Kia ora; nau mai, haere mai. Hello, and welcome.
“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” ~ Mary Oliver
In a world that can be beyond overwhelming, it’s easy to feel worn out as we get swept away into all that is happening around us, as well as into unhelpful habits, anxiety, stress and low moods.
Like being caught in a rip that pulls us away from shore, we can find ourselves caught in patterns that drag us away from what matters - and a life we know to be wild, precious and brief. It’s not our fault; and for some this may be a way of staying safe in a world that hasn’t been kind.
Therapy is a place where you might regain steadiness, and regain your bearings. And to begin, gently and deliberately, making your way back toward what matters most; meeting tricky, dark thoughts and feelings as they show up, with skill, choice and flexibility.
This can be powerful, exciting work, freeing you to shape a life that feels more you; intentional, clear, alive, joyful. Even during difficult times.
A little about me
My homeland is South Africa. Following a long chapter in Australia, my life and work are now in Taranaki, Aotearoa (New Zealand). I practise with respect for tangata whenua and the land that holds this work.
I’m Catharina, a New Zealand registered counselling psychologist, with nearly 30 years in this mahi. My biggest teachers are the clients I have the privilege to work with, life experience and ongoing training.
My approach
I draw mainly from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), an evidence-based and practical approach that can help with a wide range of issues - from building new health and wellbeing habits, to managing chronic health conditions, stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions and grief.
At the heart of my work is a deep belief that there is always, always possibility, and hope; and that every person has within them an immense strength and healing capacity.
It’s important to me to offer therapy that is culturally sensitive, tailored for you and genuinely helpful. I also value making therapy accessible, and, especially while working only online, am keeping my fees as low as possible.
Working together
At present, all appointments are online (phone or secure video); the fee is $120 per session. Fees are reduced for people over 65. A referral is not required to access private psychology appointments, although I accept a range of referrals.
In the near future, I’ll be offering walk-and-talk therapy and in-person counselling in New Plymouth. If you’re interested, you’re welcome to email me or sign up for the newsletter below to be kept informed.
We can also work together through Clearhead’s online EAP services.
I prefer rainy days and dramatic skies to heat and sunshine, and don’t do too well with small talk. A few of my favourite things ~ walking in New Plymouth’s breath-taking nature with my husband and golden retriever, spending time with our 3 children (all grown up), reading and big mugs of tea.
A next step
If it feels like this work may be helpful, you’re welcome to get in touch via email, text or call,
026 686 5609
New clients can book a free 15 minute korero (chat) - a starting point to ask questions, talk things through and see if this might be the right step for you.
Ellies are known to gather when one of the herd is struggling, to help and support. I sometimes say to clients, “it’s time to gather your elephants”. Your outer elephants may be the whānau and community who lift you up and strengthen you. Inner elephants, qualities you muster from within, which can help see you though difficult times - such as a toolbag of skills you draw on, your strengths, values, wairua and sense of connection - to nature, aroha, faith, purpose.
