Maunganui 3116
Kia ora and welcome, My name is Michelle and I have been blessed to be Counselling since 2010. I am passionate about people, healing and supporting people to overcome the challenges they face in life.
Kia ora and welcome, My name is Michelle and I have been blessed to be Counselling since 2010. I am passionate about people, healing and supporting people to overcome the challenges they face in life.
Pretty Brown
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
Woodend 7610
Are you grappling with feelings of distress and a sense of displacement, yearning for a compassionate presence to share your burdens? You don't have to navigate these emotions alone; together, let's explore your journey. Having immigrated from Zambia, I intimately comprehend the challenges of acclimating to a foreign land. The process of integrating into a new culture can be daunting, with its unique set of obstacles. In my counseling approach, I deeply value the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi, namely Participation, Protection, and Partnership.
Are you grappling with feelings of distress and a sense of displacement, yearning for a compassionate presence to share your burdens? You don't have to navigate these emotions alone; together, let's explore your journey. Having immigrated from Zambia, I intimately comprehend the challenges of acclimating to a foreign land. The process of integrating into a new culture can be daunting, with its unique set of obstacles. In my counseling approach, I deeply value the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi, namely Participation, Protection, and Partnership.
David Sander
Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
Verified Verified
New Plymouth 4310 (Online Only)
As a dedicated and compassionate mental health counsellor I am committed to empowering individuals in navigating life's challenges. Believing in the transformative power of counselling interventions, I strive to provide direction, support, and foster well-being. I recognise the profound impact even small interventions can have, I am passionate about facilitating positive, lasting change in the lives of my clients.
As a dedicated and compassionate mental health counsellor I am committed to empowering individuals in navigating life's challenges. Believing in the transformative power of counselling interventions, I strive to provide direction, support, and foster well-being. I recognise the profound impact even small interventions can have, I am passionate about facilitating positive, lasting change in the lives of my clients.
Farah Elnashi
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Auckland 2104 (Online Only)
Im here to support you achieve your goals no matter what they are; from reducing anxiety, increasing motivation, working on selfcare and resolving trauma, to just being happier
Im here to support you achieve your goals no matter what they are; from reducing anxiety, increasing motivation, working on selfcare and resolving trauma, to just being happier
Barbara Torres
Counsellor, MSc, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
Auckland 1010
We all know how difficult it can be to start something new. Whether it’s your first time in therapy or not, it’s quite normal to feel a range of different emotions. With this said, sometimes leaning into the process and stepping out of your comfort zone can bring a sense of relief and broaden your perspective on what’s possible. At times, we can feel as if we are walking life’s path alone, but that doesn’t mean we have to. Therapy provides that additional support and guidance to uncover barriers, facilitate options, and choose a value driven direction in life.
We all know how difficult it can be to start something new. Whether it’s your first time in therapy or not, it’s quite normal to feel a range of different emotions. With this said, sometimes leaning into the process and stepping out of your comfort zone can bring a sense of relief and broaden your perspective on what’s possible. At times, we can feel as if we are walking life’s path alone, but that doesn’t mean we have to. Therapy provides that additional support and guidance to uncover barriers, facilitate options, and choose a value driven direction in life.
BeChange
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Auckland 0632
I'm Jenna Cunneen, a psychologist with 20+ years of experience specialising in behaviour change for families, children, adolescents, and teens. I have a wealth of experience working with diverse clients of all ages and needs, I tailor my support to meet the unique goals and circumstances. Whether my clients are facing mental health difficulties, navigating tough life transitions, or learning to understand themselves, I offer guidance and evidenced-based support to help them achieve their aspirations. Together, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, tapping into their strengths to cultivate resilience and foster positive change.
I'm Jenna Cunneen, a psychologist with 20+ years of experience specialising in behaviour change for families, children, adolescents, and teens. I have a wealth of experience working with diverse clients of all ages and needs, I tailor my support to meet the unique goals and circumstances. Whether my clients are facing mental health difficulties, navigating tough life transitions, or learning to understand themselves, I offer guidance and evidenced-based support to help them achieve their aspirations. Together, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, tapping into their strengths to cultivate resilience and foster positive change.
Auckland Mental Wellness Centre
Psychologist, MPsych, NZPsS Member
Verified Verified
Auckland 1051
Auckland Mental Wellness Centre has a team of registered psychologists. We aim to provide professional, and confidential psychology service for children, adolescents, adults, and families. Our psychologists are experienced and certified supervisors to provide Clinical Supervision and Training for professionals. Our service include general and specialised psychological assessment, diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of relational, psychological, emotional, social and behavioural issues. We also do assessment report to Court and Immigration NZ.
Auckland Mental Wellness Centre has a team of registered psychologists. We aim to provide professional, and confidential psychology service for children, adolescents, adults, and families. Our psychologists are experienced and certified supervisors to provide Clinical Supervision and Training for professionals. Our service include general and specialised psychological assessment, diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of relational, psychological, emotional, social and behavioural issues. We also do assessment report to Court and Immigration NZ.
Debbie Kenwright
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Red Beach 0932 (Online Only)
Most of my clients are parents who have concerns about their child's development, learning, behaviour or emotional regulation. These children often benefit from a Psycho-Education Assessment to help identify their underlying needs and make evidence-based recommendations for ways to meet those needs. Often there is a need to adapt the child's environment both at home and school and ways the adults respond to meeting the child's needs. Other times, there are opportunities for further strengthening and developing the child's skills across developmental domains. i.e., social skills, emotional regulation, language and motor skills.
Most of my clients are parents who have concerns about their child's development, learning, behaviour or emotional regulation. These children often benefit from a Psycho-Education Assessment to help identify their underlying needs and make evidence-based recommendations for ways to meet those needs. Often there is a need to adapt the child's environment both at home and school and ways the adults respond to meeting the child's needs. Other times, there are opportunities for further strengthening and developing the child's skills across developmental domains. i.e., social skills, emotional regulation, language and motor skills.
Wendy Wang
Counsellor, MA, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
Auckland 0629
My name is Naifang Wang. You can call me Wendy. I’m from Shanghai in China. I have been living in Auckland since 2017. I completed a Graduate Diploma in Arts in Psychology at Massey University in 2021. I also hold an NZQA accredited level 9 Master’s Degree in mental health. My experience as a psychological counselor involves individuals, couples, families and children. If you have any problems with emotional distress, problem solving, personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family problem, children's development, repetive dream work, etc., please contact me.
My name is Naifang Wang. You can call me Wendy. I’m from Shanghai in China. I have been living in Auckland since 2017. I completed a Graduate Diploma in Arts in Psychology at Massey University in 2021. I also hold an NZQA accredited level 9 Master’s Degree in mental health. My experience as a psychological counselor involves individuals, couples, families and children. If you have any problems with emotional distress, problem solving, personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family problem, children's development, repetive dream work, etc., please contact me.
Everwell Therapy
Counsellor, MA, MNZAC
Verified Verified
Christchurch 8023
I have provided therapy for children, teenagers, and adults with 25+ years of experience in schools, University, and specialist residential treatment agencies. I draw from a number of therapeutic modalities that enables me to provide psychological and counselling support for a broad range of concerns including mental health, mood and emotional regulation, disordered eating, complex trauma, and grief.
I have provided therapy for children, teenagers, and adults with 25+ years of experience in schools, University, and specialist residential treatment agencies. I draw from a number of therapeutic modalities that enables me to provide psychological and counselling support for a broad range of concerns including mental health, mood and emotional regulation, disordered eating, complex trauma, and grief.
Kiera Elizabeth Allan
Counsellor, MNZAC
Verified Verified
Auckland 0632 (Online Only)
I have a wide range of experience with children, teens, and young adults. I help build on resilience/coping strategies for children and young people dealing with anxiety, depression, abuse, phobias and other complex needs and offer support and reassurance to their families/whanau .I have over six years experience of in counselling and helping children in a community setting and schools around New Zealand and Wales. I have experience helping people who have struggled with COVID-19 and specialised trauma.
I have a wide range of experience with children, teens, and young adults. I help build on resilience/coping strategies for children and young people dealing with anxiety, depression, abuse, phobias and other complex needs and offer support and reassurance to their families/whanau .I have over six years experience of in counselling and helping children in a community setting and schools around New Zealand and Wales. I have experience helping people who have struggled with COVID-19 and specialised trauma.
Toni Maree Kenyon
Counsellor, MNZAC
Verified Verified
Christchurch 8023
Kia ora, my name is Toni (ko Toni toku ingoa). I have been a counsellor for the past 12 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/individual 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 12 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/individual affected by addiction. I currently volunteer for FDS Aotearoa. I am also a qualified ACC counsellor working with survivors of sexual violence.
Marcia Sasano
Psychologist, MSc
Verified Verified
Auckland 1021
I have a lifelong interest in the intrinsic relations among psychological factors, behaviour, and physical health and illness. I have special training in behavioural medicine and am passionate about helping individuals maintain wellness and successfully cope with life challenges.
I have a lifelong interest in the intrinsic relations among psychological factors, behaviour, and physical health and illness. I have special training in behavioural medicine and am passionate about helping individuals maintain wellness and successfully cope with life challenges.
Melanie Woodham
Psychologist, MPsych
Verified Verified
Auckland 0604
I am a Clinical Psychologist and have been registered since 1999. My specialist area is working with children, adolescents and parents/families using a wide range of therapeutic modalities. My profile information details my assessment and treatment approaches.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and have been registered since 1999. My specialist area is working with children, adolescents and parents/families using a wide range of therapeutic modalities. My profile information details my assessment and treatment approaches.
See more therapy options for Otago
Motivational Interviewing Counsellors
How does motivational interviewing work?
Motivational interviewing aims to uncover a person’s internal motivation to change their life. Toward this end, the therapist listens, empathises, and collaborates with the client based on their perspective; the therapist doesn’t adhere to a predetermined plan for change or impose their viewpoint on the client. Discovering an individual’s most important reasons for change, and guiding them to achieve those changes, can empower people to shift from ambivalence to action.
Is motivational interviewing evidence-based?
Yes, research shows that motivational interviewing can help treat alcohol and substance use — and in different ways such as reducing drinking, reducing resistance, and increasing the likelihood of staying in treatment. Motivational interviewing has also been shown to help people lose weight, adhere to medication regimens, improve diet for those with Type II diabetes, and improve healthy behaviours in children.
How long does motivational interviewing last?
Motivational interviewing is a short-term therapy that can last just one or two sessions. In some cases, motivational interviewing may be used in conjunction with longer-term therapies, but for most people, motivational interviewing is a brief intervention that aims to help patients understand their personal, specific, and internal reasons for changing their life.
What differentiates motivational interviewing from person-centered therapy?
In person-centered therapy, the individual is in the driver’s seat of the treatment process, creating space for them to trust their instincts and arrive at their own solutions. The two approaches are similar because motivational interviewing is also client-centered; however, person-centered therapy is more open-ended while motivational interviewing is somewhat more structured; the goal is to change, and the therapist helps the client specifically discover their internal motivations to modify their behaviour.