Play Therapy in Wellington
If you would like to know more about play therapy or are wondering whether play therapy might be a good fit for your child, feel free to get in touch.
I am a Play Therapist dedicated to nurturing children's wellbeing so that they can experience life knowing they are of value and having inner strengths to draw on. I work with children (3yrs - 12yrs) experiencing emotional, social and behavioural difficulties. I use play therapy to help children through both common childhood struggles and more serious concerns. Play is used because children can express more through play than they are able to with words, and because play provides a way for children to work through struggles that feels safe. Play therapy is an evidence based practice.
If you would like to know more about play therapy or are wondering whether play therapy might be a good fit for your child, feel free to get in touch.
I am a Play Therapist dedicated to nurturing children's wellbeing so that they can experience life knowing they are of value and having inner strengths to draw on. I work with children (3yrs - 12yrs) experiencing emotional, social and behavioural difficulties. I use play therapy to help children through both common childhood struggles and more serious concerns. Play is used because children can express more through play than they are able to with words, and because play provides a way for children to work through struggles that feels safe. Play therapy is an evidence based practice.
I use a person-child centred approach and use play therapy.
My name is Leith Thompson. I'm married with 4 grown children and eleven grand-children. My wife Donna and I live in Tauranga, NZ. I've been involved in the caring for people profession for over thirty years, before that I drove forklifts and worked as a baker. I have contracted to Mental Health and local Schools for many years and I have worked with ages five to eighty five. My wife and I make the most of our leisure time by enjoying good movies, great coffee and travelling. To relax I play table tennis and pool.
I use a person-child centred approach and use play therapy.
My name is Leith Thompson. I'm married with 4 grown children and eleven grand-children. My wife Donna and I live in Tauranga, NZ. I've been involved in the caring for people profession for over thirty years, before that I drove forklifts and worked as a baker. I have contracted to Mental Health and local Schools for many years and I have worked with ages five to eighty five. My wife and I make the most of our leisure time by enjoying good movies, great coffee and travelling. To relax I play table tennis and pool.
I incorporate elements of Play Therapy and Art Therapy into my usual approach when working with children/young people, as it best suits my young clients' needs.
I am a Nelson-based Psychotherapist offering short-term and long-term psychotherapy for adults, children and young people. My approach to working in therapy relies mainly on psychodynamic theories; meaning that I believe our early experiences (such as those encountered during our childhood and adolescence) have a significant impact on us. We may search for patterns in your life, to better understand what may be causing and perpetuating your problems. In long-term therapy it is crucial that you come to trust me, to share these often very personal memories and experiences.
I incorporate elements of Play Therapy and Art Therapy into my usual approach when working with children/young people, as it best suits my young clients' needs.
I am a Nelson-based Psychotherapist offering short-term and long-term psychotherapy for adults, children and young people. My approach to working in therapy relies mainly on psychodynamic theories; meaning that I believe our early experiences (such as those encountered during our childhood and adolescence) have a significant impact on us. We may search for patterns in your life, to better understand what may be causing and perpetuating your problems. In long-term therapy it is crucial that you come to trust me, to share these often very personal memories and experiences.
At times we can all feel overwhelmed by challenging emotions such as anxiety, sadness, or anger. My work involves helping people to change, grow and heal, allowing them the freedom to live the life they want to live. I am friendly and warm, with a flexible and integrative style to psychological support and believe that it is a privilege to hear people’s stories and work alongside them to make sense of things during difficult times. Change is possible, let me help you to work towards having the freedom to live the life you would like to live.
At times we can all feel overwhelmed by challenging emotions such as anxiety, sadness, or anger. My work involves helping people to change, grow and heal, allowing them the freedom to live the life they want to live. I am friendly and warm, with a flexible and integrative style to psychological support and believe that it is a privilege to hear people’s stories and work alongside them to make sense of things during difficult times. Change is possible, let me help you to work towards having the freedom to live the life you would like to live.
Overwhelmed by anxiety or depression? Struggling to cope with your relationship, life or work? Paralysed by decision making? Frustrated with those around you? Dissatisfied with where your life and relationships are at? I work with individuals, couples, children and young people, and can offer you a safe and confidential space to help you explore solutions that are right for you and your particular situation. Clients come to see me with various difficulties in their lives, including depression, loss, anxiety, bereavement, sexual abuse, trauma, low self-esteem and couples who are experiencing difficulties in their relationships.
Overwhelmed by anxiety or depression? Struggling to cope with your relationship, life or work? Paralysed by decision making? Frustrated with those around you? Dissatisfied with where your life and relationships are at? I work with individuals, couples, children and young people, and can offer you a safe and confidential space to help you explore solutions that are right for you and your particular situation. Clients come to see me with various difficulties in their lives, including depression, loss, anxiety, bereavement, sexual abuse, trauma, low self-esteem and couples who are experiencing difficulties in their relationships.
Kia ora! I'm a registered counsellor with a teaching background. I am dedicated to supporting you on your journey to mental and emotional wellbeing. I believe in the power of self-discovery and personal growth. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and a strong commitment to your unique needs. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, gain insight, and develop coping strategies to navigate life's challenges.
Kia ora! I'm a registered counsellor with a teaching background. I am dedicated to supporting you on your journey to mental and emotional wellbeing. I believe in the power of self-discovery and personal growth. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and a strong commitment to your unique needs. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, gain insight, and develop coping strategies to navigate life's challenges.
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
Marriage Therapist and Relationship Mentor
Counsellor, MNZAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellington 6011
On the brink of divorce and desperate to save your marriage? Feeling more like roommates than a happy couple? Frustrated, anxious, and scared, wondering if it's even possible to fix your relationship? I understand. With 40 years of marriage and experience helping hundreds of couples, I've seen it all—from communication breakdowns to lost intimacy. But there's hope. My Aroha Rapid Transformation Method offers a clear, practical plan to rebuild your relationship, fast. Together, we'll: • Break through old patterns • Create great communication for deeper connection • Rediscover joy and intimacy • Rebuild trust and reignite passion
On the brink of divorce and desperate to save your marriage? Feeling more like roommates than a happy couple? Frustrated, anxious, and scared, wondering if it's even possible to fix your relationship? I understand. With 40 years of marriage and experience helping hundreds of couples, I've seen it all—from communication breakdowns to lost intimacy. But there's hope. My Aroha Rapid Transformation Method offers a clear, practical plan to rebuild your relationship, fast. Together, we'll: • Break through old patterns • Create great communication for deeper connection • Rediscover joy and intimacy • Rebuild trust and reignite passion
I work mainly with adults online, using Zoom. My clients come from various backgrounds, including all sexual or religious orientations. I walk alongside you to decide on your treatment plan. If you experience depression, anxiety, work-related or relationship issues, you could benefit from my service. I work with you to realise your goals by working from an eclectic (various therapies) perspective to support you.
I work mainly with adults online, using Zoom. My clients come from various backgrounds, including all sexual or religious orientations. I walk alongside you to decide on your treatment plan. If you experience depression, anxiety, work-related or relationship issues, you could benefit from my service. I work with you to realise your goals by working from an eclectic (various therapies) perspective to support you.
Kristen offers a warm friendly environment to explore challenges or issues and acknowledge your strengths. She supports children, youth and adults (all gender preferences welcome). In conversations, you will discuss practical tools you can use in everyday life and how you can move closer to your preferred ways of being. You will develop insight and anchor skills to work through life's ‘curve balls’.
Kristen offers a warm friendly environment to explore challenges or issues and acknowledge your strengths. She supports children, youth and adults (all gender preferences welcome). In conversations, you will discuss practical tools you can use in everyday life and how you can move closer to your preferred ways of being. You will develop insight and anchor skills to work through life's ‘curve balls’.
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.
Wellbeing Counselling
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
Wellington 5022 (Online Only)
Kia ora, my name is Halen and I'm a registered counsellor. I provide online counselling therapy to individuals and couples. Yes, I have an unusual name due to my parents love for Van Halen. I also have Māori and Croatian heritage. I have worked with individuals and couples facing a variety of issues and challenges including anxiety and low mood, anger, loneliness, issues with porn, intimacy issues, chronic pain, endometriosis as well as life transitions to name a few. I provide an online space that is non-judgemental, where you are heard and where you can comfortably unpack anything of importance to you.
Kia ora, my name is Halen and I'm a registered counsellor. I provide online counselling therapy to individuals and couples. Yes, I have an unusual name due to my parents love for Van Halen. I also have Māori and Croatian heritage. I have worked with individuals and couples facing a variety of issues and challenges including anxiety and low mood, anger, loneliness, issues with porn, intimacy issues, chronic pain, endometriosis as well as life transitions to name a few. I provide an online space that is non-judgemental, where you are heard and where you can comfortably unpack anything of importance to you.
In our work together we will concentrate on you getting the authentic, most fulfilling and happy version of your life, whatever that might look like for you. With gentle support and guidance, I will help you navigate the path you choose, whether it's reducing stress, attaining inner peace, worrying less about others' opinions, gaining self-confidence, fostering enjoyable relationships, or enhancing your work life.
In our work together we will concentrate on you getting the authentic, most fulfilling and happy version of your life, whatever that might look like for you. With gentle support and guidance, I will help you navigate the path you choose, whether it's reducing stress, attaining inner peace, worrying less about others' opinions, gaining self-confidence, fostering enjoyable relationships, or enhancing your work life.
More Therapists Nearby
In my mahi, I understand that the path to wellness is unique to each person. Whether someone is dealing with anxiety, trauma, or navigating complex life transitions, I aim to provide a safe and supportive space for them to explore their journey. I take a holistic, strengths-based approach that helps individuals recognise their own resilience and take meaningful steps toward a more fulfilling pathway in life.
In my mahi, I understand that the path to wellness is unique to each person. Whether someone is dealing with anxiety, trauma, or navigating complex life transitions, I aim to provide a safe and supportive space for them to explore their journey. I take a holistic, strengths-based approach that helps individuals recognise their own resilience and take meaningful steps toward a more fulfilling pathway in life.
How lovely to find me, I’m Specialist Therapist Joy, and I’ve been in the industry for a decade now. I invest a lot into research, and into integrative healthcare, and am Harvard Medical School Educated. Distress doesn’t discriminate, and mental health exists for everyone. I’ve been a client and clinician in both public and private health, and both have virtues and vices, however I thrive in the diversity of being Internationally Licensed. I invest excellence back into my clients, and am highly empathic. Fascinated by how and why, and if you’re feeling scared to reach out-I felt scared when I needed help too. Quality care provided!
How lovely to find me, I’m Specialist Therapist Joy, and I’ve been in the industry for a decade now. I invest a lot into research, and into integrative healthcare, and am Harvard Medical School Educated. Distress doesn’t discriminate, and mental health exists for everyone. I’ve been a client and clinician in both public and private health, and both have virtues and vices, however I thrive in the diversity of being Internationally Licensed. I invest excellence back into my clients, and am highly empathic. Fascinated by how and why, and if you’re feeling scared to reach out-I felt scared when I needed help too. Quality care provided!
See more therapy options for Wellington
Play Therapy Counsellors
Who is play therapy for?
Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioural difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.
Why do people need play therapy?
Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behaviour and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.
What happens in play therapy?
A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.
What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?
Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.
How long does play therapy last?
Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behaviour.