Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapists in Otago
My name is Jess and, together with my therapy dog Odinn, I offer body-based and animal assisted counselling and therapy services. We work with adult clients across the whole wellbeing spectrum: from people who want to get more out of their life, find a deeper sense of self, or connect to their body; to those that have experienced trauma struggling with basic tasks of daily living. Many have found traditional cognition based talk therapy less helpful or do not know yet how to put their experiences into words. No matter your reasons, we are here to create a space in which we can explore where you are, what you want, and what you need.
My name is Jess and, together with my therapy dog Odinn, I offer body-based and animal assisted counselling and therapy services. We work with adult clients across the whole wellbeing spectrum: from people who want to get more out of their life, find a deeper sense of self, or connect to their body; to those that have experienced trauma struggling with basic tasks of daily living. Many have found traditional cognition based talk therapy less helpful or do not know yet how to put their experiences into words. No matter your reasons, we are here to create a space in which we can explore where you are, what you want, and what you need.
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, neurodiversity, and 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, neurodiversity, and 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.
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.
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.
Many feel the impact of alcohol or drug use on relationships, work, and wellbeing, or are unsure whether their use has become problematic. Others are navigating early recovery or facing stress, trauma, or major life challenges. My ideal clients are adults struggling with substance use alongside mood concerns such as depression, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm. At The Therapy Project, our team provides coordinated care through assessment, individualized treatment planning, counseling, and group support to help clients build healthier coping strategies, strengthen recovery, and restore stability.
Many feel the impact of alcohol or drug use on relationships, work, and wellbeing, or are unsure whether their use has become problematic. Others are navigating early recovery or facing stress, trauma, or major life challenges. My ideal clients are adults struggling with substance use alongside mood concerns such as depression, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm. At The Therapy Project, our team provides coordinated care through assessment, individualized treatment planning, counseling, and group support to help clients build healthier coping strategies, strengthen recovery, and restore stability.
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.
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.
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.
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 utilise evidence-based modalities such as EMDR, CBT, ACT, IFS, and Dialectical Behaviour skills.
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.
I utilise evidence-based modalities such as EMDR, CBT, ACT, IFS, and Dialectical Behaviour skills.
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.
Many people who find their way to this work have spent a long time trying to put words to experiences that don’t always fit easily into ordinary conversation. They may feel things intensely, think in complex or creative ways, or find that their inner world moves in images, sensations, or metaphor rather than straightforward explanations.
I work especially well with people who feel deeply, think creatively, or have struggled to find therapy that makes space for imagination, sensitivity, or non-linear ways of processing experience.
Many people who find their way to this work have spent a long time trying to put words to experiences that don’t always fit easily into ordinary conversation. They may feel things intensely, think in complex or creative ways, or find that their inner world moves in images, sensations, or metaphor rather than straightforward explanations.
I work especially well with people who feel deeply, think creatively, or have struggled to find therapy that makes space for imagination, sensitivity, or non-linear ways of processing experience.
Elaine is a Senior Registered Psychologist in New Zealand and a Registered Practioner Psychologist in the UK. Elaine has lived in New Zealand for over 25yrs. Elaine helps her clients using a warm, empowering approach to assist her clients achieve their goals in the most appropriate way. (Offers early morning/evening video sessions, (though Clearhead, EAP/insurance) and in person. Elaine uses various approaches CBT, SFT, ADHD coaching etc. She has over 27 years experience working with adults, teenagers/children/families. Elaine has worked within the Health Service, G.P. surgeries, CYFS/OT, Special Education and in private practice .
Elaine is a Senior Registered Psychologist in New Zealand and a Registered Practioner Psychologist in the UK. Elaine has lived in New Zealand for over 25yrs. Elaine helps her clients using a warm, empowering approach to assist her clients achieve their goals in the most appropriate way. (Offers early morning/evening video sessions, (though Clearhead, EAP/insurance) and in person. Elaine uses various approaches CBT, SFT, ADHD coaching etc. She has over 27 years experience working with adults, teenagers/children/families. Elaine has worked within the Health Service, G.P. surgeries, CYFS/OT, Special Education and in private practice .
I'm trained in Coherence Therapy, IFS, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
If insight worked, you'd be healed by now. You don't need more coping strategies to manage your pain. You need real, transformation. I offer DEPTH therapy designed for lasting change.
Perhaps you understand your patterns intellectually, yet you still find yourself trapped by anxiety, self-criticism, or a quiet loss of hope. There is nothing wrong with you. Your brain is simply operating on survival patterns that were formed for powerful reasons.
I help you safely uncover and permanently update the deep emotional learnings driving your current suffering. We don't just talk about the past; we systematically rewire it. You can do this.
I'm trained in Coherence Therapy, IFS, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
If insight worked, you'd be healed by now. You don't need more coping strategies to manage your pain. You need real, transformation. I offer DEPTH therapy designed for lasting change.
Perhaps you understand your patterns intellectually, yet you still find yourself trapped by anxiety, self-criticism, or a quiet loss of hope. There is nothing wrong with you. Your brain is simply operating on survival patterns that were formed for powerful reasons.
I help you safely uncover and permanently update the deep emotional learnings driving your current suffering. We don't just talk about the past; we systematically rewire it. You can do this.
As a Hakomi graduate and Internal Family Systems ( IFS) practitioner, Sam works with body-centered therapy that honors the mind-body connection.
Sam is an experienced clinician who brings a compassionate, mindful, and deeply respectful approach to supporting people from all walks of life. Her unique perspective integrates the wisdom of the body with psychodynamic understanding, recognising that our physical presence—our posture, expressions, movement, and voice—reflects the rich landscape of our inner emotional world.
As a Hakomi graduate and Internal Family Systems ( IFS) practitioner, Sam works with body-centered therapy that honors the mind-body connection.
Sam is an experienced clinician who brings a compassionate, mindful, and deeply respectful approach to supporting people from all walks of life. Her unique perspective integrates the wisdom of the body with psychodynamic understanding, recognising that our physical presence—our posture, expressions, movement, and voice—reflects the rich landscape of our inner emotional world.
As a holistic therapist, I integrate cutting-edge somatic & neuroscience-based trauma approaches such as Sensorimotor/SE & EMDR with IFS, Jungian & Psychodynamic approaches, alongside ancient shamanic wisdoms.
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?
As a holistic therapist, I integrate cutting-edge somatic & neuroscience-based trauma approaches such as Sensorimotor/SE & EMDR with IFS, Jungian & Psychodynamic approaches, alongside ancient shamanic wisdoms.
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?
Kia ora, I am a Registered Counsellor and IFS Therapist with a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology.
If you find yourself struggling with low self-esteem, caught in repetitive loops, or overwhelmed by distressing thoughts and doubts, please know healing is possible. Whether food feels consuming or you feel completely disconnected from your body, you don't have to carry this alone. I am here to help you understand these struggles and heal.
Kia ora, I am a Registered Counsellor and IFS Therapist with a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology.
If you find yourself struggling with low self-esteem, caught in repetitive loops, or overwhelmed by distressing thoughts and doubts, please know healing is possible. Whether food feels consuming or you feel completely disconnected from your body, you don't have to carry this alone. I am here to help you understand these struggles and heal.
My practice is rooted in Internal Family Systems ( IFS), integrated with somatic healing.
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
My practice is rooted in Internal Family Systems ( IFS), integrated with somatic healing.
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
I'm a fully qualified therapist in private practice with extensive training in Internal Family Systems ( IFS) .
I am passionate about Internal Family Systems therapy ( IFS). IFS is a complete, cutting-edge form of individual growth and therapy. It is unfailingly kind, compassionate and accepting, and is effective whatever our personal goal, whether it’s healing from trauma, dealing with everyday problems, or personal growth. It also teaches us to be our own healer.
I'm a fully qualified therapist in private practice with extensive training in Internal Family Systems ( IFS) .
I am passionate about Internal Family Systems therapy ( IFS). IFS is a complete, cutting-edge form of individual growth and therapy. It is unfailingly kind, compassionate and accepting, and is effective whatever our personal goal, whether it’s healing from trauma, dealing with everyday problems, or personal growth. It also teaches us to be our own healer.
IFS Level 1 Trained Therapist.
Hello
My name is Kirandeep-Compassionate Guide on Your Healing Journey
Kia ora, I'm 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.
IFS Level 1 Trained Therapist.
Hello
My name is Kirandeep-Compassionate Guide on Your Healing Journey
Kia ora, I'm 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.
I help individuals to thrive - predominately in relationship. As a couples counsellor/therapist I use Positive Psych, Relational Life Therapy, and Attachment Theory; adding mindfulness (presence skills) so clients can co-regulate, in session and in their lives. This model is a place of sharing - where any work that the individual needs, is witnessed and compassionately attuned to, by the partner. Many of my clients are Adult Diagnosed ADHD or AuDHD; Gifted; or partnered with such. 'Normal' is as unique as single individual I see. With communication skills, honesty, and intent - we can see you back to thriving.
I help individuals to thrive - predominately in relationship. As a couples counsellor/therapist I use Positive Psych, Relational Life Therapy, and Attachment Theory; adding mindfulness (presence skills) so clients can co-regulate, in session and in their lives. This model is a place of sharing - where any work that the individual needs, is witnessed and compassionately attuned to, by the partner. Many of my clients are Adult Diagnosed ADHD or AuDHD; Gifted; or partnered with such. 'Normal' is as unique as single individual I see. With communication skills, honesty, and intent - we can see you back to thriving.
I work with adults who struggle with relationships, alcohol, anxiety, and depression. My clients have often been abused sexually, survived domestic abuse and/or neglect in their childhood. This means clients might find it hard to be in close relationships, have a sense of 'being hollow inside', constantly worry about 'getting it wrong', find it hard to say no, be constantly busy, feel angry or frustrated at others, feel 'flat and rudderless' in life, and/or self-soothe (eg alcohol) to make life easier. I am interested in helping people process their psychobiography to feel more at peace.
I also work with ACC Sensitive Claims.
I work with adults who struggle with relationships, alcohol, anxiety, and depression. My clients have often been abused sexually, survived domestic abuse and/or neglect in their childhood. This means clients might find it hard to be in close relationships, have a sense of 'being hollow inside', constantly worry about 'getting it wrong', find it hard to say no, be constantly busy, feel angry or frustrated at others, feel 'flat and rudderless' in life, and/or self-soothe (eg alcohol) to make life easier. I am interested in helping people process their psychobiography to feel more at peace.
I also work with ACC Sensitive Claims.
Online Therapists
My ideal client is someone that is curious about themselves and others. They are willing to explore their behaviour and look at their protective layers. They are willing to risk and sometimes step out of their comfort zone. They would require respect and curiosity in therapy. The symptoms might be dysfunctional - anxiety, depression, relationship discord or adaptation issues, but they all serve a function.
My ideal client is someone that is curious about themselves and others. They are willing to explore their behaviour and look at their protective layers. They are willing to risk and sometimes step out of their comfort zone. They would require respect and curiosity in therapy. The symptoms might be dysfunctional - anxiety, depression, relationship discord or adaptation issues, but they all serve a function.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Counsellors
What is Internal Family Systems therapy?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a type of talk therapy that focuses on sub-personalities, or “families,” within a person, which may be made up of wounded parts and unpleasant emotions like anger and shame. These sub-personalities can come into conflict with each other and with an individual’s core Self, leaving the person feeling detached from positive traits such as the “8 C’s” of confidence, calmness, creativity, clarity, curiosity, courage, compassion, and connectedness. By healing a patient’s wounded parts, a therapist aims to restore balance and bring on positive change.
How does Internal Family Systems therapy work?
An IFS therapist will work with a patient to identify their particular sub-personalities, recognize the emotions powering them, and release them. By doing so, the patient should become more able to address any underlying problems their sub-personalities may have been trying to protect them from. Ultimately, a patient discovers ways to manage internal and external conflicts on their own, through techniques such as relaxation exercises, journaling, and making charts depicting the relationships between their core Self and their distinct parts.
Does Internal Family Systems therapy work?
IFS therapy has been shown to help people address conditions such as depression, anxiety, panic, fears and phobias, trauma, and substance use disorders. Some research has also found that it can help individuals deal with symptoms of physical health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, such as pain, everyday functioning, depressive feelings, and low self-compassion. There are some conditions for which IFS treatment, specifically discussions of one’s “parts,” may be less appropriate, such as schizophrenia or other states that involve psychosis or paranoia.
How long does Internal Family Systems therapy take?
As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for IFS therapy. After becoming comfortable with a therapist and the core concepts of IFS, some patients quickly make progress. While experiences vary, most will find that it is a relatively longer-term therapy, involving months and sometimes years of sessions.