Pacific Islander Therapists in Otago
It takes a lot of courage to reach out to a person you don’t know to work through challenges. I will meet you with compassion, for you, and hold space for your human experiences. We will build safety and trust together as we seek to acknowledge, understand, heal, and integrate what you have been through. I am passionate about supporting the diverse humans I work with to build resilience, cope, and process their experiences. I support my clients to live a life where their minds are a bit kinder to them.
It takes a lot of courage to reach out to a person you don’t know to work through challenges. I will meet you with compassion, for you, and hold space for your human experiences. We will build safety and trust together as we seek to acknowledge, understand, heal, and integrate what you have been through. I am passionate about supporting the diverse humans I work with to build resilience, cope, and process their experiences. I support my clients to live a life where their minds are a bit kinder to them.
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.
Online Therapists
My ideal client is someone who feels stuck—overwhelmed by anxiety, relationship strain, unresolved trauma, or the weight of past experiences. They may be searching for clarity, confidence, and emotional stability, wanting healthier connections and a stronger sense of self. They’re ready for change, even if unsure where to begin. What they want most is to feel heard, supported, and empowered to heal, grow, and build a life that finally feels calm, meaningful, and authentically their own.
My ideal client is someone who feels stuck—overwhelmed by anxiety, relationship strain, unresolved trauma, or the weight of past experiences. They may be searching for clarity, confidence, and emotional stability, wanting healthier connections and a stronger sense of self. They’re ready for change, even if unsure where to begin. What they want most is to feel heard, supported, and empowered to heal, grow, and build a life that finally feels calm, meaningful, and authentically their own.
Therapy is a collaborative process between two people to identify and cope with the challenges life presents. I work with my clients with a compassionate and strength-based approach utilising evidence-based tools.
Our end goal is to assist my clients in being their own therapists.
Therapy is a collaborative process between two people to identify and cope with the challenges life presents. I work with my clients with a compassionate and strength-based approach utilising evidence-based tools.
Our end goal is to assist my clients in being their own therapists.
“I can’t say no without feeling guilty.” “I’m tired of never feeling good enough.” “I don’t know how to express my feelings and needs without apologising or feeling ashamed.” If this sounds like you, you are not alone. At HER therapy, I help millennial women break free from people-pleasing and start putting themselves first. Together, we will focus on uncovering your true feelings and needs, quieting the inner critic, and building the confidence to go after what you want. Imagine feeling less anxious and self-critical, and instead more secure, empowered, and unapologetically yourself. You can be that woman!
“I can’t say no without feeling guilty.” “I’m tired of never feeling good enough.” “I don’t know how to express my feelings and needs without apologising or feeling ashamed.” If this sounds like you, you are not alone. At HER therapy, I help millennial women break free from people-pleasing and start putting themselves first. Together, we will focus on uncovering your true feelings and needs, quieting the inner critic, and building the confidence to go after what you want. Imagine feeling less anxious and self-critical, and instead more secure, empowered, and unapologetically yourself. You can be that woman!
Kia ora my name is Michelle & I welcome those affected &/or seeking support with: Addiction issues, Couples therapy, Personal relationships, Coping with trauma, Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Identity concerns, Adjustment/Life transition, Grief and Loss, Stress and Anxiety, Issues with Depression, Emotional/Behavioral issues. I am diverse and inclusive working from a person-centered, strength-based approach with efficient use of various, eclectic therapeutic modalities. It is my passion to foster individual and collective empowerment, integration and growth whilst clinically drawing on one's own strengths & goals.
Kia ora my name is Michelle & I welcome those affected &/or seeking support with: Addiction issues, Couples therapy, Personal relationships, Coping with trauma, Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Identity concerns, Adjustment/Life transition, Grief and Loss, Stress and Anxiety, Issues with Depression, Emotional/Behavioral issues. I am diverse and inclusive working from a person-centered, strength-based approach with efficient use of various, eclectic therapeutic modalities. It is my passion to foster individual and collective empowerment, integration and growth whilst clinically drawing on one's own strengths & goals.
I work with people carrying pōuri (depression), trauma, or pressure within relationships and whānau. When these experiences sit too long, they can weigh on the wairua and affect identity, connection, and direction in life.
Our first sessions create space for honest kōrero, where your story is heard with manaaki and respect. Together we unpack what you’ve been carrying and begin restoring balance.
Guided by te ao Māori values, the work strengthens mauri, clarity, and sense of self. Many people begin to feel the heaviness lift within the first few weeks as understanding grows and a clearer path forward begins to emerge.
I work with people carrying pōuri (depression), trauma, or pressure within relationships and whānau. When these experiences sit too long, they can weigh on the wairua and affect identity, connection, and direction in life.
Our first sessions create space for honest kōrero, where your story is heard with manaaki and respect. Together we unpack what you’ve been carrying and begin restoring balance.
Guided by te ao Māori values, the work strengthens mauri, clarity, and sense of self. Many people begin to feel the heaviness lift within the first few weeks as understanding grows and a clearer path forward begins to emerge.
Kia ora, Kia orana !
Mental wellbeing is a journey, and on that journey we face many storms and challenges. We develop skills, and strengths over time. My job is to help you navigate the challenges in life, working with you to get to where you want to be. Its a journey and at times, we are not equipped to deal with what comes our way- we provide a safe space to explore and figure these things out.
Kia ora, Kia orana !
Mental wellbeing is a journey, and on that journey we face many storms and challenges. We develop skills, and strengths over time. My job is to help you navigate the challenges in life, working with you to get to where you want to be. Its a journey and at times, we are not equipped to deal with what comes our way- we provide a safe space to explore and figure these things out.
I am a counsellor based in Porirua, working with clients across Wellington and online throughout New Zealand. I offer a warm, empathetic, and non-judgemental space where you can slow down, feel heard, and make sense of what you are experiencing.
My focus is on anxiety, overwhelm, trauma, neurodivergence (ADHD, autism), emotional regulation, and parenting support. I also work with people navigating identity, burnout, and life transitions.
Counselling with me is not about fixing you. It is about working alongside you to explore what is going on, understand your needs, and find ways forward that fit your life and nervous system.
I am a counsellor based in Porirua, working with clients across Wellington and online throughout New Zealand. I offer a warm, empathetic, and non-judgemental space where you can slow down, feel heard, and make sense of what you are experiencing.
My focus is on anxiety, overwhelm, trauma, neurodivergence (ADHD, autism), emotional regulation, and parenting support. I also work with people navigating identity, burnout, and life transitions.
Counselling with me is not about fixing you. It is about working alongside you to explore what is going on, understand your needs, and find ways forward that fit your life and nervous system.
Sometimes we all need space to reflect on what’s going on or to talk with someone outside our immediate circle. Therapy is a confidential space that can help you to develop the insight and skill you need to work through difficult or challenging experiences and find ways to live a life with greater resilience and purpose. My approach is empathetic, warm and non-judgemental. I work flexibly and collaboratively with my clients and believe in tailoring therapy to meet their individual needs.
Sometimes we all need space to reflect on what’s going on or to talk with someone outside our immediate circle. Therapy is a confidential space that can help you to develop the insight and skill you need to work through difficult or challenging experiences and find ways to live a life with greater resilience and purpose. My approach is empathetic, warm and non-judgemental. I work flexibly and collaboratively with my clients and believe in tailoring therapy to meet their individual needs.
You might have the sense that something deeper in your life wants attention. Perhaps you’ve tried to push through, stay positive, or work things out on your own, but the same patterns keep returning. You may feel disconnected, unsure who you really are, or quietly questioning the life you’ve built. Sometimes there’s a longing for something more real or meaningful, even if you can’t quite name what that is yet. Many of the people I work with come with a feeling that what they’re facing isn’t superficial. They’re looking for a space where they can slow down, explore honestly, and begin to understand themselves more deeply.
You might have the sense that something deeper in your life wants attention. Perhaps you’ve tried to push through, stay positive, or work things out on your own, but the same patterns keep returning. You may feel disconnected, unsure who you really are, or quietly questioning the life you’ve built. Sometimes there’s a longing for something more real or meaningful, even if you can’t quite name what that is yet. Many of the people I work with come with a feeling that what they’re facing isn’t superficial. They’re looking for a space where they can slow down, explore honestly, and begin to understand themselves more deeply.
Good on you for reaching out, that’s the first step! The Progress of Counselling is a Professional Imitate Relationship, where we can walk through suffering, depression, grief, whanau breakdowns, parenting issues, together. If you are suffering, struggling and wanting help, reach out and together we can work to make positive changes. No Judgement, Everyone Welcome.
Good on you for reaching out, that’s the first step! The Progress of Counselling is a Professional Imitate Relationship, where we can walk through suffering, depression, grief, whanau breakdowns, parenting issues, together. If you are suffering, struggling and wanting help, reach out and together we can work to make positive changes. No Judgement, Everyone Welcome.
I love working with families and individuals are experiencing difficulties in life. People who are searching for meaning to life and wanting to achieve their full potential in life. Individuals searching for answers or questions in regard to Grief and Loss, Spiritually and Christianity, Spiritual abuse are welcome.
I love working with families and individuals are experiencing difficulties in life. People who are searching for meaning to life and wanting to achieve their full potential in life. Individuals searching for answers or questions in regard to Grief and Loss, Spiritually and Christianity, Spiritual abuse are welcome.
Tena Koutou, ko Anihera Tahu-Hepworth ahau. Hello, I’m Anihera. I whakapapa back to the East Coast of the North Island and Waikaremoana in the central North Island of New Zealand. I am from Ngati Porou & Tuhoe iwi through my mother and father. Offering a confidential, compassionate and non-judgmental service for people from all walks of life. Are you needing relief from difficult life stresses and complexities? Nau mai, Haere mai, you are welcome to contact me.
Tena Koutou, ko Anihera Tahu-Hepworth ahau. Hello, I’m Anihera. I whakapapa back to the East Coast of the North Island and Waikaremoana in the central North Island of New Zealand. I am from Ngati Porou & Tuhoe iwi through my mother and father. Offering a confidential, compassionate and non-judgmental service for people from all walks of life. Are you needing relief from difficult life stresses and complexities? Nau mai, Haere mai, you are welcome to contact me.
Nurturing Hope Ltd: where healing begins with connection — and every person is seen, heard, and supported.
Our multidisciplinary team of 10 skilled, trauma-informed therapists and 10 Allied Health Specialists are all warm, empathic and compassionate practitioners. We prioritise:
Relationship and cultural care through whakawhanaungatanga, or building meaningful connection through deep, attentive listening, and manaakitanga, or acts of intentional care and kindness, Phase-based trauma-informed care, so trust, safety and stabilisation are established before trauma processing begins, and Evidence-informed strength-based practise.
Nurturing Hope Ltd: where healing begins with connection — and every person is seen, heard, and supported.
Our multidisciplinary team of 10 skilled, trauma-informed therapists and 10 Allied Health Specialists are all warm, empathic and compassionate practitioners. We prioritise:
Relationship and cultural care through whakawhanaungatanga, or building meaningful connection through deep, attentive listening, and manaakitanga, or acts of intentional care and kindness, Phase-based trauma-informed care, so trust, safety and stabilisation are established before trauma processing begins, and Evidence-informed strength-based practise.
Registered since 2009, I bring a wealth of experience in clinical and forensic settings and offer culturally aware, compassionate, and practical support. I'm passionate about helping people thrive and value the flexibility and accessibility of remote work. Let's work together to navigate life's challenges and create meaningful change.
Registered since 2009, I bring a wealth of experience in clinical and forensic settings and offer culturally aware, compassionate, and practical support. I'm passionate about helping people thrive and value the flexibility and accessibility of remote work. Let's work together to navigate life's challenges and create meaningful change.
Kia ora, I’m a counsellor (MNZAC) based in Tāmaki Makaurau, which has been my home since I immigrated to Aotearoa with my whanau in 1995. I'm fluent in English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Taiwanese. I value cultural understanding and the uniqueness of self. I worked in LabPlus for 6 years as a Medical Laboratory Scientist before I transitioned to counselling 16 years ago. Becoming a counsellor is my response to a strong calling to help people more directly.
Kia ora, I’m a counsellor (MNZAC) based in Tāmaki Makaurau, which has been my home since I immigrated to Aotearoa with my whanau in 1995. I'm fluent in English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Taiwanese. I value cultural understanding and the uniqueness of self. I worked in LabPlus for 6 years as a Medical Laboratory Scientist before I transitioned to counselling 16 years ago. Becoming a counsellor is my response to a strong calling to help people more directly.
I'm inspired by working with people to discover the possibilities in their lives to experience fearlessness, expression, joy, love and freedom. I am a specialist in navigating safely from abuse as well as an external Supervisor with a decades experience supporting best practice. Together we can find safe pathways of meaning from suffering to find liberation from our socialisation, and attachment imprinting. Through exploring cultural, spiritual, and creative practices to embrace and reflect on ancestral, intergenerational, and personal stories we can anchor in our strengths to heal and connect more deeply with ourselves and others.
I'm inspired by working with people to discover the possibilities in their lives to experience fearlessness, expression, joy, love and freedom. I am a specialist in navigating safely from abuse as well as an external Supervisor with a decades experience supporting best practice. Together we can find safe pathways of meaning from suffering to find liberation from our socialisation, and attachment imprinting. Through exploring cultural, spiritual, and creative practices to embrace and reflect on ancestral, intergenerational, and personal stories we can anchor in our strengths to heal and connect more deeply with ourselves and others.
Clients offer an array of personal difficulties, seeking insight to issues that are consuming their normally functional life. I have treated clients on a wide spectrum of issues, ranging from mental, physical, emotional, cultural and spiritual ailments. As we uncover a client's personal narrative, their initial needs may change, yet the result remains the same, to find a sense of security and hope in their personal life.
Clients offer an array of personal difficulties, seeking insight to issues that are consuming their normally functional life. I have treated clients on a wide spectrum of issues, ranging from mental, physical, emotional, cultural and spiritual ailments. As we uncover a client's personal narrative, their initial needs may change, yet the result remains the same, to find a sense of security and hope in their personal life.
Kia Ora, I am an experienced and qualified counsellor based in Tāmaki Makaurau, with a private practice located in South Auckland.
My counselling approach is warm and empathetic, and my experience includes couples & whānau, sexual abuse, trauma, grief, and other mental health challenges.
Āhurutanga (a safe and comforting space) is foundational to my practice.
I take a pluralistic approach to therapy, which means I integrate a variety of theories, modalities, and techniques to tailor to the unique needs and goals of my whaiora.
Kia Ora, I am an experienced and qualified counsellor based in Tāmaki Makaurau, with a private practice located in South Auckland.
My counselling approach is warm and empathetic, and my experience includes couples & whānau, sexual abuse, trauma, grief, and other mental health challenges.
Āhurutanga (a safe and comforting space) is foundational to my practice.
I take a pluralistic approach to therapy, which means I integrate a variety of theories, modalities, and techniques to tailor to the unique needs and goals of my whaiora.
FAQ - Pacific Islander Counselling
What are the advantages of seeing a Pacific Islander therapist?
For many Pacific Islander individuals, working with a provider who shares or respects their cultural background can foster a deeper sense of trust and connection in the therapeutic process—an essential foundation for effective care. A significant barrier to mental health treatment for many Pacific Islander individuals is the stigma that may be associated with seeking therapy. A culturally aligned therapist can help reduce this stigma and normalise the therapeutic process. Pacific Islander therapists may also be especially well-equipped to address issues that affect Pacific Islander communities, such as historical trauma, intergenerational grief, and cultural identity—factors that deeply influence mental health experiences. Providers who personally identify as Pacific Islander may incorporate traditional healing practices, spiritual beliefs, and community-based approaches that align with Pacific Islander values. Additionally, Pacific Islander therapists can serve as important sources of representation within the mental health field and may be familiar with culturally relevant resources, support networks, or other trusted providers who understand the unique experiences of Pacific Islander populations. As a result, they are often well positioned to offer referrals and collaborate with other professionals, helping to ensure care that honors both clinical best practices and cultural traditions.
How to find a Pacific Islander therapist?
Psychology Today’s online directory is a useful tool for finding a Pacific Islander therapist. You can filter for providers who identify as Pacific Islander or who mention working with Pacific Islander populations and highlight cultural competence in their profiles. Look for signs such as experience with Pacific Islander communities, familiarity with cultural and spiritual practices, or a focus on trauma-informed and community-centered care. Depending on your preferences and needs, it may also be important to ask whether a provider offers telehealth, which therapeutic approaches they use, and whether they accept your insurance. If you're unable to find a therapist who personally identifies as Pacific Islander, you may also consider providers who have experience working with Pacific Islander clients or who demonstrate a clear commitment to cultural knowledge and respect for Pacific Islander values and traditions. You might also consider a blended approach—for example, seeing a therapist for talk therapy while also working with a member of the Pacific Islander community for more culturally-specific support.