Humanistic Therapists in Palmerston North

I specialise in supporting clients to improve well-being on a mental, physical, emotional and spiritual level and cultivate a positive and healthy relationship with themselves and others. Oftentimes my clients are navigating stressful life events, negative thoughts, habits or patterns that aren't serving them, fearful thinking and/or low self-esteem. I hold a safe space for each of my clients and empower them to welcome all thoughts, feelings, emotions, sensations as they are, gently with no judgement. I also support my clients to discover their strengths, passions and purpose and find meaning, joy and happiness in their lives.

I am an authentic and empathic therapist using a person-centered and strengths-based approach, my work is eclectic; weaving together various models to meet need.

Clients offer an array of personal difficulties, seeking insight to issues that are consuming their normally functional life. I have treated clients on a wide spectrum of issues, ranging from mental, physical, emotional, cultural and spiritual ailments. As we uncover a client's personal narrative, their initial needs may change, yet the result remains the same, to find a sense of security and hope in their personal life.

I offer in person counselling in Kāpiti or online counselling throughout New Zealand to adults and adolescents. I am flexible in my approach, which is individualised for you depending on your current needs. I work in a client centred, collaborative way where we meet together as equals working to satisfy the outcome that you desire, respecting your values, beliefs and uniqueness. We will work together and at a pace that works for you enabling you to heal and move forward to your wholeness - of what is already there. I believe that we can find solutions to your difficulties using the strength and resources that you have within you.

We all go through difficult times in our lives when we might feel unfulfilled, overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, depressed, dealing with loss, facing a major life-change, or struggling with relationship dynamics. Sometimes these feelings are accompanied by physical symptoms such as muscle tension, headaches, sleep disturbances, or fatigue. Counselling provides a safe and supportive space to gain insights into your emotional and behavioural patterns and leads you to self-discovery, improved relationships, and a more fulfilling life.

I provide a warm empathetic non-judgemental space for my clients. I work with clients through their problems, and explore their needs and perspectives. I am aware that each client is different and individual, and because of that I work alongside the you to explore the best ways forward for you. I am very client centred in my counselling, within this I will use different ways of working with you, these can include Person Centred Therapy and approaches, Narrative Therapy, ACT, Solution Focused therapy, mindfulness and grounding techniques and Motivational Interviewing.

Kia ora, Ni sa Bula Vinaka and Namaste, I’m Ashley. I use an anti-oppressive, holistic, trauma-informed lens centered around those most impacted by patriarchy, sexism, misogyny, and colonization. I support women, femmes, and non-binary people of color through identity struggles, cultural assimilation, and trauma including racial, intergenerational, and sexual. I use Indigenous wellness models and trauma-informed yoga to foster healing and provide strategies for nervous system regulation & body reconnection. My focus is on easing anxiety, depression, sensory overwhelm, and a deeper understanding for highly sensitive people.

How lovely to find me, I’m Specialist Therapist Joy, and I’ve been in the industry for a decade now. I invest a lot into research, and into integrative healthcare, and am Harvard Medical School Educated. Distress doesn’t discriminate, and mental health exists for everyone. I’ve been a client and clinician in both public and private health, and both have virtues and vices, however I thrive in the diversity of being Internationally Licensed. I invest excellence back into my clients, and am highly empathic. Fascinated by how and why, and if you’re feeling scared to reach out-I felt scared when I needed help too. Quality care provided!

I have been working in the areas of mental health, addictions, family harm, and sexual violence since 2010. I have been operating a successful private practice in the Hawkes Bay area since 2019.