Therapists in Porirua
Many of the people I work with are capable, high-functioning adults who look 'fine' from the outside, but inside they’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or are carrying more than they should have to. You may be navigating relationship strain, workplace stress or burnout, trauma, or a have a sense that something could be better. Perhaps you hold responsibility for others at work or at home, and there is very little space where you can be supported yourself. I am a Masters-qualified counsellor & supervisor with substantial experience in trauma recovery, domestic & family violence work, and supporting professionals in high-pressure roles.
Many of the people I work with are capable, high-functioning adults who look 'fine' from the outside, but inside they’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or are carrying more than they should have to. You may be navigating relationship strain, workplace stress or burnout, trauma, or a have a sense that something could be better. Perhaps you hold responsibility for others at work or at home, and there is very little space where you can be supported yourself. I am a Masters-qualified counsellor & supervisor with substantial experience in trauma recovery, domestic & family violence work, and supporting professionals in high-pressure roles.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who enjoys working with people of all ages, genders and difficulties. I particularly enjoy working with young people and young adults who are struggling with their mental health in our challenging world.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who enjoys working with people of all ages, genders and difficulties. I particularly enjoy working with young people and young adults who are struggling with their mental health in our challenging world.
In moments of challenges, crisis or change, clarity and support can make all the difference. I’m here to help you regain a sense of control. I specialise in providing tailored psychological support and coaching to help you navigate your challenges and achieve personal and professional growth.
I recognise that the demands of modern life—whether you are facing transitions, managing a team, or simply balancing personal and professional responsibilities—can strain your mental and emotional resources. It's common to struggle with issues like stress, burnout, anxiety, depression or the impact of trauma and grief.
In moments of challenges, crisis or change, clarity and support can make all the difference. I’m here to help you regain a sense of control. I specialise in providing tailored psychological support and coaching to help you navigate your challenges and achieve personal and professional growth.
I recognise that the demands of modern life—whether you are facing transitions, managing a team, or simply balancing personal and professional responsibilities—can strain your mental and emotional resources. It's common to struggle with issues like stress, burnout, anxiety, depression or the impact of trauma and grief.
I believe every person carries their own strengths, wisdom, and capacity for change, even when life feels overwhelming. In counselling, I provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space to slow down, reflect, and make sense of your experiences.
Together, we explore the patterns, emotions, and stories that shape your life—uncovering what’s helpful and what may be holding you back. I support you to develop emotional regulation, build resilience, and find healthier ways of responding to stress, conflict, and difficult feelings.
I believe every person carries their own strengths, wisdom, and capacity for change, even when life feels overwhelming. In counselling, I provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space to slow down, reflect, and make sense of your experiences.
Together, we explore the patterns, emotions, and stories that shape your life—uncovering what’s helpful and what may be holding you back. I support you to develop emotional regulation, build resilience, and find healthier ways of responding to stress, conflict, and difficult feelings.
Kia ora, I’m here to support you.
My name is Tui and I’m a clinical psychologist living in Porirua. I grew up on the Kāpiti Coast and completed all my university studies in Wellington at Vic.
I currently offer online psychology sessions evenings and weekends, and can work with a variety of people. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, and have worked with people with a range of difficulties. I have a special interest in trauma and child development.
Kia ora, I’m here to support you.
My name is Tui and I’m a clinical psychologist living in Porirua. I grew up on the Kāpiti Coast and completed all my university studies in Wellington at Vic.
I currently offer online psychology sessions evenings and weekends, and can work with a variety of people. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, and have worked with people with a range of difficulties. I have a special interest in trauma and child development.
I work with individuals and couples who are functioning on the outside but struggling internally, feeling anxious, emotionally overwhelmed, disconnected in relationships, or stuck in painful repeating patterns. Many of my clients are thoughtful, capable people who find themselves overthinking, shutting down, becoming reactive in conflict, or losing themselves in relationships. Together, we work to understand the patterns beneath these experiences, develop greater self-awareness and emotional steadiness, and create more connected, intentional ways of relating to themselves and others.
I work with individuals and couples who are functioning on the outside but struggling internally, feeling anxious, emotionally overwhelmed, disconnected in relationships, or stuck in painful repeating patterns. Many of my clients are thoughtful, capable people who find themselves overthinking, shutting down, becoming reactive in conflict, or losing themselves in relationships. Together, we work to understand the patterns beneath these experiences, develop greater self-awareness and emotional steadiness, and create more connected, intentional ways of relating to themselves and others.
As a Community Psychologist in Aotearoa New Zealand, I am committed to supporting individuals, whānau, and communities who have experienced sexual violence, or who have engaged in harmful sexual behaviour. My approach is grounded in a trauma-informed, non-judgmental approach to help people make sense of their experiences and move towards meaningful, empowered lives.
Community psychology is about understanding wellbeing in context. I work from an ecological perspective, recognising the influence of social, cultural, and systemic factors.
As a Community Psychologist in Aotearoa New Zealand, I am committed to supporting individuals, whānau, and communities who have experienced sexual violence, or who have engaged in harmful sexual behaviour. My approach is grounded in a trauma-informed, non-judgmental approach to help people make sense of their experiences and move towards meaningful, empowered lives.
Community psychology is about understanding wellbeing in context. I work from an ecological perspective, recognising the influence of social, cultural, and systemic factors.
I specialise in neurodivergent conditions, including ADHD and Autism, but my approach works whether or not that label fits — practical, direct, and focused on what actually helps you function and lead well. My own family shares these dynamics, so this understanding runs deeper than theory. I work with individuals across a broad spectrum of careers and career stages — from those building momentum early on to senior executives carrying the weight of high-stakes decisions and teams. Many arrive burnt out, stretched thin, or quietly aware that how they think and work doesn't match how they're expected to perform.
I specialise in neurodivergent conditions, including ADHD and Autism, but my approach works whether or not that label fits — practical, direct, and focused on what actually helps you function and lead well. My own family shares these dynamics, so this understanding runs deeper than theory. I work with individuals across a broad spectrum of careers and career stages — from those building momentum early on to senior executives carrying the weight of high-stakes decisions and teams. Many arrive burnt out, stretched thin, or quietly aware that how they think and work doesn't match how they're expected to perform.
Kia ora, I'm Jennifer, a Registered Clinical Psychologist working part-time in private practice in Lower Hutt. I have several years of experience working with adults in public mental health services. I enjoy supporting people across a range of concerns, including low mood, anxiety, OCD, and trauma, with a particular interest in helping those experiencing anxiety and in working with young adults (18-25).
Kia ora, I'm Jennifer, a Registered Clinical Psychologist working part-time in private practice in Lower Hutt. I have several years of experience working with adults in public mental health services. I enjoy supporting people across a range of concerns, including low mood, anxiety, OCD, and trauma, with a particular interest in helping those experiencing anxiety and in working with young adults (18-25).
More Therapists Nearby
Dr Adrienne Wootton - Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Wellington 6011
Not accepting new clients
Despite our best efforts, it is normal to sometimes feel stressed out, anxious, or down. Anyone can get stuck in patterns of behaviour, or past experiences, that negatively affect us. I provide a warm and non-judgemental space to explore your difficulties and build a path towards a better life. I help people untangle the patterns that might be holding them back, guiding them towards both action and insight. While therapy can be serious stuff, compassion, patience, and even humour, are all a big part of working together. Feel free to reach out and see if I might be the right person to help.
Despite our best efforts, it is normal to sometimes feel stressed out, anxious, or down. Anyone can get stuck in patterns of behaviour, or past experiences, that negatively affect us. I provide a warm and non-judgemental space to explore your difficulties and build a path towards a better life. I help people untangle the patterns that might be holding them back, guiding them towards both action and insight. While therapy can be serious stuff, compassion, patience, and even humour, are all a big part of working together. Feel free to reach out and see if I might be the right person to help.
Do you find your thoughts overwhelming you? Are these thoughts constantly on your mind keeping you from living your life? Through life's obstacles and challenges, there is a story. You deserved to be heard for yourself or your relationship with your loved ones. Each journey with a client is unique. I am here to listen if you are experiencing anxiety, stress, anger or depression. When past traumas or present issues create road bumps in your life, I can work collaboratively to help you make sense of it all.
Do you find your thoughts overwhelming you? Are these thoughts constantly on your mind keeping you from living your life? Through life's obstacles and challenges, there is a story. You deserved to be heard for yourself or your relationship with your loved ones. Each journey with a client is unique. I am here to listen if you are experiencing anxiety, stress, anger or depression. When past traumas or present issues create road bumps in your life, I can work collaboratively to help you make sense of it all.
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.
Whether you’re interested in personal development and change, organizing and exploring group dynamics or learning and training, you might just have found what you were looking for. There is a way to overcome any problem and a personalised approach guided by excellent clinical skills, is the best and most effective way to reach that goal. Improve your performance, quit smoking, lose weight, lift your mood, face your challenges, reduce anxiety and help yourself to become who you want to be.
Whether you’re interested in personal development and change, organizing and exploring group dynamics or learning and training, you might just have found what you were looking for. There is a way to overcome any problem and a personalised approach guided by excellent clinical skills, is the best and most effective way to reach that goal. Improve your performance, quit smoking, lose weight, lift your mood, face your challenges, reduce anxiety and help yourself to become who you want to be.
You're tired of quick fixes and surface advice. Perhaps you’re finding yourself in similar patterns or navigating major transitions and need space to think through what you actually want, not just what you're supposed to want.
You might be creative, philosophical, or someone who thinks deeply. You appreciate directness and depth. You're ready to be challenged gently and sit with complexity rather than rush toward easy answers.
You're don't need someone to fix you, and I promise I won't try.
You're tired of quick fixes and surface advice. Perhaps you’re finding yourself in similar patterns or navigating major transitions and need space to think through what you actually want, not just what you're supposed to want.
You might be creative, philosophical, or someone who thinks deeply. You appreciate directness and depth. You're ready to be challenged gently and sit with complexity rather than rush toward easy answers.
You're don't need someone to fix you, and I promise I won't try.
From the outside, your life looks fine. A good job, people who care about you, everything in place. Yet inside there's a quiet sense that something is missing, or that you're living a life that isn't quite yours. Perhaps you spend so much energy caring for others, or worrying what they think, that you can no longer hear yourself. Reaching out takes courage, but it's worth it: while tough times will always be part of life, you don't have to suffer unnecessarily anymore. I believe we are shaped, and sometimes hurt, in relationships, so healing and change happen through relationship too.
From the outside, your life looks fine. A good job, people who care about you, everything in place. Yet inside there's a quiet sense that something is missing, or that you're living a life that isn't quite yours. Perhaps you spend so much energy caring for others, or worrying what they think, that you can no longer hear yourself. Reaching out takes courage, but it's worth it: while tough times will always be part of life, you don't have to suffer unnecessarily anymore. I believe we are shaped, and sometimes hurt, in relationships, so healing and change happen through relationship too.
Kia Ora, I'm Sarah, a compassionate and experienced therapist based in Paraparaumu.
I have worked in a variety of mental health settings, including primary and secondary health systems. Though out my career I have helped individuals and families navigate life's challenges and find inner strength.
I currently run a clinic on Saturday from a central location in Kāpiti.
Kia Ora, I'm Sarah, a compassionate and experienced therapist based in Paraparaumu.
I have worked in a variety of mental health settings, including primary and secondary health systems. Though out my career I have helped individuals and families navigate life's challenges and find inner strength.
I currently run a clinic on Saturday from a central location in Kāpiti.
I have 32 years experience in counselling and psychotherapy. The work is client centred. I encourage my clients to check in with their whole body to develop self-respect and the capacity to 'stand your ground' through listening deeply to yourself to discern which beliefs and emotions are getting in the way of a balanced life. You may experience some unmet early needs that inform your present way of thinking about the world. These are protective habit/beliefs which may get in the way of you enjoying the present.
I may suggest you do some movements at home between sessions.
I have 32 years experience in counselling and psychotherapy. The work is client centred. I encourage my clients to check in with their whole body to develop self-respect and the capacity to 'stand your ground' through listening deeply to yourself to discern which beliefs and emotions are getting in the way of a balanced life. You may experience some unmet early needs that inform your present way of thinking about the world. These are protective habit/beliefs which may get in the way of you enjoying the present.
I may suggest you do some movements at home between sessions.
I specialise in coaching clients across New Zealand and Australia who are feeling lost within themselves and/or struggling with life's challenges. For many, they've become overwhelmed with keeping all the balls in the air while trying to be all their family needs them to be. My expertise is in guiding clients find clarity and a purpose they're comfortable with.
I particularly focus on those facing new health or life challenge/transitions, supporting clients with stress resilience, anxiety, sleep difficulties, family and relationship transitions, and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and/or chronic fatigue.
More info: www.resilientmind.co.nz
I specialise in coaching clients across New Zealand and Australia who are feeling lost within themselves and/or struggling with life's challenges. For many, they've become overwhelmed with keeping all the balls in the air while trying to be all their family needs them to be. My expertise is in guiding clients find clarity and a purpose they're comfortable with.
I particularly focus on those facing new health or life challenge/transitions, supporting clients with stress resilience, anxiety, sleep difficulties, family and relationship transitions, and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and/or chronic fatigue.
More info: www.resilientmind.co.nz
I am a Clinical Psychologist, registered with the NZ Psychologists Board, with over 10 years experience working with diverse client groups. I have a particular interest in the resolution of childhood adversity/trauma and how these experiences intricately intertwine with present day difficulties.
We have all experienced challenges in our past. If some of those challenges continue to create problems today, then we will be able to work through those problems using proven methods to obtain real relief and long-lasting improved living. Things can, and will, get better.
I am a Clinical Psychologist, registered with the NZ Psychologists Board, with over 10 years experience working with diverse client groups. I have a particular interest in the resolution of childhood adversity/trauma and how these experiences intricately intertwine with present day difficulties.
We have all experienced challenges in our past. If some of those challenges continue to create problems today, then we will be able to work through those problems using proven methods to obtain real relief and long-lasting improved living. Things can, and will, get better.
Kia ora, Guten Tag, Merhaba!
I have a background working with diverse communities in both Germany and Aotearoa New Zealand, and I bring a strong commitment to social justice to my work. I’m passionate about creating an inclusive, culturally responsive space where clients feel safe, respected, and understood.
Speaking multiple languages fluently and growing up in multilingual, multicultural environments has profoundly shaped who I am - as we say in Turkish, bir lisan, bir insan (“one language, one person”).
Originally from Berlin, I call Wellington home and love being part of the local community.
Kia ora, Guten Tag, Merhaba!
I have a background working with diverse communities in both Germany and Aotearoa New Zealand, and I bring a strong commitment to social justice to my work. I’m passionate about creating an inclusive, culturally responsive space where clients feel safe, respected, and understood.
Speaking multiple languages fluently and growing up in multilingual, multicultural environments has profoundly shaped who I am - as we say in Turkish, bir lisan, bir insan (“one language, one person”).
Originally from Berlin, I call Wellington home and love being part of the local community.
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Porirua
< 10
Counsellors in Porirua who prioritize treating:
| 78% | Anxiety |
| 78% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 67% | Relationship Issues |
| 67% | Self Esteem |
| 67% | Stress |
| 56% | Depression |
| 44% | Sexual Abuse |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Gender breakdown
| 78% | Female | |
| 22% | Male |
How Counsellors in Porirua see their clients
| 78% | In Person and Online | |
| 22% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Porirua?
Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postcode, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postcode into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Psychologists listed in the directory are registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board under the Health Practitioners Competency Assurance Act 2003 (HPCA Act). To be listed in the directory, psychotherapists must be registered through the Psychotherapists Board of Aotearoa New Zealand. Counsellors listed in the directory should have a minimum training of NZQF 6 or higher, and many are registered with a professional body, such as the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC).
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for counsellors in New Zealand, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for counsellors in New Zealand, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Psychologists, counsellors, and psychotherapists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and supervised, practical experience that enable them to do so in New Zealand.
Psychologists possess a minimum of a master's degree in Psychology and are registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board. Psychotherapists typically hold the equivalent of a Master's or Doctorate Degree in Psychotherapy, depending on their programme of study. Many psychotherapists have themselves undergone psychotherapy as part of their training. In order to be a member of NZAC, Counsellors must have a bachelor's or master's degree in Counselling and complete ongoing professional development and education.
Psychologists possess a minimum of a master's degree in Psychology and are registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board. Psychotherapists typically hold the equivalent of a Master's or Doctorate Degree in Psychotherapy, depending on their programme of study. Many psychotherapists have themselves undergone psychotherapy as part of their training. In order to be a member of NZAC, Counsellors must have a bachelor's or master's degree in Counselling and complete ongoing professional development and education.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, the cost of a therapy session in New Zealand could be between $100 and $200. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. To access these services you will need to be assessed and referred by your GP or family doctor. However, you will have limited choice regarding the specialist and the length of treatment that will be assigned to you. In addition, Community Mental Health and Addiction services are also available through your local District Health Board (DHB).
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. To access these services you will need to be assessed and referred by your GP or family doctor. However, you will have limited choice regarding the specialist and the length of treatment that will be assigned to you. In addition, Community Mental Health and Addiction services are also available through your local District Health Board (DHB).
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postcode.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Professionals registered with the Boards and/or who are members of professional organisations are obligated to uphold client confidentiality unless there is a legal reason that requires them to disclose information. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others, or a court order, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.