Therapists for Adults in Otago

Photo of Diante Fuchs, Psychologist, MA
Diante Fuchs
Psychologist, MA
As a Clinical Psychologist, I specialise in guiding individuals and couples towards profound personal insight and behavioural transformation. Drawing on the Zen concept of 'Kensho' – seeing into one's true nature – I empower clients to overcome anxiety, depression, trauma and other mental health concerns that hinder their relationships, careers, and overall well-being. Whether you're navigating stress, low mood, or the lingering effects of past personal trauma, I offer a compassionate and tailored path to healing.
As a Clinical Psychologist, I specialise in guiding individuals and couples towards profound personal insight and behavioural transformation. Drawing on the Zen concept of 'Kensho' – seeing into one's true nature – I empower clients to overcome anxiety, depression, trauma and other mental health concerns that hinder their relationships, careers, and overall well-being. Whether you're navigating stress, low mood, or the lingering effects of past personal trauma, I offer a compassionate and tailored path to healing.
0800 627 004 x53 View 0800 627 004 x53
Photo of Yan Neo Lee - Mind'sEye Psychotherapy (Yan Neo Lee), Psychotherapist, PBANZ
Mind'sEye Psychotherapy (Yan Neo Lee)
Psychotherapist, PBANZ
1 Endorsed
Dunedin 9016
Seeking therapy is not only for those with mental health struggles, but effective therapy can be extremely worthwhile for many and critically necessary for some. I believe that therapy can help manage life’s many challenges and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life, providing us insight into our inner most thoughts and feelings and how to cope with them. 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
Seeking therapy is not only for those with mental health struggles, but effective therapy can be extremely worthwhile for many and critically necessary for some. I believe that therapy can help manage life’s many challenges and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life, providing us insight into our inner most thoughts and feelings and how to cope with them. 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
0800 447 359 x74 View 0800 447 359 x74
Photo of Samantha Baker, Counsellor, MNZAC
Samantha Baker
Counsellor, MNZAC
1 Endorsed
People come to counselling for many reasons. You may be responding to distress, confusion, loss, trauma, or difficulties in relationships, or you may be wanting space to explore hopes, values, and dreams for the future. Counselling can offer support when emotions such as sadness, anger, panic, or loneliness feel overwhelming, or when past experiences of harm, regret, or untold stories are weighing heavily. Having a safe, confidential space to speak openly can make a meaningful difference.
People come to counselling for many reasons. You may be responding to distress, confusion, loss, trauma, or difficulties in relationships, or you may be wanting space to explore hopes, values, and dreams for the future. Counselling can offer support when emotions such as sadness, anger, panic, or loneliness feel overwhelming, or when past experiences of harm, regret, or untold stories are weighing heavily. Having a safe, confidential space to speak openly can make a meaningful difference.
0800 452 530 x44 View 0800 452 530 x44
Photo of Nicola Carroll, Psychologist, MA
Nicola Carroll
Psychologist, MA
Waitlist for new clients
Kia ora! I’m Nicola, a registered Psychologist based in Tāhuna/Queenstown. I grew up & trained in Scotland then worked in various countries, before settling here around 10 years ago. I have 15+ years of experience in psychological assessment and treatment. I want to give clients the best possible experience and outcomes in therapy. I specialise in trauma, neurodiversity, and in perinatal mental health. I combine a range of therapeutic techniques to make real and lasting changes. I offer flexible delivery methods. I am an ACC Sensitive Claims and ACC Maternal Birth Injury Provider.
Kia ora! I’m Nicola, a registered Psychologist based in Tāhuna/Queenstown. I grew up & trained in Scotland then worked in various countries, before settling here around 10 years ago. I have 15+ years of experience in psychological assessment and treatment. I want to give clients the best possible experience and outcomes in therapy. I specialise in trauma, neurodiversity, and in perinatal mental health. I combine a range of therapeutic techniques to make real and lasting changes. I offer flexible delivery methods. I am an ACC Sensitive Claims and ACC Maternal Birth Injury Provider.
0800 447 359 x90 View 0800 447 359 x90
Photo of Araxi Mavridis, Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Araxi Mavridis
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
I have been working with children, young adults and adults as well as couples and families in the process of finding a better understanding of who they are and how they can approach the presenting issues
we all experience some type of setbacks during our lifetime. Things like anxiety, identity crisis, grief, break ups, etc. having an impartial, non-judgmental with a counsellor can help gain clarity, understanding and tools to work with the issue.
I have been working with children, young adults and adults as well as couples and families in the process of finding a better understanding of who they are and how they can approach the presenting issues
we all experience some type of setbacks during our lifetime. Things like anxiety, identity crisis, grief, break ups, etc. having an impartial, non-judgmental with a counsellor can help gain clarity, understanding and tools to work with the issue.
0800 627 024 x65 View 0800 627 024 x65
Photo of Rosalind Helen Heathcote - Find Your Marbles, Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
Find Your Marbles
Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
Clyde 9330
Kia ora, my name is Ros. Counselling provides a safe, non-judgemental space for you to be heard and feel understood. It might not always feel like it, but you are the expert on your own life. My counselling approach seeks to work with you to explore what’s going well and what’s proving a challenge. Together, we’ll explore your values, assumptions and beliefs and create supportive, functional strategies and solutions to help you make sense of where you are right now.
Kia ora, my name is Ros. Counselling provides a safe, non-judgemental space for you to be heard and feel understood. It might not always feel like it, but you are the expert on your own life. My counselling approach seeks to work with you to explore what’s going well and what’s proving a challenge. Together, we’ll explore your values, assumptions and beliefs and create supportive, functional strategies and solutions to help you make sense of where you are right now.
0800 627 050 x61 View 0800 627 050 x61
Photo of Christina Ayisah Eyeson, Counsellor, MA, NZAC - Provisional
Christina Ayisah Eyeson
Counsellor, MA, NZAC - Provisional
1 Endorsed
My ideal clients are adults struggling with substance use alongside mood concerns such as depression, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm.
I provide a supportive therapeutic space where clients can explore challenges and build strategies for change. I specialize in addiction and co-occurring mood disorders, using evidence-based approaches such as CBT, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness to strengthen emotional regulation, improve coping, and support long-term recovery and stability.
My ideal clients are adults struggling with substance use alongside mood concerns such as depression, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm.
I provide a supportive therapeutic space where clients can explore challenges and build strategies for change. I specialize in addiction and co-occurring mood disorders, using evidence-based approaches such as CBT, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness to strengthen emotional regulation, improve coping, and support long-term recovery and stability.
0800 118 063 x25 View 0800 118 063 x25
Photo of Janina Gould - Attuned Counselling, Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Attuned Counselling
Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Cromwell 9310
I work with a wide range of mental health challenges, and specifically I can work with Adults and Adolescence aged 12+.
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.
I work with a wide range of mental health challenges, and specifically I can work with Adults and Adolescence aged 12+.
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 Sarah Nicoll, Occupational Therapist
Sarah Nicoll
Occupational Therapist
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
My work is grounded in a trauma-informed mental health framework, with particular experience supporting adults and youths with ADHD, general mental health concerns, and emotional regulation difficulties.
I provide evidence-based talking therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), alongside working within a polyvagal-informed framework that integrates an understanding of the nervous system. This means we consider not only what you’re thinking, feeling, and doing, but also how your body and nervous system respond to stress, connection, and safety.
My work is grounded in a trauma-informed mental health framework, with particular experience supporting adults and youths with ADHD, general mental health concerns, and emotional regulation difficulties.
I provide evidence-based talking therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), alongside working within a polyvagal-informed framework that integrates an understanding of the nervous system. This means we consider not only what you’re thinking, feeling, and doing, but also how your body and nervous system respond to stress, connection, and safety.
0800 447 359 x91 View 0800 447 359 x91
Photo of Alex Wynn, MCouns
Alex Wynn
Verified Verified
Online Only
Kia ora, ko Alex tōku ingoa. I am a therapist based in Ōtepoti. I take a narrative-informed approach to therapy, which means I believe that the cultural stories, labels, and societal practices we encounter shape how we perceive ourselves and interact with the world. In our sessions, we will examine these dominant narratives and work together to uncover new, alternative stories for you to experience and understand yourself. I have experience working with people who are struggling with a wide range of difficulties, including trauma, PTSD, sexualised abuse and relationships. I work with people aged 18 and older.
Kia ora, ko Alex tōku ingoa. I am a therapist based in Ōtepoti. I take a narrative-informed approach to therapy, which means I believe that the cultural stories, labels, and societal practices we encounter shape how we perceive ourselves and interact with the world. In our sessions, we will examine these dominant narratives and work together to uncover new, alternative stories for you to experience and understand yourself. I have experience working with people who are struggling with a wide range of difficulties, including trauma, PTSD, sexualised abuse and relationships. I work with people aged 18 and older.
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Photo of Alice Beattie, Counsellor, MNZAC
Alice Beattie
Counsellor, MNZAC
Alexandra 9320
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 15 years' experience in both private practice as well as being employed as a Mental Health Clinician and various EAP's supporting adults, teens, young people and couples.
My passion is to create a space for others to explore their concerns or challenges and feel comfortable doing so as we work together towards your preferred goals ultimately supporting overall wellness. It can be a stepping out of the boat experience to talk to a professional about what troubles us, so I try to make the 'process' as easy as possible. We all struggle in many ways (normal!) and often, don't know what we don't know so upskilling in self-care or healthy thinking or relational wellness is something we all need to do from time to time to continue moving forward in life in ways that give our lives meaning and colour.
I have over 15 years' experience in both private practice as well as being employed as a Mental Health Clinician and various EAP's supporting adults, teens, young people and couples.
My passion is to create a space for others to explore their concerns or challenges and feel comfortable doing so as we work together towards your preferred goals ultimately supporting overall wellness. It can be a stepping out of the boat experience to talk to a professional about what troubles us, so I try to make the 'process' as easy as possible. We all struggle in many ways (normal!) and often, don't know what we don't know so upskilling in self-care or healthy thinking or relational wellness is something we all need to do from time to time to continue moving forward in life in ways that give our lives meaning and colour.
0800 447 264 x96 View 0800 447 264 x96
Photo of Sarah Dickson, Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Sarah Dickson
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Dunedin 9016
Kia ora, I have a special interest in maternal mental health, perinatal mental health and supporting women and birthing parents in parenthood. While these are my main passions I also welcome anyone seeking counselling, no matter what stage of life you are in or what challenges you may be facing.
Kia ora, I have a special interest in maternal mental health, perinatal mental health and supporting women and birthing parents in parenthood. While these are my main passions I also welcome anyone seeking counselling, no matter what stage of life you are in or what challenges you may be facing.
0800 627 050 x37 View 0800 627 050 x37
Photo of Deb Phillips, Counsellor
Deb Phillips
Counsellor
Kia ora, I’m Deb, a therapist & mental health professional passionate about helping you find the right insights to unlock the change you’re looking for in your life. I’m formally trained in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy as well as a number of other therapeutic models to tackle a diverse range of difficulties including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship problems, parenting challenges, childhood difficulties, postnatal depression, attachment difficulties and more.
Kia ora, I’m Deb, a therapist & mental health professional passionate about helping you find the right insights to unlock the change you’re looking for in your life. I’m formally trained in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy as well as a number of other therapeutic models to tackle a diverse range of difficulties including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship problems, parenting challenges, childhood difficulties, postnatal depression, attachment difficulties and more.
0800 627 003 x72 View 0800 627 003 x72
Photo of Karina Vaccarezza, Counsellor, PsychD, NZAC - Provisional
Karina Vaccarezza
Counsellor, PsychD, NZAC - Provisional
1 Endorsed
Wanaka 9305
I am a dedicated and compassionate Counsellor with a passion for helping individuals explore their inner world and emotions, empowering them to create a life filled with balance and harmony. Whether through online or in-person sessions conducted in either English or Spanish, I am committed to working alongside you as a unified team, guiding you towards the
I am a dedicated and compassionate Counsellor with a passion for helping individuals explore their inner world and emotions, empowering them to create a life filled with balance and harmony. Whether through online or in-person sessions conducted in either English or Spanish, I am committed to working alongside you as a unified team, guiding you towards the
0800 447 264 x59 View 0800 447 264 x59
Photo of Pia Klaus, MA
Pia Klaus
Verified Verified
Wanaka 9305
I help mothers struggling with anxiety to regulate their nervous system, so they can move from feeling constantly overwhelmed, reactive, and drained to feeling calm, safe within themselves, and truly able to enjoy and thrive in motherhood. I’ve been there! I know what it’s like to feel exhausted, anxious, and snappy, and I know how freeing it feels to finally feel safe within yourself. Because when your nervous system feels safe again, everything changes. I am a mother of 2, hold a Master of Science in Psychology, and am a certified RTT Therapist running my private practice since 2018. Work with me in person or online.
I help mothers struggling with anxiety to regulate their nervous system, so they can move from feeling constantly overwhelmed, reactive, and drained to feeling calm, safe within themselves, and truly able to enjoy and thrive in motherhood. I’ve been there! I know what it’s like to feel exhausted, anxious, and snappy, and I know how freeing it feels to finally feel safe within yourself. Because when your nervous system feels safe again, everything changes. I am a mother of 2, hold a Master of Science in Psychology, and am a certified RTT Therapist running my private practice since 2018. Work with me in person or online.
0800 451 520 x19 View 0800 451 520 x19
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
Photo of Stacey McIntyre - Peak Wellbeing, Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Peak Wellbeing
Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
1 Endorsed
Wanaka 9305
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Whether you are navigating loss, anxiety, relationship challenges, or simply feeling stuck, you don’t have to face it alone. Counselling at Peak Wellbeing is collaborative and empathetic, and each session is tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Whether you are navigating loss, anxiety, relationship challenges, or simply feeling stuck, you don’t have to face it alone. Counselling at Peak Wellbeing is collaborative and empathetic, and each session is tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.
0800 118 063 x43 View 0800 118 063 x43
Photo of James Andrew Howey - James Howey, Counselling and Supervision Services, Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
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.
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 Lana Van Lierop - Workitwell, Occupational Therapy
Workitwell
Occupational Therapy
1 Endorsed
Cromwell 9310
Hi, I am Lana Van Lierop and have over 20 years experience as a Registered Health Professional and have worked specifically as a mental health therapist/coach (Occupational Therapist) for the past 5 years. My approach is warm and compassionate; I work alongside you to identify what is important, your challenges and how you would like your life to be different. Sessions are very practical, helping you to identify skills and life long coping strategies. I specialise in supporting clients with burnout and overwhelm, anxiety, low mood, ADHD, workplace challenges or feeling stuck and lost.
Hi, I am Lana Van Lierop and have over 20 years experience as a Registered Health Professional and have worked specifically as a mental health therapist/coach (Occupational Therapist) for the past 5 years. My approach is warm and compassionate; I work alongside you to identify what is important, your challenges and how you would like your life to be different. Sessions are very practical, helping you to identify skills and life long coping strategies. I specialise in supporting clients with burnout and overwhelm, anxiety, low mood, ADHD, workplace challenges or feeling stuck and lost.
0800 451 520 x10 View 0800 451 520 x10
Photo of Hayden Isaac, Psychotherapist, PBANZ
Hayden Isaac
Psychotherapist, PBANZ
Online Only
I’m a registered psychotherapist (PBANZ); I specialise in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic psychotherapy and supervision; I am ACC registered; and I welcome all those who are struggling with mental health difficulties and those who want to have a greater understanding of who they are.
I’m a registered psychotherapist (PBANZ); I specialise in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic psychotherapy and supervision; I am ACC registered; and I welcome all those who are struggling with mental health difficulties and those who want to have a greater understanding of who they are.
0800 468 212 x51 View 0800 468 212 x51
FAQ - About Adult Counselling
Why should adults see a therapist?
Adults may benefit from therapy for a wide range of reasons—whether it’s managing symptoms of a diagnosed mental health condition like anxiety or depression, navigating life transitions, coping with grief or trauma, or simply seeking support during a challenging life period. Many adults find that therapy helps them build healthier coping skills and better process their emotions, which may lead to better relationships and reduced stress. It’s important to note that, unlike psychiatrists or primary care physicians, therapists do not prescribe psychiatric medication. However, they will often work alongside prescribing clinicians to ensure coordinated care and can provide behavioural therapy as an important addition to psychiatric medication. Mental health concerns can look different in adulthood than in childhood or adolescence, so finding a therapist with expertise working with adult clients is important. Conditions like major depressive disorder (MDD), generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for instance, may present or resurface differently in adulthood than in childhood or adolescence. Adult-specific stressors, such as job strain, caregiving responsibilities, relationship challenges, financial stress, or identity transitions, can also influence the onset and type of symptoms an individual experiences. Adult-focused therapists, therefore, are trained to understand these complexities and tailor care accordingly.

How do I know if a therapist is the right fit for me?
When seeking care, it’s important to understand a therapist’s treatment specialties and their overall approach to treatment. Some therapists focus on common adult conditions like anxiety or depression, while others specialize in areas such as trauma, substance use disorders, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. It’s also important to consider a therapist’s training when seeking care. Therapists in New Zealand hold various credentials depending on their training. Many counsellors are registered with a professional body, such as the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC), and many psychotherapists are registered through the Psychotherapists Board of Aotearoa New Zealand (PBANZ), and their qualifications and practice are overseen by these professional organisations. Psychologists are registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board (NZPB) and become qualified to work within a specific scope of practice, earning a title such as Clinical Psychologist, Counselling Psychologist, or Educational Psychologist. All of these professionals can provide talk therapy but do not prescribe medication. When searching for a therapist, consider their credentials and training background to ensure a good fit.

How do I find a therapist who sees adults?
Psychology Today’s online directory allows you to search specifically for therapists who work with adults. Each provider profile includes key information such as clinical specialties, therapeutic approaches, licensure, accepted insurance plans, languages spoken, and session fees. Reviewing these details can help you determine whether a particular provider aligns with your needs and can indicate whether they are a good match for adult clients.