Grief Therapists in Wanaka

Photo of Taylor Rapley - AHUA Psychology, Psychologist
AHUA Psychology
Psychologist
Wanaka 9305
I support people through anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, burnout, pain, and stress, and work with athletes from emerging talent to world champions.
My approach is science backed and human. Holistic yet practical. No one-size-fits-all, I adapt to each person. I’m not about talking for the sake of it; change happens when the mahi in session gets applied in real life. I blend EMDR, ACT, IFS, somatic and behavioural therapies to support lasting change and growth.
I support people through anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, burnout, pain, and stress, and work with athletes from emerging talent to world champions.
My approach is science backed and human. Holistic yet practical. No one-size-fits-all, I adapt to each person. I’m not about talking for the sake of it; change happens when the mahi in session gets applied in real life. I blend EMDR, ACT, IFS, somatic and behavioural therapies to support lasting change and growth.
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Photo of Fiona Williamson, Counsellor
Fiona Williamson
Counsellor
Wanaka 9382
I offer support for a range of challenges, including relationship issues, self-esteem, grief, anxiety, and addiction.
Finding the right Therapist is a bit like finding the perfect pair of shoes - it has to be the right fit to get to where you want to go. I provide a space that is professional, evidence based, and deeply compassionate. My work is informed by the belief that every person has an innate capacity for change when given the right environment.
I offer support for a range of challenges, including relationship issues, self-esteem, grief, anxiety, and addiction.
Finding the right Therapist is a bit like finding the perfect pair of shoes - it has to be the right fit to get to where you want to go. I provide a space that is professional, evidence based, and deeply compassionate. My work is informed by the belief that every person has an innate capacity for change when given the right environment.
0800 452 530 x85 View 0800 452 530 x85
Photo of Stacey McIntyre - Peak Wellbeing, Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Peak Wellbeing
Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
1 Endorsed
Wanaka 9305
Whether you are navigating loss, anxiety, relationship challenges, or simply feeling stuck, you don’t have to face it alone.
With my integrated approach I often use Solution‑Focused Therapy to identify your strengths, clarify what you want to be different, and take achievable steps toward change. I also draw on Motivational Interviewing, ACT, and psychoeducation whilst supported by more than twenty years of nursing practice.
Whether you are navigating loss, anxiety, relationship challenges, or simply feeling stuck, you don’t have to face it alone.
With my integrated approach I often use Solution‑Focused Therapy to identify your strengths, clarify what you want to be different, and take achievable steps toward change. I also draw on Motivational Interviewing, ACT, and psychoeducation whilst supported by more than twenty years of nursing practice.
0800 118 063 x43 View 0800 118 063 x43
Photo of James Andrew Howey - James Howey, Counselling and Supervision Services, Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
James Howey, Counselling and Supervision Services
Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
Serves Area
My clinical work includes; Couples Counselling, Family Counselling, Supervision both Clinical and Professional, Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Counselling, Mid-life ‘Crisis’ & Reintegration work, Counselling with Teenagers, Grief Counselling, lgbtqi Informed Counselling, Counselling with Individuals, Families and Friends affected by Suicide
The experience of engaging in counselling is a deeply personal journey that affects all of us in different ways, and sometimes in ways we would never have expected. My areas of specialisation include couples work, family work, trauma, men’s work, mid-life crisis, personality insight and supervision, both clinical and professional. These sit at the heart of how I approach my clinical practice. By talking together through your concerns, counselling and supervision can support you to see solutions you didn’t know were there. It can also help you find ways to manage more effectively and move forward in your life.
My clinical work includes; Couples Counselling, Family Counselling, Supervision both Clinical and Professional, Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Counselling, Mid-life ‘Crisis’ & Reintegration work, Counselling with Teenagers, Grief Counselling, lgbtqi Informed Counselling, Counselling with Individuals, Families and Friends affected by Suicide
The experience of engaging in counselling is a deeply personal journey that affects all of us in different ways, and sometimes in ways we would never have expected. My areas of specialisation include couples work, family work, trauma, men’s work, mid-life crisis, personality insight and supervision, both clinical and professional. These sit at the heart of how I approach my clinical practice. By talking together through your concerns, counselling and supervision can support you to see solutions you didn’t know were there. It can also help you find ways to manage more effectively and move forward in your life.
0800 447 264 x75 View 0800 447 264 x75
Photo of Kate Todd - Kate Todd Coaching and Counselling, Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
Kate Todd Coaching and Counselling
Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a therapist and Executive Coach I have a special interest in supporting clients to manage ADHD, Menopause, Relationships, Separation, Grief and our relationship with eating.
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.
As a therapist and Executive Coach I have a special interest in supporting clients to manage ADHD, Menopause, Relationships, Separation, Grief and our relationship with eating.
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.
0800 447 359 x29 View 0800 447 359 x29
Photo of Haley Farrar, Counsellor
Haley Farrar
Counsellor
Serves Area
I work with people who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or caught in painful patterns. My clients are often high functioning people who want life to feel easier than it does. You may be experiencing the impacts of painful or traumatic experiences, or a carrying more general sense of emptiness, anxiety, or unease. Your relationships may be suffering, and want more peace and connection in your lives. Your relationship may be in crisis or distress. I believe you're the expert on your own life and relationships. My role is to create space for difficult conversations to feel safer, patterns to be understood, and change to occur.
I work with people who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or caught in painful patterns. My clients are often high functioning people who want life to feel easier than it does. You may be experiencing the impacts of painful or traumatic experiences, or a carrying more general sense of emptiness, anxiety, or unease. Your relationships may be suffering, and want more peace and connection in your lives. Your relationship may be in crisis or distress. I believe you're the expert on your own life and relationships. My role is to create space for difficult conversations to feel safer, patterns to be understood, and change to occur.
0800 447 264 x46 View 0800 447 264 x46

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Hannah Wilkes - The Real Room, Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
The Real Room
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Many people come to counselling during times of loss, relationship changes, identity shifts, or when life simply no longer feels the same.
My approach is person-centred and holistic, guided by Te Whare Tapa Whā. Counselling with me is gentle and conversational, with no pressure to have the right words or to “move on.” I’m particularly drawn to grief, loss, and life transitions, and I support people to explore their experiences with compassion, curiosity, and care.
Many people come to counselling during times of loss, relationship changes, identity shifts, or when life simply no longer feels the same.
My approach is person-centred and holistic, guided by Te Whare Tapa Whā. Counselling with me is gentle and conversational, with no pressure to have the right words or to “move on.” I’m particularly drawn to grief, loss, and life transitions, and I support people to explore their experiences with compassion, curiosity, and care.
0800 627 003 x83 View 0800 627 003 x83
Photo of Dr. Shelley Harvill - Shelley Harvill - Rainbow Consulting, Psychologist, PhD
Shelley Harvill - Rainbow Consulting
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Shelley obtained a Doctorate of Psychology and completed post grad work in Nova Scotia Canada in 2010. She is a NZ registered clinical psychologist & served in the role of Clinical Manager of a National DBT Service. DBT is an integration of western and eastern psychological philosophies and along with EMDR and CBT based prolonged exposure, is one of Shelley’s preferred therapeutic models for working with emotional regulation, complex needs and trauma.
Shelley obtained a Doctorate of Psychology and completed post grad work in Nova Scotia Canada in 2010. She is a NZ registered clinical psychologist & served in the role of Clinical Manager of a National DBT Service. DBT is an integration of western and eastern psychological philosophies and along with EMDR and CBT based prolonged exposure, is one of Shelley’s preferred therapeutic models for working with emotional regulation, complex needs and trauma.
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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 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 Laura Clarke
Laura Clarke
Verified Verified
Hi there. I have nearly 15 years experience of working with individuals supporting them with their mental health. I use a combination of evidence based therapy to work with individuals and promote positive change. I am a trained EMDR Therapist, EMDR is a evidence based therapy that is used to treat trauma.
Hi there. I have nearly 15 years experience of working with individuals supporting them with their mental health. I use a combination of evidence based therapy to work with individuals and promote positive change. I am a trained EMDR Therapist, EMDR is a evidence based therapy that is used to treat trauma.
0800 451 520 x45 View 0800 451 520 x45
Photo of Ale Held, Psychologist
Ale Held
Psychologist
Online Only
Alexandra (Ale) Held is an NZ-trained and registered psychologist and a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA). She is experienced in working with a variety of challenging behaviours across adults, adolescents, and children in a range of settings, providing a high level of behavioural assessments and interventions. She is experienced in implementing intensive Behaviour Support Services, based on the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis. She works from a non-aversive framework to increase positive behaviour, increase positive interactions, develop skills, and decrease the occurrence of challenging behaviours.
Alexandra (Ale) Held is an NZ-trained and registered psychologist and a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA). She is experienced in working with a variety of challenging behaviours across adults, adolescents, and children in a range of settings, providing a high level of behavioural assessments and interventions. She is experienced in implementing intensive Behaviour Support Services, based on the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis. She works from a non-aversive framework to increase positive behaviour, increase positive interactions, develop skills, and decrease the occurrence of challenging behaviours.
0800 327 477 View 0800 327 477
Photo of Naomi Carleton, Psychologist
Naomi Carleton
Psychologist
Online Only
Naomi is an Australian and NZ registered psychologist with 18 years experience working with adults, adolescents and children. Naomi is known for her warmth, understanding and approachability. She enjoys supporting and working alongside her clients to improve their quality of life and help them achieve their own personal goals.
Naomi is an Australian and NZ registered psychologist with 18 years experience working with adults, adolescents and children. Naomi is known for her warmth, understanding and approachability. She enjoys supporting and working alongside her clients to improve their quality of life and help them achieve their own personal goals.
0800 327 477 View 0800 327 477
Photo of Neha Golchha, Psychologist
Neha Golchha
Psychologist
Online Only
Neha has a keen interest in eating disorders, adjustment and grief reactions, stress induced problems, anxiety and depression.
Neha mainly utilise cognitive behaviour therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, positive psychology and strength-based therapy. Neha also like to draw up on mindfulness-based stress reduction and motivation
Neha has a keen interest in eating disorders, adjustment and grief reactions, stress induced problems, anxiety and depression.
Neha mainly utilise cognitive behaviour therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, positive psychology and strength-based therapy. Neha also like to draw up on mindfulness-based stress reduction and motivation
0800 327 477 View 0800 327 477
Photo of Megan Carter - Megan Carter, Ocean Psy Clinical Psychology , Psychologist, MPsych
Megan Carter, Ocean Psy Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych
Online Only
It takes a lot of courage to reach out to a person you don’t know to work through challenges. I will meet you with compassion, for you, and hold space for your human experiences. We will build safety and trust together as we seek to acknowledge, understand, heal, and integrate what you have been through. I am passionate about supporting the diverse humans I work with to build resilience, cope, and process their experiences. I support my clients to live a life where their minds are a bit kinder to them.
It takes a lot of courage to reach out to a person you don’t know to work through challenges. I will meet you with compassion, for you, and hold space for your human experiences. We will build safety and trust together as we seek to acknowledge, understand, heal, and integrate what you have been through. I am passionate about supporting the diverse humans I work with to build resilience, cope, and process their experiences. I support my clients to live a life where their minds are a bit kinder to them.
0800 468 212 x99 View 0800 468 212 x99
Photo of Elaine Allison, Psychologist, MA
Elaine Allison
Psychologist, MA
Serves Area
Elaine is a Senior Registered Psychologist in New Zealand and a Registered Practioner Psychologist in the UK. Elaine has lived in New Zealand for over 25yrs. Elaine helps her clients using a warm, empowering approach to assist her clients achieve their goals in the most appropriate way. (Offers early morning/evening video sessions, (though Clearhead, EAP/insurance) and in person. Elaine uses various approaches CBT, SFT, ADHD coaching etc. She has over 27 years experience working with adults, teenagers/children/families. Elaine has worked within the Health Service, G.P. surgeries, CYFS/OT, Special Education and in private practice .
Elaine is a Senior Registered Psychologist in New Zealand and a Registered Practioner Psychologist in the UK. Elaine has lived in New Zealand for over 25yrs. Elaine helps her clients using a warm, empowering approach to assist her clients achieve their goals in the most appropriate way. (Offers early morning/evening video sessions, (though Clearhead, EAP/insurance) and in person. Elaine uses various approaches CBT, SFT, ADHD coaching etc. She has over 27 years experience working with adults, teenagers/children/families. Elaine has worked within the Health Service, G.P. surgeries, CYFS/OT, Special Education and in private practice .
0800 627 024 x53 View 0800 627 024 x53
Photo of Sheree Kataraina Wallis, Counsellor, MPsych, MNZAC
Sheree Kataraina Wallis
Counsellor, MPsych, MNZAC
1 Endorsed
Cromwell 9310
I am available for therapeutic conversations and counselling support. I provide Clinical/Practice Supervision to meet your CPD needs as a practitioner, clinical manager, peer support and mental health worker. I prepare cultural reports for court (family, youth and district). I have a practice background working with young people and children, adults with repeat and recidivist offending behaviour; complex mental health and addictions, sexually harmful behaviours, trauma, hurt and pain. I provide Cultural Supervision from a kaupapa Māori lens and I will walk alongside you to explore your own cultural practice.
I am available for therapeutic conversations and counselling support. I provide Clinical/Practice Supervision to meet your CPD needs as a practitioner, clinical manager, peer support and mental health worker. I prepare cultural reports for court (family, youth and district). I have a practice background working with young people and children, adults with repeat and recidivist offending behaviour; complex mental health and addictions, sexually harmful behaviours, trauma, hurt and pain. I provide Cultural Supervision from a kaupapa Māori lens and I will walk alongside you to explore your own cultural practice.
0800 627 050 x92 View 0800 627 050 x92
Photo of Janina Gould - Attuned Counselling, Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Attuned Counselling
Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Cromwell 9310
Kia ora, my name is Janina and I’m all about keeping the conversation real and authentic, as life can be hard at times. Our work together is a collaborative process focused on understanding what’s really going on underneath - whether that’s anxiety, overwhelm, or patterns that feel hard to shift. Together we can unpack your beliefs, patterns or experiences finding practical and emotional ways forward. I am able to draw on a range of therapeutic modalities, allowing our work to be flexible and tailored to your needs at any given moment.
Kia ora, my name is Janina and I’m all about keeping the conversation real and authentic, as life can be hard at times. Our work together is a collaborative process focused on understanding what’s really going on underneath - whether that’s anxiety, overwhelm, or patterns that feel hard to shift. Together we can unpack your beliefs, patterns or experiences finding practical and emotional ways forward. I am able to draw on a range of therapeutic modalities, allowing our work to be flexible and tailored to your needs at any given moment.
0800 468 212 x77 View 0800 468 212 x77
Photo of Karen Bernal Jara, Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Karen Bernal Jara
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Serves Area
I also have experience supporting clients through life transitions and the migration settlement process, helping them manage anxiety, stress, and grief.
If you’re navigating trauma, anxiety, stress, or major life transitions such as migration or parenthood, I’m here to support you. If you’re looking for an ACC sensitive Claims provider or a safe, culturally sensitive, and compassionate space to process your experiences and find effective ways to manage your emotions. Together, we’ll work toward healing, building resilience, and gaining clarity. My goal is to help you feel heard, validated, and empowered, so you can move forward with confidence and achieve the growth you’re seeking.
I also have experience supporting clients through life transitions and the migration settlement process, helping them manage anxiety, stress, and grief.
If you’re navigating trauma, anxiety, stress, or major life transitions such as migration or parenthood, I’m here to support you. If you’re looking for an ACC sensitive Claims provider or a safe, culturally sensitive, and compassionate space to process your experiences and find effective ways to manage your emotions. Together, we’ll work toward healing, building resilience, and gaining clarity. My goal is to help you feel heard, validated, and empowered, so you can move forward with confidence and achieve the growth you’re seeking.
0800 627 050 x17 View 0800 627 050 x17
Photo of Kelsey Powell, Counsellor, MA, MNZAC
Kelsey Powell
Counsellor, MA, MNZAC
1 Endorsed
Have you've been carrying a lot and you're ready to finally start facing it all? Something has come to a head and you're thinking, "It's finally time." The good news is that you don't have to navigate it all on your own. The even better news is we can take it one step at a time so it doesn't feel quite as overwhelming as it may first seem. Rest assured, compassion and empathy are a core part of my approach to ensure you feel safe and supported through your healing journey. We can work together to understand your experience at a deeper level and build healthy coping skills to move forward.
Have you've been carrying a lot and you're ready to finally start facing it all? Something has come to a head and you're thinking, "It's finally time." The good news is that you don't have to navigate it all on your own. The even better news is we can take it one step at a time so it doesn't feel quite as overwhelming as it may first seem. Rest assured, compassion and empathy are a core part of my approach to ensure you feel safe and supported through your healing journey. We can work together to understand your experience at a deeper level and build healthy coping skills to move forward.
0800 468 212 x20 View 0800 468 212 x20
Grief Counsellors
How long does therapy take for grief?
There is no exact timeline for grief counseling. Some people may start to feel better after just a few sessions, while others may take months or longer to feel relief. Some specific approaches, including some types of CBT, may involve a set number of sessions, or therapy may be open-ended until the patient determines they are ready to wrap up. Just as there is no right or wrong way to grieve, there is no right or wrong way to seek therapy for grief.

When should you seek therapy for grief?
Many people mistakenly believe that their grief needs to be debilitating or all-encompassing to warrant therapy. This is not the case. While people who experience severe, prolonged grief—particularly those who are considering self-harm or engaging in unhealthy substance use—are especially likely to benefit from therapy, so too are people whose grief is less intense but still interfering with well-being or daily functioning. In practice, almost anyone struggling to process a loss could benefit from grief counseling.

Can grief be managed without therapy?
Oftentimes, yes. Grief is a near-universal part of being human, and many find that their grief, while profound, does not stop them from participating in day-to-day life and steadily eases over time without outside help. For others, however, the harsh pain of early grief persists for months or years or leaves them unable to function. This group is especially likely to benefit from seeing a therapist, who can guide them through their grief and help them reconnect with the world.

What happens if grief is left untreated?
Because grief does not in itself necessitate therapy, untreated grief will often resolve on its own. However, for some people—particularly those who would qualify for a diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder—untreated grief can be a source of seemingly endless pain or lead them to withdraw from the world. In such cases, treatment can be indispensable, as it can help an individual adapt to the loss and start living again.