Art Therapy in Otago
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.
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.
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.
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 .
Sessions are primarily conversation, with optional creative approaches such as writing, imagery, or simple art processes when helpful.
Many people who find their way to this work have spent a long time trying to put words to experiences that don’t always fit easily into ordinary conversation. They may feel things intensely, think in complex or creative ways, or find that their inner world moves in images, sensations, or metaphor rather than straightforward explanations.
I work especially well with people who feel deeply, think creatively, or have struggled to find therapy that makes space for imagination, sensitivity, or non-linear ways of processing experience.
Sessions are primarily conversation, with optional creative approaches such as writing, imagery, or simple art processes when helpful.
Many people who find their way to this work have spent a long time trying to put words to experiences that don’t always fit easily into ordinary conversation. They may feel things intensely, think in complex or creative ways, or find that their inner world moves in images, sensations, or metaphor rather than straightforward explanations.
I work especially well with people who feel deeply, think creatively, or have struggled to find therapy that makes space for imagination, sensitivity, or non-linear ways of processing experience.
From the outside, your life looks fine. A good job, people who care about you, everything in place. Yet inside there's a quiet sense that something is missing, or that you're living a life that isn't quite yours. Perhaps you spend so much energy caring for others, or worrying what they think, that you can no longer hear yourself. Reaching out takes courage, but it's worth it: while tough times will always be part of life, you don't have to suffer unnecessarily anymore. I believe we are shaped, and sometimes hurt, in relationships, so healing and change happen through relationship too.
From the outside, your life looks fine. A good job, people who care about you, everything in place. Yet inside there's a quiet sense that something is missing, or that you're living a life that isn't quite yours. Perhaps you spend so much energy caring for others, or worrying what they think, that you can no longer hear yourself. Reaching out takes courage, but it's worth it: while tough times will always be part of life, you don't have to suffer unnecessarily anymore. I believe we are shaped, and sometimes hurt, in relationships, so healing and change happen through relationship too.
I help individuals to thrive - predominately in relationship. As a couples counsellor/therapist I use Positive Psych, Relational Life Therapy, and Attachment Theory; adding mindfulness (presence skills) so clients can co-regulate, in session and in their lives. This model is a place of sharing - where any work that the individual needs, is witnessed and compassionately attuned to, by the partner. Many of my clients are Adult Diagnosed ADHD or AuDHD; Gifted; or partnered with such. 'Normal' is as unique as single individual I see. With communication skills, honesty, and intent - we can see you back to thriving.
I help individuals to thrive - predominately in relationship. As a couples counsellor/therapist I use Positive Psych, Relational Life Therapy, and Attachment Theory; adding mindfulness (presence skills) so clients can co-regulate, in session and in their lives. This model is a place of sharing - where any work that the individual needs, is witnessed and compassionately attuned to, by the partner. Many of my clients are Adult Diagnosed ADHD or AuDHD; Gifted; or partnered with such. 'Normal' is as unique as single individual I see. With communication skills, honesty, and intent - we can see you back to thriving.
Are you deeply caring & highly sensitive… but exhausted from holding everything together for everyone else? Maybe you overthink, struggle to say no, feel anxious when others are upset, or quietly wonder “who am I now?” I help women gently untangle patterns of people-pleasing, self-doubt & emotional exhaustion through online somatic and arts therapy. Together we work beyond the thinking mind, helping you reconnect with yourself, create inner safety & respond to life in a way that feels steadier, freer & more true to who you are.
Are you deeply caring & highly sensitive… but exhausted from holding everything together for everyone else? Maybe you overthink, struggle to say no, feel anxious when others are upset, or quietly wonder “who am I now?” I help women gently untangle patterns of people-pleasing, self-doubt & emotional exhaustion through online somatic and arts therapy. Together we work beyond the thinking mind, helping you reconnect with yourself, create inner safety & respond to life in a way that feels steadier, freer & more true to who you are.
Kia ora! 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 men and women through their life experiences and transitions, whether it be related to career, education, relationships, parenting, grief, aging or more. I believe that you have inner wisdom and are the expert in your life and it will be an honour to witness your revitalization!
Note: I was trained in Canada where I worked with diverse populations and cultural groups and have over 10 years of counselling experience.
Kia ora! 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 men and women through their life experiences and transitions, whether it be related to career, education, relationships, parenting, grief, aging or more. I believe that you have inner wisdom and are the expert in your life and it will be an honour to witness your revitalization!
Note: I was trained in Canada where I worked with diverse populations and cultural groups and have over 10 years of counselling experience.
I am a Holistic Counsellor, an Intuitive & a spiritual mentor. My spiritual awareness and my background in the field of health have benefitted my appreciation for both tangible and mystical perceptions when it comes to physical and mental wellbeing. The transformation & sacred journey I will take you on will enable you to reach wellbeing by liberating yourself from traumas, conditioning, and self-limiting beliefs rooted in past experiences that are no longer serving you. I have a nurturing, proactive & empowering approach to help you find freedom within yourself in a supportive and safe environment.
I am a Holistic Counsellor, an Intuitive & a spiritual mentor. My spiritual awareness and my background in the field of health have benefitted my appreciation for both tangible and mystical perceptions when it comes to physical and mental wellbeing. The transformation & sacred journey I will take you on will enable you to reach wellbeing by liberating yourself from traumas, conditioning, and self-limiting beliefs rooted in past experiences that are no longer serving you. I have a nurturing, proactive & empowering approach to help you find freedom within yourself in a supportive and safe environment.
I incorporate elements of Play Therapy and Art Therapy into my usual approach when working with children/young people, as it best suits my young clients' needs.
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 incorporate elements of Play Therapy and Art Therapy into my usual approach when working with children/young people, as it best suits my young clients' needs.
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.
Online Therapists
I love supporting clients to bring break-through and change to their lives and presenting issues. I deeply value journeying with clients to find the therapeutic approaches which are the best fit for them.
I love supporting clients to bring break-through and change to their lives and presenting issues. I deeply value journeying with clients to find the therapeutic approaches which are the best fit for them.
I know what it’s like to feel lost, overwhelmed, or disconnected from oneself. That personal journey led me to discover ways to reconnect with my truer, more contented self. Counselling became a natural extension of that learning. I now work with clients who want to understand themselves more deeply and feel more at home in their own lives with increased authenticity and peace. I use a gentle, compassionate approach towards enhanced self-awareness and understanding. Whether you're facing anxiety, stress, life transitions, or just a sense that something’s not quite right — I offer a calm, supportive space to come home to yourself.
I know what it’s like to feel lost, overwhelmed, or disconnected from oneself. That personal journey led me to discover ways to reconnect with my truer, more contented self. Counselling became a natural extension of that learning. I now work with clients who want to understand themselves more deeply and feel more at home in their own lives with increased authenticity and peace. I use a gentle, compassionate approach towards enhanced self-awareness and understanding. Whether you're facing anxiety, stress, life transitions, or just a sense that something’s not quite right — I offer a calm, supportive space to come home to yourself.
I have extensive experience in working with all age groups, and am skilled in many modalities, such as Solution-Focused Brief therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Play Therapy and Art Therapy.
I am a warm and friendly therapist, who loves supporting children, adolescents and parents with a range of emotional and behavioural difficulties. I can support with anxiety, low mood, academic difficulties, ADHD, low self-esteem, trauma, grief, divorce or any other areas where your child may feel stuck. My goals include helping my young clients to reach their full potential, as well as well as increasing their self-belief and overall wellbeing. As I am an Educational Psychologist, I work only with mild to moderate difficulties and will refer clients to the correct professional, in the case of severe- or crisis presentation.
I have extensive experience in working with all age groups, and am skilled in many modalities, such as Solution-Focused Brief therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Play Therapy and Art Therapy.
I am a warm and friendly therapist, who loves supporting children, adolescents and parents with a range of emotional and behavioural difficulties. I can support with anxiety, low mood, academic difficulties, ADHD, low self-esteem, trauma, grief, divorce or any other areas where your child may feel stuck. My goals include helping my young clients to reach their full potential, as well as well as increasing their self-belief and overall wellbeing. As I am an Educational Psychologist, I work only with mild to moderate difficulties and will refer clients to the correct professional, in the case of severe- or crisis presentation.
Kia ora, hello, I'm Malani. I offer a gentle, down-to-earth space where you can be yourself—no matter what you're carrying. I bring compassion, curiosity, and care into the room as we explore what matters most to you. Whether you're navigating anxiety, grief, family struggles, past trauma, or a general sense of being stuck or overwhelmed, I’ll walk alongside you at your pace.
I draw on both talk therapy and creative approaches, like drawing or storytelling, to help you connect with your inner world in ways that feel natural and empowering.
Kia ora, hello, I'm Malani. I offer a gentle, down-to-earth space where you can be yourself—no matter what you're carrying. I bring compassion, curiosity, and care into the room as we explore what matters most to you. Whether you're navigating anxiety, grief, family struggles, past trauma, or a general sense of being stuck or overwhelmed, I’ll walk alongside you at your pace.
I draw on both talk therapy and creative approaches, like drawing or storytelling, to help you connect with your inner world in ways that feel natural and empowering.
Hello, I’m Christine Burch, a seasoned Counsellor and Family Therapist with 16 years of experience working in Auckland. I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals and families from diverse backgrounds to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and work towards positive change. My goal is to help you build a strong foundation for personal growth and healing. I recognise that everyone’s journey is unique, and I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the individual needs of each client. I’m committed to creating a safe and culturally sensitive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their stories and experiences.
Hello, I’m Christine Burch, a seasoned Counsellor and Family Therapist with 16 years of experience working in Auckland. I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals and families from diverse backgrounds to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and work towards positive change. My goal is to help you build a strong foundation for personal growth and healing. I recognise that everyone’s journey is unique, and I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the individual needs of each client. I’m committed to creating a safe and culturally sensitive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their stories and experiences.
This includes a combination of creative processes and talking, and a variety of modalities such as visual art making, movement, drama, play, psychoeducation, and mindfulness.
My therapeutic experience is in group and 1:1 contexts working with young people with diverse life experiences from primary to young adult ages.
I can support you with:
- Neurodiversity
- Gender and Sexuality
- General Well-being
- Mental health
- Anxiety
- Life changes
- Identity and empowerment
- Creativity
This includes a combination of creative processes and talking, and a variety of modalities such as visual art making, movement, drama, play, psychoeducation, and mindfulness.
My therapeutic experience is in group and 1:1 contexts working with young people with diverse life experiences from primary to young adult ages.
I can support you with:
- Neurodiversity
- Gender and Sexuality
- General Well-being
- Mental health
- Anxiety
- Life changes
- Identity and empowerment
- Creativity
Hi I am an art therapist dedicated to supporting individuals as they navigate the complexities of mental health and emotional wellbeing.
My work is grounded in respect, curiosity, and a commitment to understanding how culture, community, and personal history shape the way we are. I strive to ensure that every session is inclusive, accessible, and responsive to the unique needs of the individual. Emotional regulation. Stress, Anxiety, Trauma, Abuse, intrusive thoughts, sexualisation.
Hi I am an art therapist dedicated to supporting individuals as they navigate the complexities of mental health and emotional wellbeing.
My work is grounded in respect, curiosity, and a commitment to understanding how culture, community, and personal history shape the way we are. I strive to ensure that every session is inclusive, accessible, and responsive to the unique needs of the individual. Emotional regulation. Stress, Anxiety, Trauma, Abuse, intrusive thoughts, sexualisation.
Kia ora, I'm Rosemary and I wonder what's in the way of abundant living for you? Is life feeling like a challenge? Maybe you are trying to manage powerful emotions, changing personal relationships, work situations or adapting to new stages in life. Perhaps you are you struggling with grief and loss or the impacts of a traumatic life event. I believe you have strengths that we can uncover, and new pathways we can explore together, to help manage these life challenges. If you brave enough to take the first steps then step into a safe and supportive therapeutic conversation with me.
Kia ora, I'm Rosemary and I wonder what's in the way of abundant living for you? Is life feeling like a challenge? Maybe you are trying to manage powerful emotions, changing personal relationships, work situations or adapting to new stages in life. Perhaps you are you struggling with grief and loss or the impacts of a traumatic life event. I believe you have strengths that we can uncover, and new pathways we can explore together, to help manage these life challenges. If you brave enough to take the first steps then step into a safe and supportive therapeutic conversation with me.
My passion and strengths lie in assisting people to make positive steps to take back mastery of their health and wellbeing and move towards their greatest potential and freedom. I take a holistic, creative and heart centered approach to the process, meeting you where you are at and walking side by side with you to a brighter, joyful and more authentic place within yourself and your world. My focus is on supporting you to build and strengthen your own resources inside yourself. Empowering you to grow your own awareness to understand yourself and the root causes of the presenting challenges.
My passion and strengths lie in assisting people to make positive steps to take back mastery of their health and wellbeing and move towards their greatest potential and freedom. I take a holistic, creative and heart centered approach to the process, meeting you where you are at and walking side by side with you to a brighter, joyful and more authentic place within yourself and your world. My focus is on supporting you to build and strengthen your own resources inside yourself. Empowering you to grow your own awareness to understand yourself and the root causes of the presenting challenges.
As a registered Creative Arts Therapist (CAT), I offer relational, trauma-informed, and neuro-affirming creative arts therapy to young people, and adults. My practice centres emotional and physical safety, choice, and collaboration, supporting people who may be navigating trauma, displacement, loss, or significant life transitions through the arts.
I believe in the gentle and innate powers of the creative arts to support the therapeutic journey, and I am also really happy to work with the well known tools of talk therapy. You lead the way, and I will journey alongside, offering support, listening, creativity and space to be.
As a registered Creative Arts Therapist (CAT), I offer relational, trauma-informed, and neuro-affirming creative arts therapy to young people, and adults. My practice centres emotional and physical safety, choice, and collaboration, supporting people who may be navigating trauma, displacement, loss, or significant life transitions through the arts.
I believe in the gentle and innate powers of the creative arts to support the therapeutic journey, and I am also really happy to work with the well known tools of talk therapy. You lead the way, and I will journey alongside, offering support, listening, creativity and space to be.
Art Therapy Counsellors
How does art therapy work?
The process of making art allows people to express themselves. Art-making can take many forms, such as painting, collage, or sculpting. The therapist asks questions that the work elicits, such as how the person felt while creating their piece, or if any memories surfaced that they can discuss. The therapist will then work with the patient to process their experience, understand themselves better, and work toward change.
Does art therapy help with trauma?
Art therapy can be a valuable treatment option for those suffering from trauma. Traumatic experiences such as combat, rape, or childhood abuse can be so painful that articulating them can be too scary or painful; creating art allows people to express themselves without words, and tell their story in a different way. The physical nature of creating art can also help people feel rooted in the body, which may benefit those who feel disconnected from their body in the aftermath of trauma.
How long does art therapy last?
The duration of art therapy varies, but a common length for treatment is 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Some people may see improvement in just a few weeks, while others may choose to remain in therapy longer term. Patients should periodically discuss their goals with their therapist to make sure the two are aligned on process and progress.
What are the limitations of art therapy?
Art therapy is helpful for many people, but a limitation is that it doesn’t have as robust an evidence base as other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy or acceptance and commitment therapy. The evidence on art therapy is mixed; some research demonstrates its benefits, while other research suggests that it has little impact on patients.