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

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.