Domestic Abuse Therapists in Otago
I have experience working with people who are struggling with a wide range of difficulties, including trauma, PTSD, sexualised abuse and relationships.
I was born and raised in Te-Whanganui-a-Tara and moved to Ōtepoti in 2025, I live here now with my wife and our cat Scrungle. I identify as queer and use she/her pronouns. In my free time, I love cooking and enjoying board games with friends.
I encourage you to reach out if you have any questions or would like to learn more about how we can work together.
I have experience working with people who are struggling with a wide range of difficulties, including trauma, PTSD, sexualised abuse and relationships.
I was born and raised in Te-Whanganui-a-Tara and moved to Ōtepoti in 2025, I live here now with my wife and our cat Scrungle. I identify as queer and use she/her pronouns. In my free time, I love cooking and enjoying board games with friends.
I encourage you to reach out if you have any questions or would like to learn more about how we can work together.
Finding the right Therapist is a bit like finding the perfect pair of shoes - it has to be the right fit to get to where you want to go. I provide a space that is professional, evidence based, and deeply compassionate. My work is informed by the belief that every person has an innate capacity for change when given the right environment.
Finding the right Therapist is a bit like finding the perfect pair of shoes - it has to be the right fit to get to where you want to go. I provide a space that is professional, evidence based, and deeply compassionate. My work is informed by the belief that every person has an innate capacity for change when given the right environment.
Hi I have been practicing working with people towards change for 20t years now. In counselling , group work, external supervision. During this time I have learnt a lot to put into my kete of knowledge to help with you to move forward to the life you will happy with.
Hi I have been practicing working with people towards change for 20t years now. In counselling , group work, external supervision. During this time I have learnt a lot to put into my kete of knowledge to help with you to move forward to the life you will happy with.
Seeking therapy is not only for those with mental health struggles, but effective therapy can be extremely worthwhile for many and critically necessary for some. I believe that therapy can help manage life’s many challenges and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life, providing us insight into our inner most thoughts and feelings and how to cope with them. As a Nurse Therapist (Psychotherapy Graduate), I have trained in different therapeutic modalities to work with a wide range of clients of various age groups who struggle with complex trauma, addictions, depression, anxiety, sexuality and sexual trauma
Seeking therapy is not only for those with mental health struggles, but effective therapy can be extremely worthwhile for many and critically necessary for some. I believe that therapy can help manage life’s many challenges and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life, providing us insight into our inner most thoughts and feelings and how to cope with them. As a Nurse Therapist (Psychotherapy Graduate), I have trained in different therapeutic modalities to work with a wide range of clients of various age groups who struggle with complex trauma, addictions, depression, anxiety, sexuality and sexual trauma
Kia ora! I’m Nicola, a registered Psychologist based in Tāhuna/Queenstown. I grew up & trained in Scotland then worked in various countries, before settling here around 10 years ago. I have 15+ years of experience in psychological assessment and treatment. I want to give clients the best possible experience and outcomes in therapy. I specialise in trauma, anxiety, and relationships, and have a special interest in perinatal mental health. I combine a range of therapeutic techniques to make real and lasting changes. I offer flexible delivery methods. I am an ACC Sensitive Claims and ACC Maternal Birth Injury Provider.
Kia ora! I’m Nicola, a registered Psychologist based in Tāhuna/Queenstown. I grew up & trained in Scotland then worked in various countries, before settling here around 10 years ago. I have 15+ years of experience in psychological assessment and treatment. I want to give clients the best possible experience and outcomes in therapy. I specialise in trauma, anxiety, and relationships, and have a special interest in perinatal mental health. I combine a range of therapeutic techniques to make real and lasting changes. I offer flexible delivery methods. I am an ACC Sensitive Claims and ACC Maternal Birth Injury Provider.
Further I have experience working with LGBTQIA people, and those who have experienced family violence.
In my counselling work, I prioritise you as the expert in your own life and learn about your current position in what you’re experiencing. In time, we can work together to build pathways toward a life that is empowering to you, your family, and your community. I use methods such as externalising problems, re-authoring your stories, and working with community
Further I have experience working with LGBTQIA people, and those who have experienced family violence.
In my counselling work, I prioritise you as the expert in your own life and learn about your current position in what you’re experiencing. In time, we can work together to build pathways toward a life that is empowering to you, your family, and your community. I use methods such as externalising problems, re-authoring your stories, and working with community
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.
Kia ora, ko Aroha tōku ingoa. He uri ahau nō Ngāti Raukawa. You might be holding things together for everyone else, while quietly carrying more than people can see. I work with adults navigating stress, anxiety, low mood, relationship strain, parenting pressures, or substance use.
Kia ora, ko Aroha tōku ingoa. He uri ahau nō Ngāti Raukawa. You might be holding things together for everyone else, while quietly carrying more than people can see. I work with adults navigating stress, anxiety, low mood, relationship strain, parenting pressures, or substance use.
Kia ora and hello! I have some availability for both couples counselling and individuals. I also offer a free initial ten minute consultation by telephone.
I'm a registered counsellor with experience in addressing all kinds of concerns; including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief, anger management, stress and navigating life transitions. I have a particular interest and experience in assisting men and women who have suffered personal or intergenerational trauma, along with relationship issues.
Kia ora and hello! I have some availability for both couples counselling and individuals. I also offer a free initial ten minute consultation by telephone.
I'm a registered counsellor with experience in addressing all kinds of concerns; including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief, anger management, stress and navigating life transitions. I have a particular interest and experience in assisting men and women who have suffered personal or intergenerational trauma, along with relationship issues.
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.
My passion and purpose? To empower you to live your best Life. 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. Recognising that shifts in our circumstances, whether good or bad, can affect our, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. My holistic approach goes beyond symptom management to identify and address the root causes of your challenge. "Empowering you with holistic, client-centered strategies to achieve health, well-being, and inner healing for yourself.
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.
My passion and purpose? To empower you to live your best Life. 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. Recognising that shifts in our circumstances, whether good or bad, can affect our, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. My holistic approach goes beyond symptom management to identify and address the root causes of your challenge. "Empowering you with holistic, client-centered strategies to achieve health, well-being, and inner healing for yourself.
I can help with: Relationship challenges and intimacy issues, Sexual concerns and abuse, Trauma and attachment issues, Building healthy relationships and communication, Exploring and understanding your sexuality, Arousal problems and desire changes, Sexual pain and compulsive behaviours, Anxiety, grief, loss, and body image issues, Gender matters and menopause support
Seeking a non-judgmental sex therapist? Struggling with intimacy, low libido, trauma, or relationships? Want to improve communication, build trust, and reignite passion? Let's work together to overcome obstacles, boost confidence, and achieve fulfilling relationships. I offer confidential, empathetic support, tailoring sessions to your unique needs and goals. Take the first step towards a more satisfying sex life, stronger relationships, and increased self-awareness. Let's explore desires, boundaries, and identity in a safe space. Start your journey to empowerment, pleasure, and deeper connections.
I can help with: Relationship challenges and intimacy issues, Sexual concerns and abuse, Trauma and attachment issues, Building healthy relationships and communication, Exploring and understanding your sexuality, Arousal problems and desire changes, Sexual pain and compulsive behaviours, Anxiety, grief, loss, and body image issues, Gender matters and menopause support
Seeking a non-judgmental sex therapist? Struggling with intimacy, low libido, trauma, or relationships? Want to improve communication, build trust, and reignite passion? Let's work together to overcome obstacles, boost confidence, and achieve fulfilling relationships. I offer confidential, empathetic support, tailoring sessions to your unique needs and goals. Take the first step towards a more satisfying sex life, stronger relationships, and increased self-awareness. Let's explore desires, boundaries, and identity in a safe space. Start your journey to empowerment, pleasure, and deeper connections.
Kia ora, I'm Paola. In therapy, change comes in waves and cycles, like with the tides. I provide my clients a safe and professional environment to navigate those therapeutic tides in the smoothest way possible. I bring to the therapeutic process competence, clarity and clinical discernment for the client to be able to dive safely in the deep waters of personal transformation. Clients report that they experience tangible results as enhanced self-esteem and trust, reduced severity of symptoms as anxiety, depression, grief or mental confusion, and the restoring of their capacity for secure, and organized relationships, among others.
Kia ora, I'm Paola. In therapy, change comes in waves and cycles, like with the tides. I provide my clients a safe and professional environment to navigate those therapeutic tides in the smoothest way possible. I bring to the therapeutic process competence, clarity and clinical discernment for the client to be able to dive safely in the deep waters of personal transformation. Clients report that they experience tangible results as enhanced self-esteem and trust, reduced severity of symptoms as anxiety, depression, grief or mental confusion, and the restoring of their capacity for secure, and organized relationships, among others.
I have eight years' experience as a Psychotherapy professional specialising in developmental trauma, abuse recovery, and supporting people to realise their full potential.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by past traumas, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Do you wish to heal, grow, & reclaim your natural state of bliss & love? Are you yearning for peace, deeper connections, & a sense of wholeness? Are you intelligent, creative, sensitive, & driven to make a difference in the world? Are you longing to develop resilience so life's challenges do not shake you? Do you feel a deep desire to emerge as your true self, to reach your full potential & aliveness? Are you seeking a compassionate guide who has been there, understands your pain, & can support you in accelerating your healing journey?
I have eight years' experience as a Psychotherapy professional specialising in developmental trauma, abuse recovery, and supporting people to realise their full potential.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by past traumas, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Do you wish to heal, grow, & reclaim your natural state of bliss & love? Are you yearning for peace, deeper connections, & a sense of wholeness? Are you intelligent, creative, sensitive, & driven to make a difference in the world? Are you longing to develop resilience so life's challenges do not shake you? Do you feel a deep desire to emerge as your true self, to reach your full potential & aliveness? Are you seeking a compassionate guide who has been there, understands your pain, & can support you in accelerating your healing journey?
I work with people who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or caught in painful patterns. My clients are often high functioning people who want life to feel easier than it does. You may be experiencing the impacts of painful or traumatic experiences, or a carrying more general sense of emptiness, anxiety, or unease. Your relationships may be suffering, and want more peace and connection in your lives. Your relationship may be in crisis or distress.
I believe you're the expert on your own life and relationships. My role is to create space for difficult conversations to feel safer, patterns to be understood, and change to occur.
I work with people who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or caught in painful patterns. My clients are often high functioning people who want life to feel easier than it does. You may be experiencing the impacts of painful or traumatic experiences, or a carrying more general sense of emptiness, anxiety, or unease. Your relationships may be suffering, and want more peace and connection in your lives. Your relationship may be in crisis or distress.
I believe you're the expert on your own life and relationships. My role is to create space for difficult conversations to feel safer, patterns to be understood, and change to occur.
As Bessel van der Kolk notes, trauma is specifically an event that overwhelms the central nervous system, altering the way we process and recall memories. “Trauma is not the story of something that happened back then," he adds. "It's the current imprint of that pain, horror, and fear living inside people.” I am a well-established health professional who has dedicated my professional life working on releasing trauma in a natural, nurturing way, returning my clients to their natural state of wholeness. I call this "The Journey Home". I work from a neuroscience perspective. Harmonizing all aspects of our being Mind, Body and Soul
As Bessel van der Kolk notes, trauma is specifically an event that overwhelms the central nervous system, altering the way we process and recall memories. “Trauma is not the story of something that happened back then," he adds. "It's the current imprint of that pain, horror, and fear living inside people.” I am a well-established health professional who has dedicated my professional life working on releasing trauma in a natural, nurturing way, returning my clients to their natural state of wholeness. I call this "The Journey Home". I work from a neuroscience perspective. Harmonizing all aspects of our being Mind, Body and Soul
Therapy is a valuable resource for anyone looking to better understand themselves and navigate life’s challenges. I believe that therapy can provide the guidance and support needed to manage everyday stresses, make sense of difficult emotions, and uncover a deeper understanding of yourself. As a Therapist, my approach is to support individuals from diverse backgrounds and age groups as well as those struggling with a wide range of difficulties e.g., trauma, grief, feeling stuck or at a crossroads in your life, disordered eating, depression, anxiety, difficulty in relationships, or sexuality.
Therapy is a valuable resource for anyone looking to better understand themselves and navigate life’s challenges. I believe that therapy can provide the guidance and support needed to manage everyday stresses, make sense of difficult emotions, and uncover a deeper understanding of yourself. As a Therapist, my approach is to support individuals from diverse backgrounds and age groups as well as those struggling with a wide range of difficulties e.g., trauma, grief, feeling stuck or at a crossroads in your life, disordered eating, depression, anxiety, difficulty in relationships, or sexuality.
My clients have often been abused sexually, survived domestic abuse and/or neglect in their childhood.
I have a MA in Psychotherapy (Middlesex University, London) and a DipHIP (BCPC, Bath). My rigorous training (2010-2018) included a wide range of theory, two placements and private practice. Placements were with NHS Mental Health Teams and with The SWAN Project (alcohol and life issues). I also worked as operations manager at The Green House (sexual abuse).
My clients have often been abused sexually, survived domestic abuse and/or neglect in their childhood.
I have a MA in Psychotherapy (Middlesex University, London) and a DipHIP (BCPC, Bath). My rigorous training (2010-2018) included a wide range of theory, two placements and private practice. Placements were with NHS Mental Health Teams and with The SWAN Project (alcohol and life issues). I also worked as operations manager at The Green House (sexual abuse).
Online Therapists
Kia ora, my work is grounded in empathy, respect and genuine connection. I work alongside you at your own pace, helping you explore thoughts, feelings, emotions and experiences that may be affecting your wellbeing.
Kia ora, my work is grounded in empathy, respect and genuine connection. I work alongside you at your own pace, helping you explore thoughts, feelings, emotions and experiences that may be affecting your wellbeing.
I work with adults and adolescents who feel worn down by their inner world, often in the context of trauma, chronic stress, or long periods of needing to hold it together. Many experience anxiety, emotional overwhelm, self-criticism, or avoidance, and find that their usual coping strategies are no longer working. I understand these responses as understandable adaptations rather than personal failings, and support clients to develop greater steadiness, choice, and a more meaningful, values-aligned way of living.
I work with adults and adolescents who feel worn down by their inner world, often in the context of trauma, chronic stress, or long periods of needing to hold it together. Many experience anxiety, emotional overwhelm, self-criticism, or avoidance, and find that their usual coping strategies are no longer working. I understand these responses as understandable adaptations rather than personal failings, and support clients to develop greater steadiness, choice, and a more meaningful, values-aligned way of living.
As an individual, you might feel lost, defeated, and uncertain about what's wrong with you. The feeling of depression or anxiety may sometimes be hard to differentiate. You crave control over your life, and you want to feel better. You're tired of feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and scared. You desire peace in your life.
I work with children from the age of 6, Teenagers, and female adults, approximately. age of 40.
As an individual, you might feel lost, defeated, and uncertain about what's wrong with you. The feeling of depression or anxiety may sometimes be hard to differentiate. You crave control over your life, and you want to feel better. You're tired of feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and scared. You desire peace in your life.
I work with children from the age of 6, Teenagers, and female adults, approximately. age of 40.
Domestic Abuse Counsellors
What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?
Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognise that they have already completed the most important step. Still, the trauma of physical or emotional abuse can be difficult to process and overcome. Therapy can help survivors process trauma, grief, and difficult emotions, treat relevant mental health symptoms, and create a new framework for boundaries and relationships in the future. For some, support groups can also be an invaluable outlet for healing.
When should an individual seek help for domestic abuse?
Victims of intimate partner violence should seek help immediately. It can take substantial time, planning, energy, and courage to leave an abusive relationship, but starting the process—by seeking therapy, calling the domestic violence hotline, or simply confiding in a loved one—will help them get there. Those who have left abusive relationships but haven’t sought treatment can also greatly benefit from therapy to process and heal from the experience.
What are the consequences of staying in an abusive relationship?
Remaining in an abusive relationship has serious repercussions. In addition to the ongoing threat of physical danger and emotional abuse, research shows that intimate partner violence is associated with a range of mental health disorders including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and substance abuse. Therefore it’s important for individuals in an abusive relationship to seek help as soon as possible.
How can you get domestic abuse treatment for someone else?
It can be very complicated to identify and leave an abusive relationship; barriers include the threat of violence, financial instability, and family pressures. Those concerned about a loved one in an abusive relationship should talk to them about the situation, provide them with resources such as the domestic violence hotline, and introduce the idea of seeing a therapist due to their concern for the person’s safety and well-being.