Anxiety Therapists in Otago

Photo of Hayden Isaac, Psychotherapist, PBANZ
Hayden Isaac
Psychotherapist, PBANZ
Dunedin 9016
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
Photo of Rosalind Helen Heathcote - Find Your Marbles, Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
Find Your Marbles
Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
Clyde 9330
I put the therapeutic relationship first, supported by a variety of techniques and strategies for coping with anxiety, grief, depression and any of life's challenges.
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.
I put the therapeutic relationship first, supported by a variety of techniques and strategies for coping with anxiety, grief, depression and any of life's challenges.
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 Diante Fuchs, Psychologist, MA
Diante Fuchs
Psychologist, MA
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.
I offer ONLINE + In Person. My integrated therapeutic approach is neurodivergent-friendly and incorporates evidence-based modalities such as Schema Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and EMDR. I also provide specialised support for anxiety through online coaching and programmes.
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.
I offer ONLINE + In Person. My integrated therapeutic approach is neurodivergent-friendly and incorporates evidence-based modalities such as Schema Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and EMDR. I also provide specialised support for anxiety through online coaching and programmes.
0800 627 004 x53 View 0800 627 004 x53
Photo of Sarah Nicoll, Occupational Therapist
Sarah Nicoll
Occupational Therapist
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am a NZ Registered Health Professional with a career spanning over 25 years in mental health therapy, counselling, and occupational therapy. 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 believe meaningful change happens within a strong therapeutic relationship, where you feel understood, respected, and supported. Together we explore strategies and insights that help you navigate challenges and function more effectively in your everyday life.
Hello! I am a NZ Registered Health Professional with a career spanning over 25 years in mental health therapy, counselling, and occupational therapy. 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 believe meaningful change happens within a strong therapeutic relationship, where you feel understood, respected, and supported. Together we explore strategies and insights that help you navigate challenges and function more effectively in your everyday life.
0800 447 359 x91 View 0800 447 359 x91
Photo of Janina Gould - Attuned Counselling, Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Attuned Counselling
Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Cromwell 9310
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.
I work with a wide range of mental health challenges, and specifically I can work with Adults and Adolescence aged 12+. I have a special interest in maternal mental health and can also work with Deaf people (I am a hearing therapist who is fluent in New Zealand Sign Language). All are welcome!
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.
I work with a wide range of mental health challenges, and specifically I can work with Adults and Adolescence aged 12+. I have a special interest in maternal mental health and can also work with Deaf people (I am a hearing therapist who is fluent in New Zealand Sign Language). All are welcome!
0800 468 212 x77 View 0800 468 212 x77
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 Lana Van Lierop - Workitwell, Occupational Therapy
Workitwell
Occupational Therapy
1 Endorsed
Cromwell 9310
I specialise in supporting clients with burnout and overwhelm, anxiety, low mood, ADHD, workplace challenges or feeling stuck and lost.
I believe my role in therapy is as a coach and guide, empowering you to take action towards your identified goals. I utilise a range of approaches within sessions including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Sensory Modulation. I work with clients of all ages.
I specialise in supporting clients with burnout and overwhelm, anxiety, low mood, ADHD, workplace challenges or feeling stuck and lost.
I believe my role in therapy is as a coach and guide, empowering you to take action towards your identified goals. I utilise a range of approaches within sessions including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Sensory Modulation. I work with clients of all ages.
0800 451 520 x10 View 0800 451 520 x10
Photo of Ashleigh Helm, Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Ashleigh Helm
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Dunedin 9016
It is used in hospitals around the world to improve patient outcomes, manage stress, anxiety, depression, pain & increase overall sense of wellbeing.
Kia ora, my name is Ash. There are many paths to well-being and no two look the same. Counselling can be an invaluable way to deepen your understanding of yourself. A space to work through challenges you're facing or better understand what is holding you back from wellness. Perhaps you want to create a meaningful life that feels true to you. Together we can find your path forward. I work collaboratively and offer a gentle, grounded space for you to settle and really make sense of things. I love working with sensitive and reflective people from all walks of life. From 16 years + through to retirement and beyond.
It is used in hospitals around the world to improve patient outcomes, manage stress, anxiety, depression, pain & increase overall sense of wellbeing.
Kia ora, my name is Ash. There are many paths to well-being and no two look the same. Counselling can be an invaluable way to deepen your understanding of yourself. A space to work through challenges you're facing or better understand what is holding you back from wellness. Perhaps you want to create a meaningful life that feels true to you. Together we can find your path forward. I work collaboratively and offer a gentle, grounded space for you to settle and really make sense of things. I love working with sensitive and reflective people from all walks of life. From 16 years + through to retirement and beyond.
0800 118 063 x75 View 0800 118 063 x75
Photo of Peggy Barrett, Psychologist, MSc
Peggy Barrett
Psychologist, MSc
Serves Area
I work with individuals and couples who are functioning on the outside but struggling internally, feeling anxious, emotionally overwhelmed, disconnected in relationships, or stuck in painful repeating patterns.
My approach is relational, insight-oriented, and practical. I help clients understand the deeper patterns beneath their struggles and develop more grounded, intentional ways of responding to themselves and others. I hold the view that people are doing the best they can with the resources they’ve had, and that many difficult patterns began as protective way
I work with individuals and couples who are functioning on the outside but struggling internally, feeling anxious, emotionally overwhelmed, disconnected in relationships, or stuck in painful repeating patterns.
My approach is relational, insight-oriented, and practical. I help clients understand the deeper patterns beneath their struggles and develop more grounded, intentional ways of responding to themselves and others. I hold the view that people are doing the best they can with the resources they’ve had, and that many difficult patterns began as protective way
0800 451 540 x71 View 0800 451 540 x71
Photo of Patricia Pataki, Psychotherapist, MSc, PBANZ
Patricia Pataki
Psychotherapist, MSc, PBANZ
Serves Area
I am a Nelson-based Psychotherapist offering short-term and long-term psychotherapy for adults, children and young people. My approach to working in therapy relies mainly on psychodynamic theories; meaning that I believe our early experiences have a significant impact on us. We may search for patterns in your life, to better understand what may be causing and perpetuating your problems. In long-term therapy it is crucial that you come to trust me, to share these often very personal memories and experiences.
I am a Nelson-based Psychotherapist offering short-term and long-term psychotherapy for adults, children and young people. My approach to working in therapy relies mainly on psychodynamic theories; meaning that I believe our early experiences have a significant impact on us. We may search for patterns in your life, to better understand what may be causing and perpetuating your problems. In long-term therapy it is crucial that you come to trust me, to share these often very personal memories and experiences.
0800 452 530 x15 View 0800 452 530 x15
Photo of Karen Hielkema, Psychologist
Karen Hielkema
Psychologist
Online Only
Karen has a particular interest in anxiety, women’s psychology, gender issues and workplace issues.
Karen incorporate techniques from a range of therapeutic models including cognitive behaviour therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, positive psychology, strength based and solution focused therapy. Karen works with adolescents and adults and accept EAP and Geneva Health referrals.
Karen has a particular interest in anxiety, women’s psychology, gender issues and workplace issues.
Karen incorporate techniques from a range of therapeutic models including cognitive behaviour therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, positive psychology, strength based and solution focused therapy. Karen works with adolescents and adults and accept EAP and Geneva Health referrals.
0800 627 024 x17 View 0800 627 024 x17
Photo of Kate Todd - Kate Todd Coaching and Counselling, Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
Kate Todd Coaching and Counselling
Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
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 Hannah Wilkes - The Real Room, Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
The Real Room
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I offer a calm, grounded space where you can talk openly about whatever you’re carrying, whether that’s sadness, anxiety, confusion, or feeling disconnected from yourself
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.
I offer a calm, grounded space where you can talk openly about whatever you’re carrying, whether that’s sadness, anxiety, confusion, or feeling disconnected from yourself
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 Maree Martinovich, Psychologist
Maree Martinovich
Psychologist
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have specialist training in neurodiversity including in interventions specifically designed to support challenges unique to neurodiverse persons along with depression and a wide range of anxiety issues including OCD, panic attacks, and more generalized anxiety.
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years' experience working in a range of adult settings. I offer comprehensive assessments including neuroaffirming assessments for autism, and therapy for a wide range of concerns including for challenges experienced by autistic persons such as autistic burnout, and shutdowns and meltdowns. I have provided supervision and training in specialist areas for clinical psychologists and mental health professionals and have a commitment to clinical expertise. My aim is to provide a safe space and ensure that the process resonates with each person’s needs and preferences.
I have specialist training in neurodiversity including in interventions specifically designed to support challenges unique to neurodiverse persons along with depression and a wide range of anxiety issues including OCD, panic attacks, and more generalized anxiety.
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years' experience working in a range of adult settings. I offer comprehensive assessments including neuroaffirming assessments for autism, and therapy for a wide range of concerns including for challenges experienced by autistic persons such as autistic burnout, and shutdowns and meltdowns. I have provided supervision and training in specialist areas for clinical psychologists and mental health professionals and have a commitment to clinical expertise. My aim is to provide a safe space and ensure that the process resonates with each person’s needs and preferences.
0800 627 050 x80 View 0800 627 050 x80
Photo of Ben Burggraaf, Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Ben Burggraaf
Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Online Only
I work with people caught in patterns of overthinking, anxiety, people pleasing, and ADHD (even if you simply suspect you're neurodivergent).
These days my life is beautifully simple. I surf whenever I can. I read too much. I still get genuinely excited about a good sunset. I laugh easily – probably too easily. None of that makes me an expert on your life. It just means I know what it feels like to come back to yourself, and I delight in helping other people find their way there too.
I work with people caught in patterns of overthinking, anxiety, people pleasing, and ADHD (even if you simply suspect you're neurodivergent).
These days my life is beautifully simple. I surf whenever I can. I read too much. I still get genuinely excited about a good sunset. I laugh easily – probably too easily. None of that makes me an expert on your life. It just means I know what it feels like to come back to yourself, and I delight in helping other people find their way there too.
0800 627 003 x98 View 0800 627 003 x98
Photo of Elaine Grace, Counsellor
Elaine Grace
Counsellor
Online Only
Perhaps you understand your patterns intellectually, yet you still find yourself trapped by anxiety, self-criticism, or a quiet loss of hope.
My approach is founded on the Neuroscience of Memory Reconsolidation. I'm trained in Coherence Therapy, IFS, and Psychodynamic Therapy. Therapy has changed a lot and we now know what works permanently. I also offer COUPLE therapy & Exec coaching. Distress in one area of life can cross over to other life domains. I help find your best entry point for change.
Perhaps you understand your patterns intellectually, yet you still find yourself trapped by anxiety, self-criticism, or a quiet loss of hope.
My approach is founded on the Neuroscience of Memory Reconsolidation. I'm trained in Coherence Therapy, IFS, and Psychodynamic Therapy. Therapy has changed a lot and we now know what works permanently. I also offer COUPLE therapy & Exec coaching. Distress in one area of life can cross over to other life domains. I help find your best entry point for change.
0800 447 359 x45 View 0800 447 359 x45
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 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 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
Photo of Evelyn Shackley, Psychotherapist, MA, PBANZ
Evelyn Shackley
Psychotherapist, MA, PBANZ
Serves Area
I work with adults who struggle with relationships, alcohol, anxiety, and depression.
I have a MA in Psychotherapy (Middlesex University, London) and a DipHIP (BCPC, Bath). My rigorous training (2010-2018) included a wide range of theory, two placements and private practice. Placements were with NHS Mental Health Teams and with The SWAN Project (alcohol and life issues). I also worked as operations manager at The Green House (sexual abuse).
I work with adults who struggle with relationships, alcohol, anxiety, and depression.
I have a MA in Psychotherapy (Middlesex University, London) and a DipHIP (BCPC, Bath). My rigorous training (2010-2018) included a wide range of theory, two placements and private practice. Placements were with NHS Mental Health Teams and with The SWAN Project (alcohol and life issues). I also worked as operations manager at The Green House (sexual abuse).
020 4083 9034 View 020 4083 9034
Anxiety Counsellors
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.

What are the most common types of treatment 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.

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.