Kia ora, I'm Vanessa (she/her)

I'm a trauma therapist and counsellor based in Christchurch, Ōtautahi. I work with adolescents and adults who are navigating the impacts of trauma, dissociation, neurodivergence, identity, grief, emotional overwhelm, and life's many transitions.

I'm Pākehā, and I hold five years of experience as a qualified counsellor registered with the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC). My approach is evidence-based, deeply relational, and grounded in the belief that healing happens not through fixing what is "wrong" with you, but through understanding the wisdom in your responses.

Many of the people I work with have spent years feeling "too much" or "not enough." Others have become experts at caring for everyone else while losing touch with themselves. Some arrive feeling broken, only to discover that what they are experiencing are understandable responses to experiences they were never meant to carry alone.

What Therapy with Me Looks Like

I offer a warm, collaborative, and non-judgemental space where all parts of you are welcome. Therapy with me is not about fixing you. It is about understanding you.

Alongside traditional talking therapy, I often incorporate creative, experiential, and body-based approaches that help move healing beyond insight and into lived experience. Together we work at a pace that feels safe and manageable, building the foundations for lasting change.

I work with the whole person — not just the presenting problem. This means we might explore your nervous system, your early relational patterns, the parts of yourself that have developed to protect you, and the ways your body holds your story.

Training & Modalities

  • EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing)

  • Internal Family Systems (IFS)

  • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

  • Somatic & Body-Based Approaches

  • Creative & Experiential Therapies

  • Deep Brain Reorientating (DBR)

  • Polyvagal-Informed Practice

  • Attachment Theory

  • Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

  • Mindfulness-Based Approaches

I have my own experiences of trauma, neurodivergence, and being part of the rainbow community. While your journey will never be the same as mine, these experiences have shaped my understanding of what it means to navigate systems that don't always fit, to question your place in the world, to heal from difficult experiences, and to learn how to build a life that feels authentic and meaningful.

I am passionate about creating a space that is affirming, inclusive, and welcoming to people of all identities, relationship styles, neurotypes, cultures, and backgrounds. Whether you identify as LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, kinky, ethically non-monogamous, questioning, or simply someone who has never quite felt like they fit the mould, you are welcome here.

When I'm not working, you'll often find me spending time in nature, exploring creative projects, listening to music, learning something new, or enjoying time with the people who matter most to me. I believe healing happens not only through therapy, but also through connection, creativity, meaning, community, and moments of joy.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • If you're reading this, something has brought you here — and that matters. Therapy can be helpful for anyone who wants to understand themselves better, process difficult experiences, or make changes in their life. You don't need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. A free 15-minute consultation is a great way to explore whether it feels like a good fit.

  • The first session is about getting to know each other. I'll ask about what brings you to therapy, your history, and what you're hoping for. It's also a chance for you to ask questions and get a sense of how I work. There's no pressure to share more than you're ready to. We move at your pace.

    Our counselling services can help you address a variety of issues including but not limited to:

    • Managing stress and anxiety

    • Overcoming depression

    • Improving relationships

    • Coping with loss and grief

    • Building self-esteem

    • Managing anger and other strong emotions

    • Increasing resilience and coping skills

    • Improving communication and problem-solving skills

    I am an experienced and compassionate counsellor who is dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. I work with you to understand your unique needs and create a personalised treatment plan that will work best for you. We offer a safe and confidential space to help you navigate the challenges of life, and we're here to support you every step of the way.

  • This varies enormously depending on what you're working on, your goals, and how you respond to therapy. Some people find significant relief in 8–12 sessions; others work with me for a year or more. We'll regularly review how things are going and adjust accordingly. You're always in control of how long you continue.

  • Yes. I offer online sessions via video call to anyone in Aotearoa New Zealand. Many clients find online therapy just as effective as in-person, and it offers more flexibility. I also offer face-to-face sessions in Christchurch, Ōtautahi.

  • I ask for at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Late cancellations (less than 24 hours) or no-shows may be charged the full session fee. I understand that life happens — if something unexpected comes up, please reach out as soon as possible.

  • Yes. I work with adolescents aged 15 and over, as well as adults. For clients under 18, I'll discuss confidentiality and parental involvement at the outset to ensure everyone is clear on how this works.

  • Yes. Everything you share in therapy is confidential, with a few important exceptions: if I have serious concerns about your safety or the safety of others, or if I am required by law to disclose information. I'll explain these limits clearly at the start of our work together.

  • This is more common than you might think, and it's completely valid. A bad experience with therapy doesn't mean therapy can't help — it often means the fit wasn't right, or the approach wasn't suited to your needs. I welcome this conversation and take it seriously. We can talk about what didn't work before and how I approach things differently.

  • Yes. I have specific experience and training in working with neurodivergent clients, including autistic people and those with ADHD. I adapt my approach to suit your needs, including communication style, session structure, and sensory considerations. You don't need a formal diagnosis to access support.

  • Yes, absolutely. I am committed to creating a genuinely affirming space for all identities, orientations, and expressions. I engage in ongoing learning and reflection to ensure my practice is truly inclusive. You will not need to educate me about your identity, and all parts of who you are are welcome here.

Fees & Funding Options

Individual Therapy

Individual therapy sessions are 50 minutes in duration and are charged at $150 incl GST per session.

Relationship, Couples & Whānau Therapy

Relationship, couples, and whānau sessions are available by arrangement and typically range from 70–90 minutes. Fees vary depending on session length.

Funding Options

I believe that financial barriers should not prevent people from accessing support. Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for funded or subsidised counselling through the following services:

ACC Sensitive Claims

If you have experienced sexual harm, you may be eligible for fully funded counselling through ACC. A formal police report is not required, and I can guide you through the process if you're unsure where to begin.

Gumboot Friday

Young people aged 5–24 years may be eligible for funded counselling sessions through Gumboot Friday. While funding allocations vary, additional support can sometimes be accessed where there is ongoing need. If you're unsure about eligibility, please get in touch and we can explore available options together.

Clearhead (EAP)

Many workplaces provide access to funded counselling through Clearhead as part of their Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). If your employer offers this service, you may be eligible for several fully funded sessions, with additional sessions sometimes available depending on your circumstances and workplace agreement.

Disability Allowance (MSD)

Some clients may be eligible to access counselling through the Ministry of Social Development's Disability Allowance. Eligibility is based on income and individual circumstances. This funding can often contribute significantly towards the cost of ongoing therapy.

A Note About Accessibility

Seeking support can feel daunting enough without financial stress. If funding is a concern, please reach out. Together we can explore available funding pathways and identify options that support your long-term wellbeing.