Anxiety Therapists in Dunedin

Photo of Ben Burggraaf, Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Ben Burggraaf
Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Online Only
Together, we'll unpack the patterns behind anxiety, stress, or low self-worth.
Hey, I'm Ben – a counsellor who genuinely enjoys helping people reconnect with who they are and what matters most. Whether you're stuck in survival mode, seeking purpose, or craving more authentic relationships – I can help. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can be yourself. Clients often tell me they feel heard, understood, and supported – with insights coming as early as our first conversation. I believe counselling can be open and honest, and still leave room for lightness, laughter, and real connection.
Together, we'll unpack the patterns behind anxiety, stress, or low self-worth.
Hey, I'm Ben – a counsellor who genuinely enjoys helping people reconnect with who they are and what matters most. Whether you're stuck in survival mode, seeking purpose, or craving more authentic relationships – I can help. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can be yourself. Clients often tell me they feel heard, understood, and supported – with insights coming as early as our first conversation. I believe counselling can be open and honest, and still leave room for lightness, laughter, and real connection.
0800 627 003 x98 View 0800 627 003 x98
Photo of Nat Phillips | Bright Minds Counselling, Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Nat Phillips | Bright Minds Counselling
Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Online Only
I can support you to navigate a wide range of challenges, although I do specialise in: Self-compassion & self-esteem; LGBTQ+ affirming therapy; managing anxiety and panic attacks; body image / body acceptance; boundary setting and communication skills; self-discovery after autism diagnosis in adulthood.
Nau mai, haere mai Kia ora and welcome... My name is Nat, and I am an experienced counsellor working individually with adolescents and adults throughout Aotearoa. I offer online counselling sessions for ages 13+.  My approach is person-centered and pluralistic – this means I’ll work collaboratively with you to set therapeutic goals that are meaningful to you personally. I’ll pull from a wide range of counselling theories and modalities and will tailor our sessions to ensure they’re as unique as you are. My aim is always to uplift and empower you as we co-navigate your journey to wellbeing.
I can support you to navigate a wide range of challenges, although I do specialise in: Self-compassion & self-esteem; LGBTQ+ affirming therapy; managing anxiety and panic attacks; body image / body acceptance; boundary setting and communication skills; self-discovery after autism diagnosis in adulthood.
Nau mai, haere mai Kia ora and welcome... My name is Nat, and I am an experienced counsellor working individually with adolescents and adults throughout Aotearoa. I offer online counselling sessions for ages 13+.  My approach is person-centered and pluralistic – this means I’ll work collaboratively with you to set therapeutic goals that are meaningful to you personally. I’ll pull from a wide range of counselling theories and modalities and will tailor our sessions to ensure they’re as unique as you are. My aim is always to uplift and empower you as we co-navigate your journey to wellbeing.
View
Photo of Becky Bradley, Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Becky Bradley
Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Serves Area
I support clients with varying issues, from anxiety, relationship difficulties and body image to disordered eating and OCD.
If you find yourself struggling with low self-esteem, caught in unhelpful patterns, experiencing obsessive/intrusive thoughts, feeling like food controls you or feeling disconnected from your body, know that there is a path to improving your life and healing. I am here to help provide the support you need to grow and heal in order to reach your goals.
I support clients with varying issues, from anxiety, relationship difficulties and body image to disordered eating and OCD.
If you find yourself struggling with low self-esteem, caught in unhelpful patterns, experiencing obsessive/intrusive thoughts, feeling like food controls you or feeling disconnected from your body, know that there is a path to improving your life and healing. I am here to help provide the support you need to grow and heal in order to reach your goals.
0800 447 359 x44 View 0800 447 359 x44
Photo of Vicki Maree Fowler, Psychologist, PhD, NZPsS Member
Vicki Maree Fowler
Psychologist, PhD, NZPsS Member
Serves Area
My Special Clients are Clients seeking Help for Anxiety/Depression, Stress, Work & Relationship Difficulties, Alcohol, Gambling, Grief/Bereavement & Other Issues.
I am a Registered Psychologist (New Zealand) with over 30 years experience in working with a variety of clients from many different Nationalities and Ethnicities using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Data-Driven approaches that provide results for individuals.
My Special Clients are Clients seeking Help for Anxiety/Depression, Stress, Work & Relationship Difficulties, Alcohol, Gambling, Grief/Bereavement & Other Issues.
I am a Registered Psychologist (New Zealand) with over 30 years experience in working with a variety of clients from many different Nationalities and Ethnicities using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Data-Driven approaches that provide results for individuals.
021 415 588 View 021 415 588
Photo of Paola Montanaro, Counsellor, MPsych, MNZAC
Paola Montanaro
Counsellor, MPsych, MNZAC
Serves Area
Clients report that they experience tangible results as enhanced self-esteem and trust, reduced severity of symptoms as anxiety, depression, grief or mental confusion, and the restoring of their capacity for secure, and organized relationships, among others.
I'm an Italian therapist and I offer supervision for professionals and trauma specialised therapy for adults and couples. I have worked as a psychologist and a psychotherapist during the last 20 years in six countries and in four languages. In NZ I offer my services as a registered Counsellor and an EMDR certified therapist.
Clients report that they experience tangible results as enhanced self-esteem and trust, reduced severity of symptoms as anxiety, depression, grief or mental confusion, and the restoring of their capacity for secure, and organized relationships, among others.
I'm an Italian therapist and I offer supervision for professionals and trauma specialised therapy for adults and couples. I have worked as a psychologist and a psychotherapist during the last 20 years in six countries and in four languages. In NZ I offer my services as a registered Counsellor and an EMDR certified therapist.
0800 627 050 x36 View 0800 627 050 x36
Photo of Frank Marinthe
Frank Marinthe
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you suffering from anxiety related to personal or professional challenges?
The benefits of Co-Active Life Coaching are: -Find awareness around issues you may have. -Define personal goals you may want to achieve. -Find the tools/action steps needed for you to enjoy positive, sustainable change in your life.
Are you suffering from anxiety related to personal or professional challenges?
The benefits of Co-Active Life Coaching are: -Find awareness around issues you may have. -Define personal goals you may want to achieve. -Find the tools/action steps needed for you to enjoy positive, sustainable change in your life.
0800 627 004 x87 View 0800 627 004 x87
Photo of Kristina Grace
Kristina Grace
Verified Verified
Online Only
Perhaps you are overwhelmed with depression or anxiety, feel helpless or hopeless and you want to get yourself back again - enjoy life?
I have helped people to identify what is holding them back in their life and move beyond it, set achievable goals, and experience a more fulfilling life. Specialties: Mood Disorders, ADHD, Autism, Mental Health, Trauma, Anxiety-Management, Dynamics in Relationships/Conflict, Religious or Spiritual Trauma, Self-Esteem, Goal-setting.
Perhaps you are overwhelmed with depression or anxiety, feel helpless or hopeless and you want to get yourself back again - enjoy life?
I have helped people to identify what is holding them back in their life and move beyond it, set achievable goals, and experience a more fulfilling life. Specialties: Mood Disorders, ADHD, Autism, Mental Health, Trauma, Anxiety-Management, Dynamics in Relationships/Conflict, Religious or Spiritual Trauma, Self-Esteem, Goal-setting.
0800 627 050 x94 View 0800 627 050 x94
Photo of Yan Neo Lee - Mind'sEye Psychotherapy, Counsellor
Mind'sEye Psychotherapy
Counsellor
1 Endorsed
Dunedin 9016
As a Nurse Therapist (Psychotherapist Trainee), I have trained in different therapeutic modalities to work with a wide range of clients of various age groups who struggle with complex trauma, addictions, depression, anxiety, sexuality and sexual trauma
within a variety of mental health services. I have always worked in a relational manner as I believe that mutually satisfying relationships with others are paramount for one’s emotional well-being.
As a Nurse Therapist (Psychotherapist Trainee), I have trained in different therapeutic modalities to work with a wide range of clients of various age groups who struggle with complex trauma, addictions, depression, anxiety, sexuality and sexual trauma
within a variety of mental health services. I have always worked in a relational manner as I believe that mutually satisfying relationships with others are paramount for one’s emotional well-being.
0800 447 359 x74 View 0800 447 359 x74
Photo of Jacqueline Lucy Tangney, Counsellor, MNZAC
Jacqueline Lucy Tangney
Counsellor, MNZAC
Dunedin 9035
My areas of special interest include anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, relationship issues, boundaries setting, parenting, grief and loss and trauma.
I am an eclectic counsellor drawing on many models including ACT, art therapy, polyvagal theory, Mindfulness and Solution Focused Therapy. Finding what connects with the clients needs is my focus.
My areas of special interest include anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, relationship issues, boundaries setting, parenting, grief and loss and trauma.
I am an eclectic counsellor drawing on many models including ACT, art therapy, polyvagal theory, Mindfulness and Solution Focused Therapy. Finding what connects with the clients needs is my focus.
0800 468 212 x30 View 0800 468 212 x30
Photo of Caitlin Fleming - The Wren's Nest
The Wren's Nest
Verified Verified
Dunedin 9011
Waitlist for new clients
, trauma, grief, feeling stuck or at a crossroads in your life, disordered eating, depression, anxiety, difficulty in relationships, or sexuality.
I am currently undergoing training in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Indigenous Psychotherapy.
, trauma, grief, feeling stuck or at a crossroads in your life, disordered eating, depression, anxiety, difficulty in relationships, or sexuality.
I am currently undergoing training in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Indigenous Psychotherapy.
View
Photo of Regina Webb, Counsellor
Regina Webb
Counsellor
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am here to listen if you are experiencing anxiety, stress, anger or depression.
I support individuals and couples with depression, trauma, PTSD, GAD, addiction, anger, bereavement, OCD, relationship issues, gambling and porn addiction, stress, family conflict, and marital concerns. I offer a compassionate, tailored approach focused on coping skills and growth.
I am here to listen if you are experiencing anxiety, stress, anger or depression.
I support individuals and couples with depression, trauma, PTSD, GAD, addiction, anger, bereavement, OCD, relationship issues, gambling and porn addiction, stress, family conflict, and marital concerns. I offer a compassionate, tailored approach focused on coping skills and growth.
0800 627 024 x46 View 0800 627 024 x46
Photo of Tersia Delene Woodenberg - Soulcheck Holistic Therapy, MCouns
Soulcheck Holistic Therapy
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Whether you need support in individual counselling, couples therapy, men's health, anxiety, depression, anger management, stress, trauma, emotional and psychological abuse, low self-esteem, personal development, grief and loss, I offer a warm, inclusive, safe, non-judgmental environment for you.
My passion and purpose? To empower you to live your best Life. Acknowledging the principle that humans are interdependent beings, we understand that isolation is not sustainable; we rely on healthy relationships, community, connection and empathy for our well-being. Recognising that shifts in our circumstances, whether good or bad, can affect our, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. My holistic approach goes beyond symptom management to identify and address the root causes of your challenge. "Empowering you with holistic, client-centered strategies to achieve health, well-being, and inner healing for yourself.
Whether you need support in individual counselling, couples therapy, men's health, anxiety, depression, anger management, stress, trauma, emotional and psychological abuse, low self-esteem, personal development, grief and loss, I offer a warm, inclusive, safe, non-judgmental environment for you.
My passion and purpose? To empower you to live your best Life. Acknowledging the principle that humans are interdependent beings, we understand that isolation is not sustainable; we rely on healthy relationships, community, connection and empathy for our well-being. Recognising that shifts in our circumstances, whether good or bad, can affect our, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. My holistic approach goes beyond symptom management to identify and address the root causes of your challenge. "Empowering you with holistic, client-centered strategies to achieve health, well-being, and inner healing for yourself.
0800 468 212 x74 View 0800 468 212 x74
Photo of Glen Booth - Karearea Counselling, Counsellor, MNZCCA
Karearea Counselling
Counsellor, MNZCCA
Serves Area
You have befriended your anxious part, your inner critic, your angry part, and lets just imagine that you are grateful for their hard work now that you understand why they do what they do.
I'm a fully qualified therapist in private practice with extensive training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) . I offer private therapy, and I'm registered to supply ACC, Southern Cross Wellness, Gumboot Friday, Givenwell and WINZ . My approach is non pathologizing, helping you make sense of your symptoms and behaviours. I build a safe container for you to explore why unwanted patterns continue to show up in your life, and how these patterns can be transformed. The hope I can offer is my trust in your ability to heal, in can take time but with patients and persistence, you can return home to your true Self
You have befriended your anxious part, your inner critic, your angry part, and lets just imagine that you are grateful for their hard work now that you understand why they do what they do.
I'm a fully qualified therapist in private practice with extensive training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) . I offer private therapy, and I'm registered to supply ACC, Southern Cross Wellness, Gumboot Friday, Givenwell and WINZ . My approach is non pathologizing, helping you make sense of your symptoms and behaviours. I build a safe container for you to explore why unwanted patterns continue to show up in your life, and how these patterns can be transformed. The hope I can offer is my trust in your ability to heal, in can take time but with patients and persistence, you can return home to your true Self
0800 627 024 x34 View 0800 627 024 x34
Photo of Dan Ford - The Better Sleep Clinic, Psychologist, MA
The Better Sleep Clinic
Psychologist, MA
Online Only
The thought of going to bed makes you worry.
I specialise in treating insomnia and sleep difficulties. Insomnia is not a mental health disorder per se. It is a problem with the human sleep system. Insomnia doesn't respond to standard psychotherapy and requires specialist therapy using CBT-I. I am one of the few CBT-I trained psychologists in NZ.
The thought of going to bed makes you worry.
I specialise in treating insomnia and sleep difficulties. Insomnia is not a mental health disorder per se. It is a problem with the human sleep system. Insomnia doesn't respond to standard psychotherapy and requires specialist therapy using CBT-I. I am one of the few CBT-I trained psychologists in NZ.
0800 627 050 x58 View 0800 627 050 x58
Photo of Elif Todd, Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Elif Todd
Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Serves Area
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.
My strong academic foundation combines with a wealth of professional and life experience (I have lived and worked in 8 countries, raising a family in 5 of these) to inform my practice. I work with warmth, empathy, authenticity, and a genuine belief in the potential for growth. I practise collaboratively, honouring your needs and preferences.
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.
My strong academic foundation combines with a wealth of professional and life experience (I have lived and worked in 8 countries, raising a family in 5 of these) to inform my practice. I work with warmth, empathy, authenticity, and a genuine belief in the potential for growth. I practise collaboratively, honouring your needs and preferences.
View
Photo of Tabitha Phillips, Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Tabitha Phillips
Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Serves Area
I'm a registered counsellor with experience in addressing all kinds of concerns;  including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief, anger management, stress and navigating life transitions.
Our first session will focus on clarifying what brings you to counselling and working with you to plan a way ahead. I aim to provide a warm, empathetic and supportive space but if you don’t feel we align, I can help you find a different therapist. I am straightforward and can be direct if need be.
I'm a registered counsellor with experience in addressing all kinds of concerns;  including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief, anger management, stress and navigating life transitions.
Our first session will focus on clarifying what brings you to counselling and working with you to plan a way ahead. I aim to provide a warm, empathetic and supportive space but if you don’t feel we align, I can help you find a different therapist. I am straightforward and can be direct if need be.
0800 468 212 x90 View 0800 468 212 x90
Photo of Nadina Dodd, Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Nadina Dodd
Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Online Only
For example, if you have anxiety, we can work on understanding and befriending your nervous system.
I specialize in supporting folks with ADHD brains and I'm here to help you find your own personal roadmap for life through cultivating your creativity and embracing your uniqueness. I also focus on supporting women through their life experiences and transitions, whether it be related to career, education, relationships, parenting, infertility, grief, aging or more. I believe that you have inner wisdom and that you are the expert in your life and it will be an honour to witness your revitalization! Please note that I am a provisional member of NZAC as I recently returned to Aotearoa but I have over 10 years of counselling experience.
For example, if you have anxiety, we can work on understanding and befriending your nervous system.
I specialize in supporting folks with ADHD brains and I'm here to help you find your own personal roadmap for life through cultivating your creativity and embracing your uniqueness. I also focus on supporting women through their life experiences and transitions, whether it be related to career, education, relationships, parenting, infertility, grief, aging or more. I believe that you have inner wisdom and that you are the expert in your life and it will be an honour to witness your revitalization! Please note that I am a provisional member of NZAC as I recently returned to Aotearoa but I have over 10 years of counselling experience.
0800 627 004 x31 View 0800 627 004 x31
Photo of Araxi Mavridis, Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Araxi Mavridis
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Serves Area
Things like anxiety, identity crisis, grief, break ups, etc
As a counsellor, I offer a safe supportive space to explore your emotions, navigate challenges and build resilience. Whether you need tools to cope or someone to listen, I am here for you. with compassionate bilingual care in Spanish and English, let's work towards healing and growth
Things like anxiety, identity crisis, grief, break ups, etc
As a counsellor, I offer a safe supportive space to explore your emotions, navigate challenges and build resilience. Whether you need tools to cope or someone to listen, I am here for you. with compassionate bilingual care in Spanish and English, let's work towards healing and growth
View
Photo of Pauline Pringle-Thomas, Psychotherapist, PBANZ
Pauline Pringle-Thomas
Psychotherapist, PBANZ
Dunedin 9011
The people who find most success in psychotherapy are motivated and able to develop a good relationship with their therapist. They have good insight and are willing to meet weekly or in some cases more regularly to maintain an emotional attachment. This is the basis of healing, learning and understanding thoughts, feelings and how they influence behaviour. Developmentally the earlier the trauma the more frequent contact needs to be. I enjoy working in the community. A community based approach is more relational work as opposed to analytical.
The people who find most success in psychotherapy are motivated and able to develop a good relationship with their therapist. They have good insight and are willing to meet weekly or in some cases more regularly to maintain an emotional attachment. This is the basis of healing, learning and understanding thoughts, feelings and how they influence behaviour. Developmentally the earlier the trauma the more frequent contact needs to be. I enjoy working in the community. A community based approach is more relational work as opposed to analytical.
0800 627 004 x32 View 0800 627 004 x32
Photo of Dan Goodkind, Psychologist, PhD, MNZCCP
Dan Goodkind
Psychologist, PhD, MNZCCP
Serves Area
Hi, I am a registered clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist living and practicing in Nelson, New Zealand. My primary focus is providing psychotherapy. Psychotherapy involves the careful application of techniques that help people change their behaviors, thoughts, feelings, and other personal characteristics in ways that enable them to thrive and cope with the stresses of living. I prefer to work with clients in person but if meeting in person is impossible or impractical, I can provide services online.
Hi, I am a registered clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist living and practicing in Nelson, New Zealand. My primary focus is providing psychotherapy. Psychotherapy involves the careful application of techniques that help people change their behaviors, thoughts, feelings, and other personal characteristics in ways that enable them to thrive and cope with the stresses of living. I prefer to work with clients in person but if meeting in person is impossible or impractical, I can provide services online.
0800 627 024 x44 View 0800 627 024 x44
Anxiety Counsellors

What are the most common treatments for anxiety?

Talk therapy, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy, is the most common treatment for anxiety. Studies have shown it is equally effective as medication. Other forms of therapy are popular, depending on a patient’s experience. Exposure therapy, for instance, can be useful for people dealing with fears and phobias, or who have experienced traumatic events. Dialectical Behavioural Therapy may be useful for patients who need help with emotion regulation. Anxiolytic medications, like benzodiazepines, can also help with calming a person enough to focus on the skills they’ve learned, and physical exercise has been shown to help symptoms of anxiety across the board.

How long does therapy for anxiety take to work?

The amount of time needed to alleviate symptoms depends on the severity of a person’s condition. Some therapies may take 5-20 weekly sessions to show results. Anti-depressant medications typically take two to four weeks before a benefit is felt. Anti-anxiety medications are felt typically within 20-30 minutes. Medications are best used to offer a patient a better headspace in which to work on techniques learned in therapy. Exercise, improved sleep habits, and meditation are effective, but takes weeks or months to show results.

When should I seek treatment for anxiety?

Everyone feels anxious at times, but when anxiety causes disruption to your daily life, it may be time to seek help. Such disruption can be mental, physical, or both: having fear dominate your thoughts, avoiding situations or objects that bring on feelings of anxiety, or experiencing shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or panic attacks. When these symptoms are recurrent and distressing, it may be time to talk to someone.

How effective is treatment for anxiety?

Treatment for anxiety has been shown to be moderately to highly effective, according to a large body of psychology studies and analyses. For some people, treatment using CBT or exposure therapy alone is effective. Others respond best to a combination of medication and therapy.