Cancer Therapists in Otago

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 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 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

Online Therapists

Photo of Elaine Matthews Venter, Counsellor, AThR
Elaine Matthews Venter
Counsellor, AThR
If you are experiencing difficult emotions, finding it hard to express your feelings, feeling angry, stressed, depressed, or lonely, struggling in your relationships, telling yourself that you do not deserve happiness in life, failing to achieve goals in your life, or struggling with an eating disorder, or addictive behaviour, I can work alongside you to find ways to assist you to feel happier and more fulfilled, while leading a more meaningful and creative life.
If you are experiencing difficult emotions, finding it hard to express your feelings, feeling angry, stressed, depressed, or lonely, struggling in your relationships, telling yourself that you do not deserve happiness in life, failing to achieve goals in your life, or struggling with an eating disorder, or addictive behaviour, I can work alongside you to find ways to assist you to feel happier and more fulfilled, while leading a more meaningful and creative life.
0800 627 050 x21 View 0800 627 050 x21
Photo of Ally Beattie - Ally Beattie Stuff Happenz Bay of Plenty Tauranga, Counsellor, MNZCCA
Ally at Stuff Happenz is a qualified personal counselor who specializes in working with adults, youth, and children dealing with physical injuries, complex chronic illnesses, cancer, relationship breakdown, anxiety and depression, panic attacks, trauma, grief, and loss.
It sometimes can be hard to ask for support but there is no time like now to give it a go.
Ally at Stuff Happenz is a qualified personal counselor who specializes in working with adults, youth, and children dealing with physical injuries, complex chronic illnesses, cancer, relationship breakdown, anxiety and depression, panic attacks, trauma, grief, and loss.
It sometimes can be hard to ask for support but there is no time like now to give it a go.
0800 627 024 x40 View 0800 627 024 x40
Photo of Marianne Harlaar
Marianne Harlaar
Verified Verified
Auckland 1052
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome, Kia Ora, warm Greetings, my name is Marianne, lovely to meet you. I'm an experienced Counselling Professional, Supervisor, Therapist, Life and Wellness Coach. I love working in partnership with people, supporting them through challenging times. I love seeing people leave a session with an increased sense of peace, of wellbeing, of feeling valued after feeling stressed, anxious, adrift or unable to cope with life. Are you longing to find clarity, meaning in life or want to feel more stable and empowered? Do you have a goal and need support to achieve it? Sometimes we want to change an old pattern or belief but feel stuck...
Welcome, Kia Ora, warm Greetings, my name is Marianne, lovely to meet you. I'm an experienced Counselling Professional, Supervisor, Therapist, Life and Wellness Coach. I love working in partnership with people, supporting them through challenging times. I love seeing people leave a session with an increased sense of peace, of wellbeing, of feeling valued after feeling stressed, anxious, adrift or unable to cope with life. Are you longing to find clarity, meaning in life or want to feel more stable and empowered? Do you have a goal and need support to achieve it? Sometimes we want to change an old pattern or belief but feel stuck...
0800 447 264 x69 View 0800 447 264 x69
Photo of Leith Douglas Percy Thompson - Leith Thompson, Counsellor, MNZCCA
Leith Thompson
Counsellor, MNZCCA
Tauranga 3110
My name is Leith Thompson. I'm married with 4 grown children and eleven grand-children. My wife Donna and I live in Tauranga, NZ. I've been involved in the caring for people profession for over thirty years, before that I drove forklifts and worked as a baker. I have contracted to Mental Health and local Schools for many years and I have worked with ages five to eighty five. My wife and I make the most of our leisure time by enjoying good movies, great coffee and travelling. To relax I play table tennis and pool.
My name is Leith Thompson. I'm married with 4 grown children and eleven grand-children. My wife Donna and I live in Tauranga, NZ. I've been involved in the caring for people profession for over thirty years, before that I drove forklifts and worked as a baker. I have contracted to Mental Health and local Schools for many years and I have worked with ages five to eighty five. My wife and I make the most of our leisure time by enjoying good movies, great coffee and travelling. To relax I play table tennis and pool.
0800 627 050 x59 View 0800 627 050 x59
Photo of Anna O'Sullivan, Psychologist, MSc
Anna O'Sullivan
Psychologist, MSc
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My specialty areas include cancer, chronic health issues (diabetes, kidney disease, pain, cardiac) adolescent/young adult support, anxiety and trauma or PTSD.
You are the expert on your life, and so we work together on your goals or needs. This could be managing health or illness, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, mood, grief and loss, stress, relationships, change, and much more. To meet your goals, I use CBT, ACT, or EMDR with a sprinkling of other therapies. Above all, I aim to help you feel empowered and confident.
My specialty areas include cancer, chronic health issues (diabetes, kidney disease, pain, cardiac) adolescent/young adult support, anxiety and trauma or PTSD.
You are the expert on your life, and so we work together on your goals or needs. This could be managing health or illness, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, mood, grief and loss, stress, relationships, change, and much more. To meet your goals, I use CBT, ACT, or EMDR with a sprinkling of other therapies. Above all, I aim to help you feel empowered and confident.
0800 627 050 x50 View 0800 627 050 x50
Photo of Tracy Christine Cooper, Counsellor, MNZAC
Tracy Christine Cooper
Counsellor, MNZAC
Online Only
Hi and welcome. My name is Tracy and I have been a counsellor since 2015. I have a love for people and the life they live. I want to assist you to make the change you desire. I am an empathetic and kind counsellor. I work collaboratively with you to make change that you want. Inside of us all are the answers to our questions, and I will work alongside you to discover your answers to these questions and new ways of being. Come as you are and find a safe place to stay a while.
Hi and welcome. My name is Tracy and I have been a counsellor since 2015. I have a love for people and the life they live. I want to assist you to make the change you desire. I am an empathetic and kind counsellor. I work collaboratively with you to make change that you want. Inside of us all are the answers to our questions, and I will work alongside you to discover your answers to these questions and new ways of being. Come as you are and find a safe place to stay a while.
0800 447 264 x52 View 0800 447 264 x52
Photo of Christine Murphy, Counsellor, MNZAC
Christine Murphy
Counsellor, MNZAC
Auckland 0610
You may have been feeling anxious or disconnected for a while now but you just can't quite put your finger on it. Perhaps you are suffering from a major loss or the ongoing pain of unresolved issues. Whatever you are going through, when you have had enough and want to make change in your life, I am here to walk beside you while you navigate your way through your inner world. As we go along, I will provide the support you need to gain insight and clarity about what is happening, as well as empowering you to discover your own solutions, inner resources and strengths.
You may have been feeling anxious or disconnected for a while now but you just can't quite put your finger on it. Perhaps you are suffering from a major loss or the ongoing pain of unresolved issues. Whatever you are going through, when you have had enough and want to make change in your life, I am here to walk beside you while you navigate your way through your inner world. As we go along, I will provide the support you need to gain insight and clarity about what is happening, as well as empowering you to discover your own solutions, inner resources and strengths.
0800 447 264 x74 View 0800 447 264 x74
Photo of Marga Oosterhoff, Counsellor
Marga Oosterhoff
Counsellor
Waikanae 5036
My whole professional life I worked for people face-to-face. First as a social justice lawyer, later as a qualified acupuncturist and counselor. I enjoy supporting people- young and old - who are struggling with a variety of mental health issues, to find their own answers and solutions which enables them to move forward.
My whole professional life I worked for people face-to-face. First as a social justice lawyer, later as a qualified acupuncturist and counselor. I enjoy supporting people- young and old - who are struggling with a variety of mental health issues, to find their own answers and solutions which enables them to move forward.
0800 447 359 x76 View 0800 447 359 x76
Photo of Anélda Kloppers Huisamen - Anélda Huisamen Family Practice, Psychologist, MA
Anélda Huisamen Family Practice
Psychologist, MA
Warkworth 0910
Waitlist for new clients
Anelda Huisamen (née Kloppers) is a senior clinical psychologist, with interests in personal growth, supporting parents and children with neurodiversity, major life adjustments and trauma, attachment difficulties, ongoing emotional and behavioural difficulties, tics, body image and anxiety disorders. Comprehensive assessment and therapy services are offered.
Anelda Huisamen (née Kloppers) is a senior clinical psychologist, with interests in personal growth, supporting parents and children with neurodiversity, major life adjustments and trauma, attachment difficulties, ongoing emotional and behavioural difficulties, tics, body image and anxiety disorders. Comprehensive assessment and therapy services are offered.
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Photo of Xiu Jing Han, Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Xiu Jing Han
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Auckland 1060
Hello I am Xiu Jing. My first language is Mandarin and second language is English. I have experience in assisting individuals and family members navigate a wide range of difficulties, such as anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, feelings of loneliness, lack of control, low mood, powerlessness, and stress. Facing these issues alone can be extremely tough, and taking the first step to reach out to a counselor can often feel daunting, yet it is a courageous move.
Hello I am Xiu Jing. My first language is Mandarin and second language is English. I have experience in assisting individuals and family members navigate a wide range of difficulties, such as anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, feelings of loneliness, lack of control, low mood, powerlessness, and stress. Facing these issues alone can be extremely tough, and taking the first step to reach out to a counselor can often feel daunting, yet it is a courageous move.
0800 452 530 x49 View 0800 452 530 x49
Photo of Landa van den Berg, Counsellor, MNZAC
Landa van den Berg
Counsellor, MNZAC
I am a counsellor and trauma therapist, specialised in including the body in therapeutic work. My Bachelor of Counselling has given me a strong foundation in a variety of counselling approaches. Since then, I have continued my studies in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. Insights from neuroscience have shown how important it is to listen to and work with the body, when we are dealing with challenges like trauma, anxiety and depression. Together, we can find safe ways to access the wisdom of the body, which will lead to healing and insights much deeper than just using our thinking mind.
I am a counsellor and trauma therapist, specialised in including the body in therapeutic work. My Bachelor of Counselling has given me a strong foundation in a variety of counselling approaches. Since then, I have continued my studies in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. Insights from neuroscience have shown how important it is to listen to and work with the body, when we are dealing with challenges like trauma, anxiety and depression. Together, we can find safe ways to access the wisdom of the body, which will lead to healing and insights much deeper than just using our thinking mind.
0800 447 359 x34 View 0800 447 359 x34
Photo of Insa York, Counsellor, MNZAC
Insa York
Counsellor, MNZAC
I have been on my own personal growth journey for over 35 years where I was blessed enough to meet deeply inspiration people on Buddhist meditation and mindfulness retreats and in therapies such as Rebirthing, Psychodrama, Manaaki Bodywork, Gestalt, EFT. I am trained in Rogerian psychotherapy, also called person-centred counselling. I love this approach since it offers us to meet in a mutual, congruent way where humanistic values such as empathetic attunement and real human encounter pave the path to increased self-awareness and ultimately the integration and healing of exiled parts of our psyche. I work from my practice and online.
I have been on my own personal growth journey for over 35 years where I was blessed enough to meet deeply inspiration people on Buddhist meditation and mindfulness retreats and in therapies such as Rebirthing, Psychodrama, Manaaki Bodywork, Gestalt, EFT. I am trained in Rogerian psychotherapy, also called person-centred counselling. I love this approach since it offers us to meet in a mutual, congruent way where humanistic values such as empathetic attunement and real human encounter pave the path to increased self-awareness and ultimately the integration and healing of exiled parts of our psyche. I work from my practice and online.
0800 627 024 x16 View 0800 627 024 x16
Photo of Johan Erasmus, Psychologist, MSc, NZPsS Member
Johan Erasmus
Psychologist, MSc, NZPsS Member
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We all go through life events. At times more intense and at times quite bearable. If you are struggling with mental health, medical, relational or life difficulties, would like to feel more in control, feel stuck or need some objective help, guidance or coping skills, make contact and get the process started.
We all go through life events. At times more intense and at times quite bearable. If you are struggling with mental health, medical, relational or life difficulties, would like to feel more in control, feel stuck or need some objective help, guidance or coping skills, make contact and get the process started.
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Photo of Kristen Cook - CKC Counsellor Kristen Cook, Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
CKC Counsellor Kristen Cook
Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
1 Endorsed
Kristen is registered with; PHO, ACC sensitive claims, Victim Support, EAP and Breast Cancer Foundation.
Kristen offers a warm friendly environment to explore challenges or issues and acknowledge your strengths. She supports children, youth and adults (all gender preferences welcome). In conversations, you will discuss practical tools you can use in everyday life and how you can move closer to your preferred ways of being. You will develop insight and anchor skills to work through life's ‘curve balls’.
Kristen is registered with; PHO, ACC sensitive claims, Victim Support, EAP and Breast Cancer Foundation.
Kristen offers a warm friendly environment to explore challenges or issues and acknowledge your strengths. She supports children, youth and adults (all gender preferences welcome). In conversations, you will discuss practical tools you can use in everyday life and how you can move closer to your preferred ways of being. You will develop insight and anchor skills to work through life's ‘curve balls’.
0800 627 004 x59 View 0800 627 004 x59
Photo of Lilian Teresa Jennings, Counsellor, MNZCCA
Lilian Teresa Jennings
Counsellor, MNZCCA
Thames 3500
I love working with families and individuals are experiencing difficulties in life. People who are searching for meaning to life and wanting to achieve their full potential in life. Individuals searching for answers or questions in regard to Grief and Loss, Spiritually and Christianity, Spiritual abuse are welcome.
I love working with families and individuals are experiencing difficulties in life. People who are searching for meaning to life and wanting to achieve their full potential in life. Individuals searching for answers or questions in regard to Grief and Loss, Spiritually and Christianity, Spiritual abuse are welcome.
0800 627 003 x90 View 0800 627 003 x90
Photo of Wendy Whitehouse - About Balance Counselling, Counsellor, MNZAC
I support my clients with: Anxiety & depression Support during and after a cancer diagnosis Pre- and postnatal challenges Loss & grief Relationship and communication issues Workplace stress and transition Life changes and identity shifts Self-development, goal setting, and planning for the future Creating a grounded, meaningful life balance
Kia ora, I’m Wendy. I’ve always been passionate about helping people find their potential and purpose, not just to get through hard times, but to create lasting change that makes life feel more meaningful and fulfilling.
I support my clients with: Anxiety & depression Support during and after a cancer diagnosis Pre- and postnatal challenges Loss & grief Relationship and communication issues Workplace stress and transition Life changes and identity shifts Self-development, goal setting, and planning for the future Creating a grounded, meaningful life balance
Kia ora, I’m Wendy. I’ve always been passionate about helping people find their potential and purpose, not just to get through hard times, but to create lasting change that makes life feel more meaningful and fulfilling.
0800 452 530 x48 View 0800 452 530 x48
Photo of Stephen Schaapveld, Psychologist, MSc
Stephen Schaapveld
Psychologist, MSc
1 Endorsed
Auckland 1021
I am a highly experienced New Zealand trained and registered Psychologist who holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Health Psychology, a Masters of Science in Psychology with First Class Honours, and a Bachelor of Science from The University of Auckland.
I am a highly experienced New Zealand trained and registered Psychologist who holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Health Psychology, a Masters of Science in Psychology with First Class Honours, and a Bachelor of Science from The University of Auckland.
0800 627 003 x76 View 0800 627 003 x76
Cancer Counsellors
How does cancer affect mental health?
A cancer diagnosis is a major life event that can significantly influence the mental health of any individual. Being diagnosed with cancer often introduces a sense of uncertainty about the future, which can cause clients to experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, and significant distress. Many cancer patients may also worry about the toll that their diagnosis may have on their family, their physical health, their job, and their financial situation. The compounding of such stressors can also decrease mental health in clients and may lead to additional symptoms that can influence mental health, such as sleeping difficulties or social withdrawal.

What is the best psychological therapy for cancer patients?
The best type of psychological therapy for cancer patients is highly dependent on the needs of the individual. The therapy type that a client benefits from may also depend on what stage of the cancer journey they are in. Recently diagnosed cancer patients, for instance, may benefit from therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which can help clients develop skills to manage the emotional distress that comes with a cancer diagnosis. Alternatively, cancer patients further along in their journey may benefit from therapies like Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) or other forms of mindfulness therapy to help manage symptoms or physical pain associated with treatment. Clients may also consider group therapy, which offers cancer patients an opportunity to receive support from other individuals dealing with a cancer diagnosis.

Are there any risks or drawbacks in going to therapy while dealing with cancer?
Although attending therapy while dealing with a cancer diagnosis can be helpful, one major concern for cancer patients can be the financial cost of seeking therapy. Many therapists are out-of-network, meaning they do not accept insurance, and thus clients are expected to pay the entirety of the session fee. Since many cancer patients may be out of work as a result of their diagnosis or cancer treatment regimen, the costs of therapy sessions can be substantial. Luckily, many cancer centers and local clinics may offer free or substantially reduced-cost counselling services to cancer patients and their families. In addition, cancer patients may be eligible for grants or other forms of funding from local agencies and nonprofits to seek therapy for their cancer diagnosis. Such opportunities can be very helpful for cancer patients, as they allow clients to obtain the benefits of therapy without the financial strain.

How long does cancer therapy typically last?
The length of cancer therapy depends on the needs of each client. In some cases, cancer patients may only require therapeutic support during the period following their initial diagnosis—to help manage the uncertainty and shock of a cancer diagnosis. In other cases, clients may choose to receive therapy throughout their treatment, and even following, their cancer journey. Pursuing therapy for a longer period of time can help clients develop a deeper relationship with their therapist and provide opportunity to process the challenges presented by cancer treatment, such as physical pain, and challenges associated with cancer survivorship, such as ongoing identity concerns, physical limitations, or relationship challenges.