Sexual Addiction Therapists in Otago

Photo of Fiona Williamson, Counsellor
Fiona Williamson
Counsellor
Wanaka 9382
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.
0800 452 530 x85 View 0800 452 530 x85
Photo of Sally Williams, Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Sally Williams
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Serves Area
I specialise in providing a safe, inclusive space for marginalised communities, including LGBTQIA+, sex worker, and neurodiverse clients. I understand the challenges of navigating identity, stigma, and societal pressures. In my practice, I offer a collaborative, non-judgmental space for clients to explore, affirm, or reflect on their identities. Together, we build resilience, address challenges, and focus on growth. Therapy is tailored to each individual’s unique journey, ensuring a respectful and empowering experience for all.
I specialise in providing a safe, inclusive space for marginalised communities, including LGBTQIA+, sex worker, and neurodiverse clients. I understand the challenges of navigating identity, stigma, and societal pressures. In my practice, I offer a collaborative, non-judgmental space for clients to explore, affirm, or reflect on their identities. Together, we build resilience, address challenges, and focus on growth. Therapy is tailored to each individual’s unique journey, ensuring a respectful and empowering experience for all.
0800 451 540 x88 View 0800 451 540 x88
Photo of Serafin Upton, Counsellor
Serafin Upton
Counsellor
Serves Area
Providing specialist relationship therapy for individuals, couples, and families. Qualified sex & relationship therapist. Qualified child and adolescent mental health clinician.
Providing specialist relationship therapy for individuals, couples, and families. Qualified sex & relationship therapist. Qualified child and adolescent mental health clinician.
View
Photo of Warren Earle Mason - Atarangi Counselling, Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
Atarangi Counselling
Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
Serves Area
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.
0800 627 024 x28 View 0800 627 024 x28
Photo of Paola Montanaro, Counsellor, MPsych, MNZAC
Paola Montanaro
Counsellor, MPsych, MNZAC
Serves Area
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.
0800 627 050 x36 View 0800 627 050 x36
Photo of Bridget Stella Wilson, Counsellor
Bridget Stella Wilson
Counsellor
Serves Area
I believe that addiction is a primary disease and that a person's other issues will stem from this fundamental problem. Therefore it's important to treat the addiction first. People with addiction often use alcohol and other drugs or behaviours to 'cope'. In the beginning the substance or the behaviour (such as sex addiction) was the 'solution', but after a while it became the problem. My approach is to offer therapy that is focused on a new, results-focused solution. The goal is offering my clients 'tools' so that they can change behaviour that is causing problems in their lives.
I believe that addiction is a primary disease and that a person's other issues will stem from this fundamental problem. Therefore it's important to treat the addiction first. People with addiction often use alcohol and other drugs or behaviours to 'cope'. In the beginning the substance or the behaviour (such as sex addiction) was the 'solution', but after a while it became the problem. My approach is to offer therapy that is focused on a new, results-focused solution. The goal is offering my clients 'tools' so that they can change behaviour that is causing problems in their lives.
0800 627 004 x82 View 0800 627 004 x82
Photo of Peggy Barrett, Psychologist, MSc
Peggy Barrett
Psychologist, MSc
Serves Area
My clients are often busy professionals, men and couples who feel confident in many areas of their life but internally feel overwhelmed, disconnected, burnt out, anxious, or stuck in painful patterns. They may struggle with relationship or sex issues, emotional shutdown, overthinking, perfectionism, conflict, self-criticism, or unhealthy coping strategies. I help clients understand the deeper patterns driving these difficulties, build emotional and relational skills, improve communication and intimacy, and create meaningful, lasting change.
My clients are often busy professionals, men and couples who feel confident in many areas of their life but internally feel overwhelmed, disconnected, burnt out, anxious, or stuck in painful patterns. They may struggle with relationship or sex issues, emotional shutdown, overthinking, perfectionism, conflict, self-criticism, or unhealthy coping strategies. I help clients understand the deeper patterns driving these difficulties, build emotional and relational skills, improve communication and intimacy, and create meaningful, lasting change.
0800 451 540 x71 View 0800 451 540 x71

Online Therapists

Photo of Jenny Smith, Counsellor, MNZCCA
Jenny Smith
Counsellor, MNZCCA
Auckland 1050
Welcome! My name is Jen and I am a registered counsellor specialising in relationship work, sexual issues, addiction and trauma. I primarily work with adults and couples with a range of complex issues. I offer a non-judgmental environment and a relational approach with the hope that you and I can work together in order to find answers or solutions that you may be seeking. I am psychodynamically trained and enjoy the explorative process of therapy. I have been a therapist for several years and enjoy my work immensely. I approach each new client with curiosity, compassion and a hope for resolution. I look forward to hearing from you!
Welcome! My name is Jen and I am a registered counsellor specialising in relationship work, sexual issues, addiction and trauma. I primarily work with adults and couples with a range of complex issues. I offer a non-judgmental environment and a relational approach with the hope that you and I can work together in order to find answers or solutions that you may be seeking. I am psychodynamically trained and enjoy the explorative process of therapy. I have been a therapist for several years and enjoy my work immensely. I approach each new client with curiosity, compassion and a hope for resolution. I look forward to hearing from you!
0800 447 359 x36 View 0800 447 359 x36
Photo of Rebekah Gale, Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Rebekah Gale
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
3 Endorsed
Rolleston 7614
Kia ora, I'm Rebekah. I'm 31 and a qualified counsellor based in Christchurch and Rolleston. I offer counselling in-person and online. I welcome anyone over the age of 16 needing support. I work hard to provide counselling that feels safe and welcoming where our sessions not only consist of exploring your issue at depth but also allow for moments of laughter and genuine connection to naturally emerge alongside our work. I aim to provide practical tools, active listening and a client/counsellor relationship that in itself facilitate growth.
Kia ora, I'm Rebekah. I'm 31 and a qualified counsellor based in Christchurch and Rolleston. I offer counselling in-person and online. I welcome anyone over the age of 16 needing support. I work hard to provide counselling that feels safe and welcoming where our sessions not only consist of exploring your issue at depth but also allow for moments of laughter and genuine connection to naturally emerge alongside our work. I aim to provide practical tools, active listening and a client/counsellor relationship that in itself facilitate growth.
0800 627 050 x33 View 0800 627 050 x33
Photo of Grant Wattie - Grant Wattie, Marriage & Couples Counsellor, MNZAC, Counsellor, MNZAC
High-performing professionals and entrepreneurs often succeed in business but silently struggle at home. Whether your marriage feels on the brink or you simply want deeper connection, I provide a safe, structured space to realign love and leadership. Research shows couples therapy ranks lowest in client satisfaction, often leaving professionals frustrated. That’s why I created the Aroha Rapid Transformation Method—a practical, results-focused approach that helps couples move quickly from stress and disconnection to clarity, intimacy, and trust.
High-performing professionals and entrepreneurs often succeed in business but silently struggle at home. Whether your marriage feels on the brink or you simply want deeper connection, I provide a safe, structured space to realign love and leadership. Research shows couples therapy ranks lowest in client satisfaction, often leaving professionals frustrated. That’s why I created the Aroha Rapid Transformation Method—a practical, results-focused approach that helps couples move quickly from stress and disconnection to clarity, intimacy, and trust.
0800 627 003 x20 View 0800 627 003 x20
Photo of Dr. Hayley Walker-Williams, Psychologist, PhD, MNZCCP
Dr. Hayley Walker-Williams
Psychologist, PhD, MNZCCP
Whangarei 0179
Dr. Hayley Walker-Williams is a practicing Clinical Psychologist with 24 years of experience. She is registered with the NZ Psychology Board and is a full member of the NZ College of Clinical Psychologists. Her clinical expertise include psychological disorders and specifically trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, and relationship issues. She immigrated to New Zealand in 2021 from South Africa where she was a full-time academic/associate professor of psychology at the North-West University. She also consulted in private practice, an inpatient ward and as an EAP consultant. Hayley has published several peer-reviewed journal articles.
Dr. Hayley Walker-Williams is a practicing Clinical Psychologist with 24 years of experience. She is registered with the NZ Psychology Board and is a full member of the NZ College of Clinical Psychologists. Her clinical expertise include psychological disorders and specifically trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, and relationship issues. She immigrated to New Zealand in 2021 from South Africa where she was a full-time academic/associate professor of psychology at the North-West University. She also consulted in private practice, an inpatient ward and as an EAP consultant. Hayley has published several peer-reviewed journal articles.
View
Photo of Donal Keane, Counsellor, NZCCA
Donal Keane
Counsellor, NZCCA
Auckland 0630
I'm passionate about helping people navigate the challenges of life particularly in the areas of self -confidence ,relationship, and career enhancement. I have had to overcome suicidality in my late 20s and sexual orientation doubts .I offer hope to others from my own experience in these areas .I also have dealt with serious mental health challenges due the suppression of my own childhood traumas including the early death of my father. These experiences and the road to recovery from these has given me a strong ‘Trauma informed’ lens through which I can view current problems and assist with dealing with the more subtle drivers.
I'm passionate about helping people navigate the challenges of life particularly in the areas of self -confidence ,relationship, and career enhancement. I have had to overcome suicidality in my late 20s and sexual orientation doubts .I offer hope to others from my own experience in these areas .I also have dealt with serious mental health challenges due the suppression of my own childhood traumas including the early death of my father. These experiences and the road to recovery from these has given me a strong ‘Trauma informed’ lens through which I can view current problems and assist with dealing with the more subtle drivers.
0800 451 540 x47 View 0800 451 540 x47
Photo of Maarten Nico Mulholland, Counsellor, MA
Maarten Nico Mulholland
Counsellor, MA
Online Only
Maarten completed his MA Counseling through Monash University in Melbourne Australia and is a registered counsellor with the ACA. He has been associated with lifelines both in New Zealand and Japan, as well as distance counseling via online services. With over 25 years experience in education and counseling, he offers a supportive perspective that will help bring clarity in times of difficulty. Maarten’s theoretical orientation is firmly client centered, with cognitive behavioral therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness as major influencers.
Maarten completed his MA Counseling through Monash University in Melbourne Australia and is a registered counsellor with the ACA. He has been associated with lifelines both in New Zealand and Japan, as well as distance counseling via online services. With over 25 years experience in education and counseling, he offers a supportive perspective that will help bring clarity in times of difficulty. Maarten’s theoretical orientation is firmly client centered, with cognitive behavioral therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness as major influencers.
0800 627 004 x41 View 0800 627 004 x41
Photo of Elaine Matthews Venter, Counsellor, AThR
Elaine Matthews Venter
Counsellor, AThR
If you are experiencing difficult emotions, finding it hard to express your feelings, feeling angry, stressed, depressed, or lonely, struggling in your relationships, telling yourself that you do not deserve happiness in life, failing to achieve goals in your life, or struggling with an eating disorder, or addictive behaviour, I can work alongside you to find ways to assist you to feel happier and more fulfilled, while leading a more meaningful and creative life.
If you are experiencing difficult emotions, finding it hard to express your feelings, feeling angry, stressed, depressed, or lonely, struggling in your relationships, telling yourself that you do not deserve happiness in life, failing to achieve goals in your life, or struggling with an eating disorder, or addictive behaviour, I can work alongside you to find ways to assist you to feel happier and more fulfilled, while leading a more meaningful and creative life.
0800 627 050 x21 View 0800 627 050 x21
Photo of Eva Whakaata Jones - Eva Jones | Whakaata Counselling, Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Eva Jones | Whakaata Counselling
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
2 Endorsed
Specialising in both Somatic and Narrative Therapy, I enjoy a diverse range of work. However, I work especially well with adult survivors of childhood trauma, as well as those navigating active grief and bereavement. It’s a privilege to support individuals who feel caught in painful relational patterns or who are struggling with emotional overwhelm, disconnection from their body, disruptive coping habits, or the weight of their past. My approach is shaped by both clinical training and lived experience. I offer a focused & therapeutic space where nothing is too messy and we move toward restoration that feels real and lasting.
Specialising in both Somatic and Narrative Therapy, I enjoy a diverse range of work. However, I work especially well with adult survivors of childhood trauma, as well as those navigating active grief and bereavement. It’s a privilege to support individuals who feel caught in painful relational patterns or who are struggling with emotional overwhelm, disconnection from their body, disruptive coping habits, or the weight of their past. My approach is shaped by both clinical training and lived experience. I offer a focused & therapeutic space where nothing is too messy and we move toward restoration that feels real and lasting.
0800 451 520 x91 View 0800 451 520 x91
Photo of Travis Joshua Strickland
Travis Joshua Strickland
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I assist clients to create the reality they want while reconnecting with their joy, vitality, and presence. Most of the clients I currently see deal with substance use, depression, anxiety, and/or relationship issues. I am generally skills oriented and promote the use of mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness through DBT and ACT. I enjoy helping clients feel safe, creative, and responsive to their external environment through becoming more internally resilient and stable.
I assist clients to create the reality they want while reconnecting with their joy, vitality, and presence. Most of the clients I currently see deal with substance use, depression, anxiety, and/or relationship issues. I am generally skills oriented and promote the use of mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness through DBT and ACT. I enjoy helping clients feel safe, creative, and responsive to their external environment through becoming more internally resilient and stable.
0800 468 212 x75 View 0800 468 212 x75
Photo of Martin Thomas Putt - Martin Putt Counselling & Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, PBANZ
Sometimes we all need the space to take time out to reflect on what's going on with us; or to talk to someone outside our immediate family and friends, a trained and experienced professional, who can assist us to think and feel deeper into our life, work and relationships. As we do this we begin to feel more human, more in balance and more able to warm up to our own spontaneity, vitality and creativity in response to what is required- be it coming to some resolutions, developing or strengthening aspects of ourselves, moving forward, or 'leaning into' our lives in a more dynamic or committed way. Therapy assists.
Sometimes we all need the space to take time out to reflect on what's going on with us; or to talk to someone outside our immediate family and friends, a trained and experienced professional, who can assist us to think and feel deeper into our life, work and relationships. As we do this we begin to feel more human, more in balance and more able to warm up to our own spontaneity, vitality and creativity in response to what is required- be it coming to some resolutions, developing or strengthening aspects of ourselves, moving forward, or 'leaning into' our lives in a more dynamic or committed way. Therapy assists.
0800 627 050 x99 View 0800 627 050 x99
Photo of Nate Newson, Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Nate Newson
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Blenheim 7201
Kia ora, I’m Nate, a counsellor based in Blenheim, Marlborough. I know from my own life that getting support can make a huge difference, and I see it as a real privilege to walk alongside people as they find their way through tough seasons. I work with teens and adults who might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or burnt out. This can look like anxiety, low mood, stress, relationship or whānau difficulties, or big life changes. I have a particular interest in men’s mental health and the pressure to “harden up” or hold everything in, and I enjoy supporting people who are trying to do things differently.
Kia ora, I’m Nate, a counsellor based in Blenheim, Marlborough. I know from my own life that getting support can make a huge difference, and I see it as a real privilege to walk alongside people as they find their way through tough seasons. I work with teens and adults who might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or burnt out. This can look like anxiety, low mood, stress, relationship or whānau difficulties, or big life changes. I have a particular interest in men’s mental health and the pressure to “harden up” or hold everything in, and I enjoy supporting people who are trying to do things differently.
0800 452 530 x67 View 0800 452 530 x67
Photo of Mark Campbell McGoram - Talking Matters Counselling , Counsellor, MNZAC
Talking Matters Counselling
Counsellor, MNZAC
1 Endorsed
Kia ora! I'm Mark. I use he/him/his pronouns. I have a strong belief that everyone can have a sense of their identity, regardless of their sexuality, where they can embrace their unique life pathway without judgment. I feel strongly about supporting the empowerment of women, I desire to create an environment of care and support for male clients who struggle with the notion that they too can express their vulnerability, sensitivity, and empathy. As a gay man, I feel I have a history and depth of experience to understand the different challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ people, as well as other societal minority groups.
Kia ora! I'm Mark. I use he/him/his pronouns. I have a strong belief that everyone can have a sense of their identity, regardless of their sexuality, where they can embrace their unique life pathway without judgment. I feel strongly about supporting the empowerment of women, I desire to create an environment of care and support for male clients who struggle with the notion that they too can express their vulnerability, sensitivity, and empathy. As a gay man, I feel I have a history and depth of experience to understand the different challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ people, as well as other societal minority groups.
0800 468 212 x95 View 0800 468 212 x95
Photo of Angela Roberts
Angela Roberts
Verified Verified
Online Only
Sexologist, Sex and Relationship/Couples Therapist, Registered Occupational Therapist, Grief and Loss Trauma-Informed Therapist and Professional Supervisor. Find out more www.angelaroberts.nz. I understand that coming to therapy can be daunting, and it can feel challenging to talk about topics such as sex and relationships and/or grief and loss. I offer you professional, unbiased, experienced, solutions-focused therapy as you navigate your relationships, communication, mental health, grief and loss, and sexuality. I offer online talking therapy and coaching sessions from the comfort and convenience of your home.
Sexologist, Sex and Relationship/Couples Therapist, Registered Occupational Therapist, Grief and Loss Trauma-Informed Therapist and Professional Supervisor. Find out more www.angelaroberts.nz. I understand that coming to therapy can be daunting, and it can feel challenging to talk about topics such as sex and relationships and/or grief and loss. I offer you professional, unbiased, experienced, solutions-focused therapy as you navigate your relationships, communication, mental health, grief and loss, and sexuality. I offer online talking therapy and coaching sessions from the comfort and convenience of your home.
0800 451 540 x28 View 0800 451 540 x28
Sexual Addiction Counsellors
When should someone seek treatment for sex addiction?
People should seek treatment for sex addiction if they cannot control their sexual thoughts or behaviours to the point that it disrupts their ability to function in daily life, for example by threatening their finances, career, or relationships. This may include spending an excessive amount of time obsessing over sex, planning sex, watching pornography, or masturbating, as well as consistently engaging in risky sexual activities, using sex to escape distressing feelings, or attempting yet failing to control sexual behaviour.

What are the most common treatment options for sex addiction?
Psychotherapy is the most common treatment for sex addiction; therapy helps patients better understand their compulsive thoughts and behaviours and develop strategies to manage their desires. Therapy may be supplemented by medications, such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, anti-androgens, alcohol and substance use medications, as well as support groups, such as 12-step programs.

How long does therapy take for sex addiction?
Recovering from compulsive behaviour takes time and effort. There’s no precise timeline for treatment, but research suggests 12 therapy sessions may be enough to see change. Treatment for sexual compulsions requires honesty in therapy, a commitment to understanding triggers and developing coping skills, and potential lifestyle changes such as cutting out alcohol or drugs.

What if sex addiction is left untreated?
Compulsive sexual behaviour can have serious repercussions if left unaddressed. For example, if sexual obsessions consume the vast majority of a person’s time, they may lose their job. If they can’t stop paying for sex, their finances may suffer. If they’re dishonest in their relationships, their partner may leave them. If they consistently feel shame, they may struggle with anxiety, depression, or loneliness. Therapy can help people develop the tools to manage sexual thoughts and behaviours that feel uncontrollable.