Therapists for Children in Otago
My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults seeking clarity on their unique neurodevelopmental or learning profile.
I provide comprehensive ADHD, ASD, Cognitive, and Learning assessments (e.g., Dyslexia), as well as general mental health evaluations. My goal is to provide clinical clarity, helping you understand how your brain works and which strategies will actually help. Note: I am currently accepting referrals for assessment only, not ongoing therapy.
My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults seeking clarity on their unique neurodevelopmental or learning profile.
I provide comprehensive ADHD, ASD, Cognitive, and Learning assessments (e.g., Dyslexia), as well as general mental health evaluations. My goal is to provide clinical clarity, helping you understand how your brain works and which strategies will actually help. Note: I am currently accepting referrals for assessment only, not ongoing therapy.
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.
I am a psychologist who offers, warm, evidence-based assessment and intervention for learning difficulties and behavioural challenges; helping children and their families clearly understand strengths, needs and practical next steps with confidence and care.
As a psychologist, I specialise in solution-focused, ecological assessment and intervention, looking beyond test scores to understand the individual across contexts. I help you make sense of strengths and challenges, and translate assessment findings into clear, practical strategies that support confidence, progress and wellbeing.
I am a psychologist who offers, warm, evidence-based assessment and intervention for learning difficulties and behavioural challenges; helping children and their families clearly understand strengths, needs and practical next steps with confidence and care.
As a psychologist, I specialise in solution-focused, ecological assessment and intervention, looking beyond test scores to understand the individual across contexts. I help you make sense of strengths and challenges, and translate assessment findings into clear, practical strategies that support confidence, progress and wellbeing.
By focusing on the individual child’s strengths and using a play-based approach, we foster independence and help children function positively in every aspect of their daily life.
Assessment and interactive sessions will predominantly be within the home environment as we are a family-centered service. However, I do work within education settings as required. Sessions are a combination of 1:1 with the child, with siblings, as a family unit or with caregivers. I also support adults with accessing and/or returning to everyday activities.
By focusing on the individual child’s strengths and using a play-based approach, we foster independence and help children function positively in every aspect of their daily life.
Assessment and interactive sessions will predominantly be within the home environment as we are a family-centered service. However, I do work within education settings as required. Sessions are a combination of 1:1 with the child, with siblings, as a family unit or with caregivers. I also support adults with accessing and/or returning to everyday activities.
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.
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.
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.
I am a Nelson-based Psychotherapist offering short-term and long-term psychotherapy for adults, children and young people.
I offer a warm, non-judgmental and confidential environment to enable my clients to work through any past or present difficulties which they may be struggling with. 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.
I offer a warm, non-judgmental and confidential environment to enable my clients to work through any past or present difficulties which they may be struggling with. 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.
Qualified child and adolescent mental health clinician.
Child and Adolescent Mental Health and Behavioural Issues / Child and Family Therapy / Sex and Couples Therapy. Child And Adolescent Assessments And Treatment. Specialising in trauma, neurodiversity, and relationships.
Qualified child and adolescent mental health clinician.
Child and Adolescent Mental Health and Behavioural Issues / Child and Family Therapy / Sex and Couples Therapy. Child And Adolescent Assessments And Treatment. Specialising in trauma, neurodiversity, and relationships.
Kia ora, Talofa, Hello! I am passionate about supporting people in the LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and polyamorous/CNM alternative relationship structure communities. I apply an intersectional lens to understanding experiences of distress. I enjoy working with and resourcing gender-diverse humans, and exploring ways to enhance gender euphoria. I work with individuals (16+), whānau (families), and couples/triads/polycules. I bring creativity, curiosity, and unconditional positive regard to the people I work with. It is a privilege to walk alongside people on their life journey and to bear witness to their growth and development.
Kia ora, Talofa, Hello! I am passionate about supporting people in the LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and polyamorous/CNM alternative relationship structure communities. I apply an intersectional lens to understanding experiences of distress. I enjoy working with and resourcing gender-diverse humans, and exploring ways to enhance gender euphoria. I work with individuals (16+), whānau (families), and couples/triads/polycules. I bring creativity, curiosity, and unconditional positive regard to the people I work with. It is a privilege to walk alongside people on their life journey and to bear witness to their growth and development.
You might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or navigating a difficult life change and unsure where to begin. Many people come to counselling during times of loss, relationship changes, identity shifts, or when life simply no longer feels the same. Grief can follow bereavement, but it can also appear in quieter ways through life transitions, health changes, or the loss of a version of life we expected.
I’m Hannah Wilkes, a Bachelor-qualified counsellor and NZAC member. 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
You might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or navigating a difficult life change and unsure where to begin. Many people come to counselling during times of loss, relationship changes, identity shifts, or when life simply no longer feels the same. Grief can follow bereavement, but it can also appear in quieter ways through life transitions, health changes, or the loss of a version of life we expected.
I’m Hannah Wilkes, a Bachelor-qualified counsellor and NZAC member. 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
I have substantial experience working with adults, children, adolescents and family.
20/4/26 Limited spaces available! I enjoy working with people from a diverse set of backgrounds and ages. I believe that therapy can bring meaningful change for those I work with. You may be wondering if therapy is the right approach for you, and not know where to start or what to say. That is completely normal! My aim is to create a safe space where we can explore what brings you to therapy. I provide a personalised flexible approach to help people get the most out of sessions, and offer practical tools that can be used in everyday life. I offer sessions outside business hours for those who need flexibility. Christchurch or Online.
I have substantial experience working with adults, children, adolescents and family.
20/4/26 Limited spaces available! I enjoy working with people from a diverse set of backgrounds and ages. I believe that therapy can bring meaningful change for those I work with. You may be wondering if therapy is the right approach for you, and not know where to start or what to say. That is completely normal! My aim is to create a safe space where we can explore what brings you to therapy. I provide a personalised flexible approach to help people get the most out of sessions, and offer practical tools that can be used in everyday life. I offer sessions outside business hours for those who need flexibility. Christchurch or Online.
She is experienced in working with a variety of challenging behaviours across adults, adolescents, and children in a range of settings, providing a high level of behavioural assessments and interventions.
Following a rigorous assessment, she implements function-based interventions that are individually tailored and can work with families to achieve this in the case of children/adolescents.
She is experienced in working with a variety of challenging behaviours across adults, adolescents, and children in a range of settings, providing a high level of behavioural assessments and interventions.
Following a rigorous assessment, she implements function-based interventions that are individually tailored and can work with families to achieve this in the case of children/adolescents.
Alex has specialist expertise in the areas of Child and Family Psychology, Organisational Psychology / Workplace consulting, Health Psychology as well as General Psychology.
Alex is a New Zealand fully trained, Registered Occupational Health Psychologist. With her breadth of extensive training, research and internships, she has developed special interests in different areas of psychology. Alex's extensive training and experience allowed me to develop a commitment to excellence and appreciation of the vulnerability, diversity, and presentation of people. For her clients, her main assets are my approachable demeanour, emphasis on wellbeing, and straightforward appraisal of their unique needs and situation.
Alex has specialist expertise in the areas of Child and Family Psychology, Organisational Psychology / Workplace consulting, Health Psychology as well as General Psychology.
Alex is a New Zealand fully trained, Registered Occupational Health Psychologist. With her breadth of extensive training, research and internships, she has developed special interests in different areas of psychology. Alex's extensive training and experience allowed me to develop a commitment to excellence and appreciation of the vulnerability, diversity, and presentation of people. For her clients, her main assets are my approachable demeanour, emphasis on wellbeing, and straightforward appraisal of their unique needs and situation.
Online Therapists
I’m Bianca Durand, a Counselling Psychologist deeply committed to helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges. With over eight years of experience, I am passionate about providing a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, develop resilience, and discover your strengths. My approach to therapy is holistic and client-centered, tailoring each session to meet your unique needs. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, or simply looking to make positive changes in your life, I am here to support you every step of the way.
I’m Bianca Durand, a Counselling Psychologist deeply committed to helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges. With over eight years of experience, I am passionate about providing a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, develop resilience, and discover your strengths. My approach to therapy is holistic and client-centered, tailoring each session to meet your unique needs. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, or simply looking to make positive changes in your life, I am here to support you every step of the way.
Welcome! I’m Vanja, and I’m glad you’re here. I believe that everyone has the potential to thrive and live a fulfilling life, even when things get tough. With a background in counselling I’m here to offer you a warm, understanding space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Life can be challenging, and sometimes it’s hard to navigate those rough patches alone.
Welcome! I’m Vanja, and I’m glad you’re here. I believe that everyone has the potential to thrive and live a fulfilling life, even when things get tough. With a background in counselling I’m here to offer you a warm, understanding space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Life can be challenging, and sometimes it’s hard to navigate those rough patches alone.
Melanie believes in the importance of tailoring the psychological therapy process to suit the client’s needs, including respecting the client’s pace, and to provide the client with an impactful experience to facilitate change and improved mental well-being. Melanie regularly attends seminars, workshops, symposiums, trainings, and courses to expand her knowledge and range of expertise to ensure that clients are offered the most up to date, evidenced-based treatment options. She continues to hone her proficiency in EMDR therapy and Ego-State therapy with a focus on addressing the intricate dynamics of trauma and dissociation.
Melanie believes in the importance of tailoring the psychological therapy process to suit the client’s needs, including respecting the client’s pace, and to provide the client with an impactful experience to facilitate change and improved mental well-being. Melanie regularly attends seminars, workshops, symposiums, trainings, and courses to expand her knowledge and range of expertise to ensure that clients are offered the most up to date, evidenced-based treatment options. She continues to hone her proficiency in EMDR therapy and Ego-State therapy with a focus on addressing the intricate dynamics of trauma and dissociation.
Kids or teenagers with wild imaginations, boundless energy and insatiable curiosity.
I help folks to understand and appreciate themselves. To work with their brains instead of trying to force themselves to be like everyone else. To embrace their unique skills, harness their strengths and corral their innate creativity as they reconnect with their own identity, values and self-worth.
Kids or teenagers with wild imaginations, boundless energy and insatiable curiosity.
I help folks to understand and appreciate themselves. To work with their brains instead of trying to force themselves to be like everyone else. To embrace their unique skills, harness their strengths and corral their innate creativity as they reconnect with their own identity, values and self-worth.
Are you, your child, or your whānau finding life feels heavier or more overwhelming than it should?
I offer person-centred approaches, drawing on a range of evidence-informed approaches to meet the individual needs, preferences, and goals of each client.
My work supports emotional understanding, coping skills, and overall psychological wellbeing.
Are you, your child, or your whānau finding life feels heavier or more overwhelming than it should?
I offer person-centred approaches, drawing on a range of evidence-informed approaches to meet the individual needs, preferences, and goals of each client.
My work supports emotional understanding, coping skills, and overall psychological wellbeing.
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.
FAQ - About Child Therapy
When does a child need to see a therapist?
Children naturally experience emotional ups and downs. Sometimes, though, they need support from a professional. A child may benefit from therapy if their emotions or behaviours change significantly within a short period of time. For example, if a child usually spends time with friends after school but begins isolating in their room, further inquiry is warranted. Other areas for concern include altered sleep patterns, lack of appetite, intense anger, irritability, or hopelessness, or developmental regression in young children (bedwetting, thumb-sucking).
What can a child therapist help with?
A therapist can help with any difficult experience a child may encounter growing up, including learning problems or anxiety related to school, relationship challenges with friends or parents, bullying, intense emotions or phobias, divorce and family dynamics, or the death of a pet or loved one. A therapist can help children process their experience and develop coping skills in an age-appropriate way
What therapy types are most suitable for children?
Children can benefit from different forms of therapy, including family therapy, parent-child interaction therapy, play therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and exposure therapy, depending on their condition. Play therapy is a great option for younger children who may not be able to fully articulate their feelings. In this approach, kids play with toys and games while a therapist observes and helps the child express their emotions and develop coping skills.
Do I need to attend therapy with my child?
Parents are an integral part of a child’s therapy, but the specifics of their involvement vary. If your child is young, you may attend most or all sessions; if your child is older, you may attend a few sessions or none; sometimes a therapist may ask you to have a session on your own. Whatever the arrangement, you should expect to work collaboratively with the therapist, your child, and your family members to take steps to help support your child.
How can I tell if a therapist is a good fit for my child?
A child needs to feel comfortable opening up about their thoughts and feelings, so if your child feels a sense of comfort, ease, and trust with their therapist, that’s a great sign. In addition, a therapist is a good fit for your child if the two can communicate well together; a clinician should be able to communicate clearly, effectively, and in an age-appropriate manner.