Toddler Therapists in Otago

At Nurture Occupational Therapy I support babies through to adolescents. Parents and teachers do a great job guiding them along the way, but sometimes they may need a little extra help. That is where an Occupational Therapist can provide invaluable guidance. By focusing on the individual child’s strengths and using a play-based approach, we foster independence and help children function positively in every aspect of their daily life. I support families in understanding sensory processing differences, managing big emotions and identifying social-emotional barriers to accessing daily activities.
At Nurture Occupational Therapy I support babies through to adolescents. Parents and teachers do a great job guiding them along the way, but sometimes they may need a little extra help. That is where an Occupational Therapist can provide invaluable guidance. By focusing on the individual child’s strengths and using a play-based approach, we foster independence and help children function positively in every aspect of their daily life. I support families in understanding sensory processing differences, managing big emotions and identifying social-emotional barriers to accessing daily activities.
we all experience some type of setbacks during our lifetime. Things like anxiety, identity crisis, grief, break ups, etc. having an impartial, non-judgmental with a counsellor can help gain clarity, understanding and tools to work with the issue.
we all experience some type of setbacks during our lifetime. Things like anxiety, identity crisis, grief, break ups, etc. having an impartial, non-judgmental with a counsellor can help gain clarity, understanding and tools to work with the issue.

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.

Do you or your child need support? Perhaps you have been through stressful or traumatic experiences or you or your child is experiencing anxiety, depression, aggression or grief.
Do you or your child need support? Perhaps you have been through stressful or traumatic experiences or you or your child is experiencing anxiety, depression, aggression or grief.

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.
Online Therapists

As you navigate through the complexities of life, it's not uncommon to feel overwhelmed or disconnected from your goals and desires. My name is Teresa, and as a professional counsellor, I'm here to offer you a supportive, confidential space to explore these challenges. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, struggling with relationship issues, or simply needing guidance as you face major life transitions, my goal is to help you find clarity and peace. Together, we will work towards overcoming these challenges and understanding and growing from them.
What sets me apart is my commitment to truly listening and understanding.
As you navigate through the complexities of life, it's not uncommon to feel overwhelmed or disconnected from your goals and desires. My name is Teresa, and as a professional counsellor, I'm here to offer you a supportive, confidential space to explore these challenges. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, struggling with relationship issues, or simply needing guidance as you face major life transitions, my goal is to help you find clarity and peace. Together, we will work towards overcoming these challenges and understanding and growing from them.
What sets me apart is my commitment to truly listening and understanding.

Kia Ora katou. My name is Sofia, from Argentina but calling New Zealand my home for the past six years. With a background in handling high-complex trauma, grief, sexual violence, domestic abuse, children and adolescent mental health, and family dynamics. My professional journey encompasses a holistic approach, integrating various modalities such as Theraplay, Gottman's Couple Therapy, TFCBT, along with mindfulness, IFS, IST, transgenerational trauma, and narrative therapy.
Kia Ora katou. My name is Sofia, from Argentina but calling New Zealand my home for the past six years. With a background in handling high-complex trauma, grief, sexual violence, domestic abuse, children and adolescent mental health, and family dynamics. My professional journey encompasses a holistic approach, integrating various modalities such as Theraplay, Gottman's Couple Therapy, TFCBT, along with mindfulness, IFS, IST, transgenerational trauma, and narrative therapy.

My approach is optimistic and creative Whilst problems can be serious and painful, I intend that our conversations will be uplifting. ‘Problem stories’ can become overwhelming and it can be almost impossible to separate ourselves from them. This is where narrative therapy comes in. Together, we will disentangle problems stories and you will step into new, life-giving stories. I have been trained for the last 22 years by one of the world's best-known therapists. I taught counselling at postgraduate level for ten years, I have published widely about my work and give regular workshops and trainings. You are in good hands with me.
My approach is optimistic and creative Whilst problems can be serious and painful, I intend that our conversations will be uplifting. ‘Problem stories’ can become overwhelming and it can be almost impossible to separate ourselves from them. This is where narrative therapy comes in. Together, we will disentangle problems stories and you will step into new, life-giving stories. I have been trained for the last 22 years by one of the world's best-known therapists. I taught counselling at postgraduate level for ten years, I have published widely about my work and give regular workshops and trainings. You are in good hands with me.

I work with adults, children, families, adolescents, ethnic groups, pregnant women (antenatal and postnatal) specializing in anxiety, disability, domestic violence, grief, abuse, personal development, anger management, self-esteem and confidence, stress, trauma, workplace issues, depression. I am a registered ACC sensitive claims provider for sexual abuse.
I work with adults, children, families, adolescents, ethnic groups, pregnant women (antenatal and postnatal) specializing in anxiety, disability, domestic violence, grief, abuse, personal development, anger management, self-esteem and confidence, stress, trauma, workplace issues, depression. I am a registered ACC sensitive claims provider for sexual abuse.

For over a decade in schools and private practice, I’ve walked alongside children, adolescents, and young adults, as well as parents, families, and educators, through life’s toughest hurdles. Whether it’s the tearful eight‑year‑old wrestling with separation anxiety, the teen weighed down by social pressures, the young adult navigating their first workplace relationship, or the parent and teacher seeking harmony in a child’s learning journey, I’m here to help you find clarity, calm, and confidence. My style is warm, culturally attuned, and always focused on helping you move forward with confidence.
For over a decade in schools and private practice, I’ve walked alongside children, adolescents, and young adults, as well as parents, families, and educators, through life’s toughest hurdles. Whether it’s the tearful eight‑year‑old wrestling with separation anxiety, the teen weighed down by social pressures, the young adult navigating their first workplace relationship, or the parent and teacher seeking harmony in a child’s learning journey, I’m here to help you find clarity, calm, and confidence. My style is warm, culturally attuned, and always focused on helping you move forward with confidence.

Anélda Huisamen Family Practice
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Warkworth 0910
Waitlist for new clients
Anelda Huisamen (née Kloppers) is a senior clinical psychologist, with interests in personal growth, supporting parents and children with neurodiversity, major life adjustments and trauma, attachment difficulties, ongoing emotional and behavioural difficulties, tics, body image and anxiety disorders. Comprehensive assessment and therapy services are offered.
Anelda Huisamen (née Kloppers) is a senior clinical psychologist, with interests in personal growth, supporting parents and children with neurodiversity, major life adjustments and trauma, attachment difficulties, ongoing emotional and behavioural difficulties, tics, body image and anxiety disorders. Comprehensive assessment and therapy services are offered.

Tēnā koe, I am a registered psychologist passionate about partnering with individuals, couples and families across the lifespan to enhance their wellbeing and to find sustainable solutions to a wide range of concerns. My practice is collaborative, empathetic, and evidence-based. I am also a trained mediator and am especially interested in supporting couples in conflict and families in transition (during and after separation).
Tēnā koe, I am a registered psychologist passionate about partnering with individuals, couples and families across the lifespan to enhance their wellbeing and to find sustainable solutions to a wide range of concerns. My practice is collaborative, empathetic, and evidence-based. I am also a trained mediator and am especially interested in supporting couples in conflict and families in transition (during and after separation).

Kia ora!"Ngairini was such a pleasure & Godsend in helping my teen sons. She has a lovely manner & is easy to open up to. She is super skilled in techniques to implement in support of her sessions & offers practical advice. I would highly recommend Ngairini." Gemma. "Ngairini is a great counsellor who listens w empathy to understand complex situations. She expertly uses her experiences in life to create an "I've been there too" connection w the children that gives them the understanding & empowerment to navigate the tough times." Fin.P. 'We found the experience useful. You were so welcoming and a great sounding board for Scott' Nik
Kia ora!"Ngairini was such a pleasure & Godsend in helping my teen sons. She has a lovely manner & is easy to open up to. She is super skilled in techniques to implement in support of her sessions & offers practical advice. I would highly recommend Ngairini." Gemma. "Ngairini is a great counsellor who listens w empathy to understand complex situations. She expertly uses her experiences in life to create an "I've been there too" connection w the children that gives them the understanding & empowerment to navigate the tough times." Fin.P. 'We found the experience useful. You were so welcoming and a great sounding board for Scott' Nik

My name is Naifang Wang. You can call me Wendy. I’m from Shanghai in China. I have been living in Auckland since 2017. I completed a Graduate Diploma in Arts in Psychology at Massey University in 2021. I also hold an NZQA accredited level 9 Master’s Degree in mental health. My experience as a psychological counselor involves individuals, couples, families and children. If you have any problems with emotional distress, problem solving, personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family problem, children's development, repetive dream work, etc., please contact me.
My name is Naifang Wang. You can call me Wendy. I’m from Shanghai in China. I have been living in Auckland since 2017. I completed a Graduate Diploma in Arts in Psychology at Massey University in 2021. I also hold an NZQA accredited level 9 Master’s Degree in mental health. My experience as a psychological counselor involves individuals, couples, families and children. If you have any problems with emotional distress, problem solving, personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family problem, children's development, repetive dream work, etc., please contact me.

Kia ora koutou katoa. My name is Sol, I am originally from Argentina, where I earned my degree in Clinical Psychology. I ventured to New Zealand in early 2020 and became a registered Clinical Psychologist with the New Zealand Psychologists Board. Bringing over a decade of experience, my practice is deeply rooted in a trauma-capable approach, acknowledging the profound impact of past experiences on mental health. With a passion for assisting individuals on their mental health journeys, I am eager to collaborate with you as you navigate your path towards well-being. I am providing sessions in English and Spanish.
Kia ora koutou katoa. My name is Sol, I am originally from Argentina, where I earned my degree in Clinical Psychology. I ventured to New Zealand in early 2020 and became a registered Clinical Psychologist with the New Zealand Psychologists Board. Bringing over a decade of experience, my practice is deeply rooted in a trauma-capable approach, acknowledging the profound impact of past experiences on mental health. With a passion for assisting individuals on their mental health journeys, I am eager to collaborate with you as you navigate your path towards well-being. I am providing sessions in English and Spanish.

I am a Registered mental health Social Worker who specializes in Play Therapy. I am a member of the Social Work Registration Board (NZ) and the Association for Play Therapy (US). My focus is supporting children and youth who are experiencing behavioural or social difficulties including anxiety, emotional dysregulation, anger/aggression, neurodiversity, trauma, loss and grief, and selective mutism. I also focus on supporting neurodiverse children to build social and emotional skills, who do not necessarily have mental health difficulties
I am a Registered mental health Social Worker who specializes in Play Therapy. I am a member of the Social Work Registration Board (NZ) and the Association for Play Therapy (US). My focus is supporting children and youth who are experiencing behavioural or social difficulties including anxiety, emotional dysregulation, anger/aggression, neurodiversity, trauma, loss and grief, and selective mutism. I also focus on supporting neurodiverse children to build social and emotional skills, who do not necessarily have mental health difficulties

Would you like to go deeper and talk about well-being, body image, healthy choices, and self-confidence? There’s so much that goes on in our minds—thoughts and feelings we might feel scared to share with friends, family, or loved ones. But you don’t have to carry it all alone.
I’ve created a cozy and safe space where you can talk freely, without judgment. Whether you're looking to build healthier habits, improve your relationship with your body, or boost your self-confidence, I’m here to support you—one step at a time.
Let's explore what well-being means for you and create a life where you feel strong, confident, and at peace wit
Would you like to go deeper and talk about well-being, body image, healthy choices, and self-confidence? There’s so much that goes on in our minds—thoughts and feelings we might feel scared to share with friends, family, or loved ones. But you don’t have to carry it all alone.
I’ve created a cozy and safe space where you can talk freely, without judgment. Whether you're looking to build healthier habits, improve your relationship with your body, or boost your self-confidence, I’m here to support you—one step at a time.
Let's explore what well-being means for you and create a life where you feel strong, confident, and at peace wit

I am a warm and friendly therapist, who loves supporting children, adolescents and parents with a wide range of emotional and behavioural difficulties. I can support with anxiety , low mood, academic difficulties, ADHD, low self-esteem, trauma, grief, divorce or any other areas where your child may feel stuck. My goals include helping my young clients to reach their full potential, as well as well as increasing their self-belief and overall wellbeing. As I am an Educational Psychologist, I work only with mild to moderate difficulties and will refer clients to the correct professional, in the case of severe- or crisis presentation.
I am a warm and friendly therapist, who loves supporting children, adolescents and parents with a wide range of emotional and behavioural difficulties. I can support with anxiety , low mood, academic difficulties, ADHD, low self-esteem, trauma, grief, divorce or any other areas where your child may feel stuck. My goals include helping my young clients to reach their full potential, as well as well as increasing their self-belief and overall wellbeing. As I am an Educational Psychologist, I work only with mild to moderate difficulties and will refer clients to the correct professional, in the case of severe- or crisis presentation.

Psykhe practice consists of a group of highly qualified and experienced professonals with a range of expertise in Clinical Psychology, Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, Psychoanalysis, Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy, Parent-Child Psychotherapy, and Mentalization Based-Treatment (MBT). We welcome individuals, couples, children, teenagers, and families. At Psykhe we speak different languages, besides English: Italian, Spanish, French.
Psykhe practice consists of a group of highly qualified and experienced professonals with a range of expertise in Clinical Psychology, Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, Psychoanalysis, Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy, Parent-Child Psychotherapy, and Mentalization Based-Treatment (MBT). We welcome individuals, couples, children, teenagers, and families. At Psykhe we speak different languages, besides English: Italian, Spanish, French.

In response to the 'prompt' ... an ideal client would be ... you! Whether you are a child/tamariki, a teen/rangatahi, a young adult/mātātahi or an adult. You are currently experiencing a few challenges in your life: due to current or historical events. These may include Trauma, Grief, Abuse, Loss, Relationships, Change. Your goal is to feel heard, to be seen (a little) and to evolve from where you are. To one day feel better about your life & yourself. Your looking for somewhere safe & quiet. You may have a curiosity beyond talk therapy... wondering what is Sandplay?
In response to the 'prompt' ... an ideal client would be ... you! Whether you are a child/tamariki, a teen/rangatahi, a young adult/mātātahi or an adult. You are currently experiencing a few challenges in your life: due to current or historical events. These may include Trauma, Grief, Abuse, Loss, Relationships, Change. Your goal is to feel heard, to be seen (a little) and to evolve from where you are. To one day feel better about your life & yourself. Your looking for somewhere safe & quiet. You may have a curiosity beyond talk therapy... wondering what is Sandplay?
Toddler Counsellors
What are the behavioural signs indicating a toddler might need counselling?
Common behavioural signs that a child may need counselling include high levels of emotional distress or anxiety, learning challenges, interpersonal conflict, anger, or social withdrawal. Any drastic changes in toddler behaviour or self-esteem can be indicative that a child may benefit from therapy. Seeing a therapist at the early stages of any behavioural changes can be most impactful on behaviour, as well as helpful to caregivers who may receive guidance on what symptoms to look for in their child in the future, even if therapy is not warranted at that time.
Can a two-year-old see a psychologist?
Children and adults of all ages can see psychologists and other forms of mental health professionals, such as counsellors, psychiatrists, and social workers. Families seeking therapy for their toddler should just be aware that any guidance they seek should come from a professional who has specific experience working with young children, as well as the specific modalities that are appropriate for young children, such as play therapy.
What is the most effective type of therapy for toddlers and preschoolers?
In general, play therapy is the most effective and common form of therapy for young children. Play therapy helps facilitate behaviour change by offering an age-appropriate way for children to express their emotions and develop more effective coping strategies. Toddlers with specific concerns may benefit from more specialised forms of therapy, such as Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for toddlers in families in which there is significant parent-child relational conflict.
What happens during therapy sessions for toddlers?
What occurs in therapy sessions for toddlers depends on the therapeutic approach being used by the therapist. Most toddler therapists will use some form of play therapy in sessions to encourage toddler engagement. In play therapy sessions, children are encouraged to use toys within the therapy setting to express their emotions; subsequent responses by the therapist and/or family members can help guide toddler behaviour and behaviour change. Toddler therapy sessions can also involve family therapy or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), which can help improve parenting behaviours and reduce strain on families.