Couples Counselling Therapists in Otago

Photo of Nicola Carroll, Psychologist, MA
Nicola Carroll
Psychologist, MA
I specialise in trauma, anxiety, and relationships, and have a special interest in perinatal mental health.
I use evidence-based approaches (including CBT, EMDR, DBT, and schema therapy) to help you explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviour, develop more effective coping skills, reach your goals, and improve your overall wellbeing and happiness. I’m trained in Kaupapa Māori philosophies and frequently engage in professional supervision and training to upskill.
I specialise in trauma, anxiety, and relationships, and have a special interest in perinatal mental health.
I use evidence-based approaches (including CBT, EMDR, DBT, and schema therapy) to help you explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviour, develop more effective coping skills, reach your goals, and improve your overall wellbeing and happiness. I’m trained in Kaupapa Māori philosophies and frequently engage in professional supervision and training to upskill.
0800 447 359 x90 View 0800 447 359 x90
Photo of Alice Beattie, Counsellor, MNZAC
Alice Beattie
Counsellor, MNZAC
Alexandra 9320
Waitlist for new clients
I am a down to earth, kind and practical therapist who enjoys building others up and equipping them to achieve healthy relationship with themselves and others.
My passion is to create a space for others to explore their concerns or challenges and feel comfortable doing so as we work together towards your preferred goals ultimately supporting overall wellness. It can be a stepping out of the boat experience to talk to a professional about what troubles us, so I try to make the 'process' as easy as possible. We all struggle in many ways (normal!) and often, don't know what we don't know so upskilling in self-care or healthy thinking or relational wellness is something we all need to do from time to time to continue moving forward in life in ways that give our lives meaning and colour.
I am a down to earth, kind and practical therapist who enjoys building others up and equipping them to achieve healthy relationship with themselves and others.
My passion is to create a space for others to explore their concerns or challenges and feel comfortable doing so as we work together towards your preferred goals ultimately supporting overall wellness. It can be a stepping out of the boat experience to talk to a professional about what troubles us, so I try to make the 'process' as easy as possible. We all struggle in many ways (normal!) and often, don't know what we don't know so upskilling in self-care or healthy thinking or relational wellness is something we all need to do from time to time to continue moving forward in life in ways that give our lives meaning and colour.
0800 447 264 x96 View 0800 447 264 x96
Photo of Diante Fuchs, Psychologist, MA
Diante Fuchs
Psychologist, MA
As a Clinical Psychologist, I specialise in guiding individuals and couples towards profound personal insight and behavioural transformation.
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.
As a Clinical Psychologist, I specialise in guiding individuals and couples towards profound personal insight and behavioural transformation.
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 James Andrew Howey - James Howey, Counselling and Supervision Services, Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
My areas of specialisation include couples work, family work, trauma, men’s work, mid-life crisis, personality insight and supervision, both clinical and professional.
My clinical work includes; Couples Counselling, Family Counselling, Supervision both Clinical and Professional, Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Counselling, Mid-life ‘Crisis’ & Reintegration work, Counselling with Teenagers, Grief Counselling, lgbtqi Informed Counselling, Counselling with Individuals, Families and Friends affected by Suicide
My areas of specialisation include couples work, family work, trauma, men’s work, mid-life crisis, personality insight and supervision, both clinical and professional.
My clinical work includes; Couples Counselling, Family Counselling, Supervision both Clinical and Professional, Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Counselling, Mid-life ‘Crisis’ & Reintegration work, Counselling with Teenagers, Grief Counselling, lgbtqi Informed Counselling, Counselling with Individuals, Families and Friends affected by Suicide
0800 447 264 x75 View 0800 447 264 x75
Photo of Michèle Lacroix, Counsellor, MA, MNZAC
Michèle Lacroix
Counsellor, MA, MNZAC
Wanaka 9305
As comfortable with couples as with individuals.
Hi! I've been working in mental health in Europe and NZ for many years, holding different roles and supporting people from all walks of life. As counsellor I provide a safe space for you to explore past and present experiences related to trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, migration related distress – topics I came to understand deeply through my own life experience, studies and training. My approach is ‘person centered’ and eclectic, which means that my focus is on you, while supporting the counselling process with different modalities.
As comfortable with couples as with individuals.
Hi! I've been working in mental health in Europe and NZ for many years, holding different roles and supporting people from all walks of life. As counsellor I provide a safe space for you to explore past and present experiences related to trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, migration related distress – topics I came to understand deeply through my own life experience, studies and training. My approach is ‘person centered’ and eclectic, which means that my focus is on you, while supporting the counselling process with different modalities.
0800 447 264 x19 View 0800 447 264 x19
Photo of Kelsey Powell, Counsellor, MA, MNZAC
Kelsey Powell
Counsellor, MA, MNZAC
1 Endorsed
Have you've been carrying a lot and you're ready to finally start facing it all? Something has come to a head and you're thinking, "It's finally time." The good news is that you don't have to navigate it all on your own. The even better news is we can take it one step at a time so it doesn't feel quite as overwhelming as it may first seem. Rest assured, compassion and empathy are a core part of my approach to ensure you feel safe and supported through your healing journey. We can work together to understand your experience at a deeper level and build healthy coping skills to move forward.
Have you've been carrying a lot and you're ready to finally start facing it all? Something has come to a head and you're thinking, "It's finally time." The good news is that you don't have to navigate it all on your own. The even better news is we can take it one step at a time so it doesn't feel quite as overwhelming as it may first seem. Rest assured, compassion and empathy are a core part of my approach to ensure you feel safe and supported through your healing journey. We can work together to understand your experience at a deeper level and build healthy coping skills to move forward.
0800 468 212 x20 View 0800 468 212 x20
Photo of Deb Phillips, Counsellor
Deb Phillips
Counsellor
I’m formally trained in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy as well as a number of other therapeutic models to tackle a diverse range of difficulties including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship problems, parenting challenges, childhood difficulties, postnatal depression, attachment difficulties and more.
I work using a range of therapeutic models including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Circle of Security Parenting, Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction and Self-Compassion in therapy.
I’m formally trained in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy as well as a number of other therapeutic models to tackle a diverse range of difficulties including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship problems, parenting challenges, childhood difficulties, postnatal depression, attachment difficulties and more.
I work using a range of therapeutic models including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Circle of Security Parenting, Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction and Self-Compassion in therapy.
0800 627 003 x72 View 0800 627 003 x72
Photo of Araxi Mavridis, Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Araxi Mavridis
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
I work with clients who may be struggling with anxiety, anger, addictions, relationship issues, etc .
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 work with clients who may be struggling with anxiety, anger, addictions, relationship issues, etc .
we all experience some type of setbacks during our lifetime. Things like anxiety, identity crisis, grief, break ups, etc. having an impartial, non-judgmental with a counsellor can help gain clarity, understanding and tools to work with the issue.
0800 627 024 x65 View 0800 627 024 x65
Photo of Georgia Harrison
Georgia Harrison
Verified Verified
Online Only
Please contact me via email, rather than phone call. Cheers.
Please contact me via email, rather than phone call. Cheers.
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Photo of Dr. Shelley Harvill - Shelley Harvill - Rainbow Consulting, Psychologist, PhD
Shelley Harvill - Rainbow Consulting
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
She works with individual, couples and people in alternative relationship structures.
Shelley obtained a Doctorate of Psychology and completed post grad work in Nova Scotia Canada in 2010. She is a NZ registered clinical psychologist & served in the role of Clinical Manager of a National DBT Service. DBT is an integration of western and eastern psychological philosophies and along with EMDR and CBT based prolonged exposure, is one of Shelley’s preferred therapeutic models for working with emotional regulation, complex needs and trauma.
She works with individual, couples and people in alternative relationship structures.
Shelley obtained a Doctorate of Psychology and completed post grad work in Nova Scotia Canada in 2010. She is a NZ registered clinical psychologist & served in the role of Clinical Manager of a National DBT Service. DBT is an integration of western and eastern psychological philosophies and along with EMDR and CBT based prolonged exposure, is one of Shelley’s preferred therapeutic models for working with emotional regulation, complex needs and trauma.
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Photo of Hannah Wilkes - The Real Room, Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
The Real Room
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Many people come to counselling during times of loss, relationship changes, identity shifts, or when life simply no longer feels the same.
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.
Many people come to counselling during times of loss, relationship changes, identity shifts, or when life simply no longer feels the same.
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 Dr Paul Duignan, Psychologist, PhD
Dr Paul Duignan
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
I provide practical tools to manage stress, address life's challenges, resolve career and relationship problems, and address worry, sadness, and meaning-of-life issues
I work with those facing stress and life issues, with organisations & leaders (see Leaders.DrPaul.Online) and supervise professionals (see Supervision.DrPaul.Online). More than just counselling, as a Registered Clinical Psychologist, I offer structured assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based solutions. Clients' feedback: 'Paul was able to articulate what was going on for me'. I highly recommend him. His approach was 'methodical, thoughtful, interesting and implementable, and made me feel comfortable and listened to'. 'Seeing Paul, I am now more confident, relaxed and a better person as a result' (see Feedback.DrPaul.Online).
I provide practical tools to manage stress, address life's challenges, resolve career and relationship problems, and address worry, sadness, and meaning-of-life issues
I work with those facing stress and life issues, with organisations & leaders (see Leaders.DrPaul.Online) and supervise professionals (see Supervision.DrPaul.Online). More than just counselling, as a Registered Clinical Psychologist, I offer structured assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based solutions. Clients' feedback: 'Paul was able to articulate what was going on for me'. I highly recommend him. His approach was 'methodical, thoughtful, interesting and implementable, and made me feel comfortable and listened to'. 'Seeing Paul, I am now more confident, relaxed and a better person as a result' (see Feedback.DrPaul.Online).
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Photo of Tersia Delene Woodenberg - Soulcheck Holistic Therapy, MCouns
Soulcheck Holistic Therapy
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Acknowledging the principle that humans are interdependent beings, we understand that isolation is not sustainable; we rely on healthy relationships, community, connection and empathy for our well-being.
Whether you need support in individual counselling, couples therapy, men's health, anxiety, depression, anger management, stress, trauma, emotional and psychological abuse, low self-esteem, personal development, grief and loss, I offer a warm, inclusive, safe, non-judgmental environment for you.
Acknowledging the principle that humans are interdependent beings, we understand that isolation is not sustainable; we rely on healthy relationships, community, connection and empathy for our well-being.
Whether you need support in individual counselling, couples therapy, men's health, anxiety, depression, anger management, stress, trauma, emotional and psychological abuse, low self-esteem, personal development, grief and loss, I offer a warm, inclusive, safe, non-judgmental environment for you.
0800 468 212 x74 View 0800 468 212 x74
Photo of Glenda Irwin, Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Glenda Irwin
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Serves Area
I help individuals to thrive - predominately in relationship.
I'll take a Case Formation from you - to be aware of your generic journey. The current issue will be discussed and an intervention will be offered at that first session. Thereafter I follow the Treatment Plan I have written for you - however, I will deviate in accordance with your session needs. Call for an outline of my approach.
I help individuals to thrive - predominately in relationship.
I'll take a Case Formation from you - to be aware of your generic journey. The current issue will be discussed and an intervention will be offered at that first session. Thereafter I follow the Treatment Plan I have written for you - however, I will deviate in accordance with your session needs. Call for an outline of my approach.
0800 627 004 x78 View 0800 627 004 x78
Photo of Charmaine Bright - Charmaine Bright @ Bright Wellbeing Counselling
Charmaine Bright @ Bright Wellbeing Counselling
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach draws on traditional and alternative counselling modalities. I use these approaches to empower my clients and my practice is strongly grounded in spirituality and energy psychology. Nourishment and healing are facilitated through energy-integration, visualisation, inner-child work and support in recovering a sense of self.
My approach draws on traditional and alternative counselling modalities. I use these approaches to empower my clients and my practice is strongly grounded in spirituality and energy psychology. Nourishment and healing are facilitated through energy-integration, visualisation, inner-child work and support in recovering a sense of self.
0800 627 004 x98 View 0800 627 004 x98
Photo of Tabitha Phillips, Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Tabitha Phillips
Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Serves Area
I have some availability for both couples counselling and individuals.
Our first session will focus on clarifying what brings you to counselling and working with you to plan a way ahead. I aim to provide a warm, empathetic and supportive space but if you don’t feel we align, I can help you find a different therapist. I am straightforward and can be direct if need be.
I have some availability for both couples counselling and individuals.
Our first session will focus on clarifying what brings you to counselling and working with you to plan a way ahead. I aim to provide a warm, empathetic and supportive space but if you don’t feel we align, I can help you find a different therapist. I am straightforward and can be direct if need be.
0800 468 212 x90 View 0800 468 212 x90
Photo of Elif Todd, Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Elif Todd
Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Serves Area
We all go through difficult times in our lives when we might feel unfulfilled, overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, depressed, dealing with loss, facing a major life-change, or struggling with relationship dynamics.
My strong academic foundation combines with a wealth of professional and life experience (I have lived and worked in 8 countries, raising a family in 5 of these) to inform my practice. I work with warmth, empathy, authenticity, and a genuine belief in the potential for growth. I practise collaboratively, honouring your needs and preferences.
We all go through difficult times in our lives when we might feel unfulfilled, overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, depressed, dealing with loss, facing a major life-change, or struggling with relationship dynamics.
My strong academic foundation combines with a wealth of professional and life experience (I have lived and worked in 8 countries, raising a family in 5 of these) to inform my practice. I work with warmth, empathy, authenticity, and a genuine belief in the potential for growth. I practise collaboratively, honouring your needs and preferences.
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Photo of Karen Bernal Jara, Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Karen Bernal Jara
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Serves Area
If you’re navigating trauma, anxiety, stress, or major life transitions such as migration or parenthood, I’m here to support you. If you’re looking for an ACC sensitive Claims provider or a safe, culturally sensitive, and compassionate space to process your experiences and find effective ways to manage your emotions. Together, we’ll work toward healing, building resilience, and gaining clarity. My goal is to help you feel heard, validated, and empowered, so you can move forward with confidence and achieve the growth you’re seeking.
If you’re navigating trauma, anxiety, stress, or major life transitions such as migration or parenthood, I’m here to support you. If you’re looking for an ACC sensitive Claims provider or a safe, culturally sensitive, and compassionate space to process your experiences and find effective ways to manage your emotions. Together, we’ll work toward healing, building resilience, and gaining clarity. My goal is to help you feel heard, validated, and empowered, so you can move forward with confidence and achieve the growth you’re seeking.
0800 627 050 x17 View 0800 627 050 x17
Photo of Naomi Carleton, Psychologist
Naomi Carleton
Psychologist
Online Only
Naomi is an Australian and NZ registered psychologist with 18 years experience working with adults, adolescents and children. Naomi is known for her warmth, understanding and approachability. She enjoys supporting and working alongside her clients to improve their quality of life and help them achieve their own personal goals.
Naomi is an Australian and NZ registered psychologist with 18 years experience working with adults, adolescents and children. Naomi is known for her warmth, understanding and approachability. She enjoys supporting and working alongside her clients to improve their quality of life and help them achieve their own personal goals.
0800 327 477 View 0800 327 477
Photo of Kirandeep Kaur - Abundance Wellness, Counsellor
Abundance Wellness
Counsellor
Online Only
Hello My name is Kirandeep-Compassionate Guide on Your Healing Journey Kia ora, I'm Kirandeep, a registered Social Worker and trauma-informed therapist passionate about helping you reconnect with yourself and find freedom from trauma's grip. With over five years supporting individuals through complex trauma, I've witnessed the profound transformation that happens when we address healing holistically—through mind, body, and community.
Hello My name is Kirandeep-Compassionate Guide on Your Healing Journey Kia ora, I'm Kirandeep, a registered Social Worker and trauma-informed therapist passionate about helping you reconnect with yourself and find freedom from trauma's grip. With over five years supporting individuals through complex trauma, I've witnessed the profound transformation that happens when we address healing holistically—through mind, body, and community.
0800 447 264 x68 View 0800 447 264 x68
Couples Counselling Counsellors
Does couples counseling work?
Research shows that couples counseling is effective; it can reduce relationship distress and improve emotional awareness, communication, empathy, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction. For example, emotionally focused therapy was found to be effective for about 75 percent of couples, and those benefits lasted at least two years.

When should a couple seek counseling?
Couples can benefit from counseling if they consistently struggle in their relationship. They may have lost the ability to communicate effectively, become entrenched in harmful patterns, begun to fight more than usual, broken the other’s trust, suffered from a mental or physical illness, or faced any number of other challenges. Many therapists offer free consultations, so if a couple isn’t sure whether therapy is necessary, asking directly can provide clarity.

How can I get my partner to go to couples therapy?
The decision to seek couples therapy is often driven by one partner, who then convinces the other to participate. When discussing the idea, the initiator should be direct and assertive. They can state the problems they see and explain how the relationship would benefit from therapy. In more serious cases, they can also explain how their relationship may suffer without making any changes or seeking professional help.

How does a couple prepare for couples counseling?
The anticipation of beginning couples counseling can be difficult—sometimes more difficult than the first session itself. Taking a few moments to reflect can allay those concerns: What are the current challenges? When and how did they begin? What do they want the relationship to look like in the future? Reflecting on these questions can help individuals or couples articulate their goals. Of course, the therapist will also ask questions and guide couples through the process.