Addiction Therapists in Wellington

Photo of Tetteh B Lomotey - Tetteh Lomotey (Anansi Consulting), MSc
Tetteh Lomotey (Anansi Consulting)
MSc
Verified Verified
Wellington 6011
Kia Ora! Ko Tetteh tōku ingoa. Nō Ghana ōku tīpuna. I’m a native of Newark, New Jersey (USA) and relocated to Wellington, Aotearoa in 2021 where I currently reside. I specialize in comprehensive, evidence-based support for diverse concerns like anxiety, depression, PTSD, racial trauma, & addiction. I'm also deeply committed to fostering inclusivity and addressing issues of racism, discrimination, and belonging. My psycho-social, holistic, & trauma-informed approach ensures personalized care. Having also worked extensively in the criminal justice field, I bring a wealth of knowledge to guide individuals towards their healing journey.
Kia Ora! Ko Tetteh tōku ingoa. Nō Ghana ōku tīpuna. I’m a native of Newark, New Jersey (USA) and relocated to Wellington, Aotearoa in 2021 where I currently reside. I specialize in comprehensive, evidence-based support for diverse concerns like anxiety, depression, PTSD, racial trauma, & addiction. I'm also deeply committed to fostering inclusivity and addressing issues of racism, discrimination, and belonging. My psycho-social, holistic, & trauma-informed approach ensures personalized care. Having also worked extensively in the criminal justice field, I bring a wealth of knowledge to guide individuals towards their healing journey.
0800 468 212 x43 View 0800 468 212 x43
Photo of Vicky Clothier - Restoring Minds Therapy , Counsellor
Restoring Minds Therapy
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Wellington 6023
I am trained in the following modalities; Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Addiction Counselling, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Diversity Affirming Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
Therapy is a place to feel known and understood, a place to overcome painful experiences, and explore new ways of being with yourself and others. ​
I am trained in the following modalities; Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Addiction Counselling, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Diversity Affirming Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
Therapy is a place to feel known and understood, a place to overcome painful experiences, and explore new ways of being with yourself and others. ​
0800 447 264 x30 View 0800 447 264 x30
Photo of Aims Beech, Counsellor
Aims Beech
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Wellington 6011  (Online Only)
Kia ora I'm Aims. I am currently offering 1:1 AOD counselling and supervision online. I offer a person-centered approach to addressing substance use and supporting you to improve your life circumstances related to your goals. This involves harm reduction, relapse prevention and recovery capital - rather than the traditional abstinence approach. I am also providing supervision as a qualified DAPAANZ supervisor.
Kia ora I'm Aims. I am currently offering 1:1 AOD counselling and supervision online. I offer a person-centered approach to addressing substance use and supporting you to improve your life circumstances related to your goals. This involves harm reduction, relapse prevention and recovery capital - rather than the traditional abstinence approach. I am also providing supervision as a qualified DAPAANZ supervisor.
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Photo of John Newton - John Newton, psychodynamic therapist, PhD
John Newton, psychodynamic therapist
PhD
Verified Verified
Wellington 6011
However we grow up, childhood experience creates habits and expectations that shape our adult selves. Often these habits seem to get in our way. What once kept us safe may now cause us pain, inhibition, depression, addiction and more. Therapy begins with the experience of being heard, without judgement. The client is the expert on their own way of living. So I ask them to teach me about themselves, while I try to get a feeling for the things that frustrate them and how they might find the freedom to live richer, more satisfying lives.
However we grow up, childhood experience creates habits and expectations that shape our adult selves. Often these habits seem to get in our way. What once kept us safe may now cause us pain, inhibition, depression, addiction and more. Therapy begins with the experience of being heard, without judgement. The client is the expert on their own way of living. So I ask them to teach me about themselves, while I try to get a feeling for the things that frustrate them and how they might find the freedom to live richer, more satisfying lives.
0800 468 212 x80 View 0800 468 212 x80
Photo of Bridget Stella Wilson, Counsellor
Bridget Stella Wilson
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Wellington 5016
I believe that addiction is a primary disease and that a person's other issues will stem from this fundamental problem. Therefore it's important to treat the addiction first. People with addiction often use alcohol and other drugs or behaviours to 'cope'. In the beginning the substance or the behaviour (such as sex addiction) was the 'solution', but after a while it became the problem. My approach is to offer therapy that is focused on a new, results-focused solution. The goal is offering my clients 'tools' so that they can change behaviour that is causing problems in their lives.
I believe that addiction is a primary disease and that a person's other issues will stem from this fundamental problem. Therefore it's important to treat the addiction first. People with addiction often use alcohol and other drugs or behaviours to 'cope'. In the beginning the substance or the behaviour (such as sex addiction) was the 'solution', but after a while it became the problem. My approach is to offer therapy that is focused on a new, results-focused solution. The goal is offering my clients 'tools' so that they can change behaviour that is causing problems in their lives.
0800 627 004 x82 View 0800 627 004 x82
Photo of Bridget Stella Wilson, Counsellor
Bridget Stella Wilson
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Wellington 5016
I specialise in treating people with addiction, as well as their families. I believe the disease of addiction is one that we can recover from and that it's a health problem that can be treated successfully. My approach is client-centred using modalities including motivational interviewing, CBT and the 12 Steps. I studied at the Hazelden Graduate School of Addiction Studies in Minnesota, USA, graduating in 2009. I am registered with the New Zealand Addiction Practitioners' Association, Dapaanz, a professional organisation with a code of ethics. I am also a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT).
I specialise in treating people with addiction, as well as their families. I believe the disease of addiction is one that we can recover from and that it's a health problem that can be treated successfully. My approach is client-centred using modalities including motivational interviewing, CBT and the 12 Steps. I studied at the Hazelden Graduate School of Addiction Studies in Minnesota, USA, graduating in 2009. I am registered with the New Zealand Addiction Practitioners' Association, Dapaanz, a professional organisation with a code of ethics. I am also a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT).
0800 627 004 x57 View 0800 627 004 x57
Photo of James Peter Moana Hill - Moana Hill Psychotherapy, PBANZ, Psychotherapist
Moana Hill Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PBANZ
Verified Verified
Wellington 6011
Clients offer an array of personal difficulties, seeking insight to issues that are consuming their normally functional life. I have treated clients on a wide spectrum of issues, ranging from mental, physical, emotional, cultural and spiritual ailments. As we uncover a client's personal narrative, their initial needs may change, yet the result remains the same, to find a sense of security and hope in their personal life.
Clients offer an array of personal difficulties, seeking insight to issues that are consuming their normally functional life. I have treated clients on a wide spectrum of issues, ranging from mental, physical, emotional, cultural and spiritual ailments. As we uncover a client's personal narrative, their initial needs may change, yet the result remains the same, to find a sense of security and hope in their personal life.
0800 627 003 x42 View 0800 627 003 x42
Photo of Vicki Maree Fowler, PhD, NZPsS Member, Psychologist
Vicki Maree Fowler
Psychologist, PhD, NZPsS Member
Verified Verified
Wellington 6011
My name is Dr Vicki Fowler (PhD) and I am a Life Coach & Registered Psychologist. I would like to welcome my very special clients to my website www.drvickifowler.com. As a Life Coach I enjoy setting meaningful goals for clients and as a Registered Psychologist I am able to clinically work with a range of conditions and issues. My charge-out rate is ($172.50 incl GST per hour). My Special Clients are Clients seeking Help for Anxiety/Depression, Stress, Work & Relationship Difficulties, Alcohol, Gambling, Grief/Bereavement & Other Issues. I look forward to working with you to achieve goals that you want in a clinically meaningful way.
My name is Dr Vicki Fowler (PhD) and I am a Life Coach & Registered Psychologist. I would like to welcome my very special clients to my website www.drvickifowler.com. As a Life Coach I enjoy setting meaningful goals for clients and as a Registered Psychologist I am able to clinically work with a range of conditions and issues. My charge-out rate is ($172.50 incl GST per hour). My Special Clients are Clients seeking Help for Anxiety/Depression, Stress, Work & Relationship Difficulties, Alcohol, Gambling, Grief/Bereavement & Other Issues. I look forward to working with you to achieve goals that you want in a clinically meaningful way.
021 415 588 View 021 415 588
Photo of Sander Maximilian Leona Sollie - Mind Matters Most - Sander Sollie, MSc, Psychologist
Mind Matters Most - Sander Sollie
Psychologist, MSc
Verified Verified
Wellington 6011
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.
0800 447 264 x43 View 0800 447 264 x43
Photo of Steve McVey, MNZAC, Counsellor
Steve McVey
Counsellor, MNZAC
Verified Verified
Wellington 6011
Not accepting new clients
Steve has extensive experience working with adults and young people on a variety of issues, including grief and loss, anxiety, depression, issues around adjustment/life changes, interpersonal issues to gender and sexuality. As a registered counsellor and supervisor with the New Zealand Association of Counsellors he uses evidenced based approaches to support clients wanting explore aspects of their life while raising awareness and building resilience. Steve is warm with a sense of humor and particularly passionate about supporting marginalised and LBGTQI+ people. He's held various roles in NGOs & PHOs in Australia the UK and NZ.
Steve has extensive experience working with adults and young people on a variety of issues, including grief and loss, anxiety, depression, issues around adjustment/life changes, interpersonal issues to gender and sexuality. As a registered counsellor and supervisor with the New Zealand Association of Counsellors he uses evidenced based approaches to support clients wanting explore aspects of their life while raising awareness and building resilience. Steve is warm with a sense of humor and particularly passionate about supporting marginalised and LBGTQI+ people. He's held various roles in NGOs & PHOs in Australia the UK and NZ.
0800 447 359 x24 View 0800 447 359 x24
Maynard Gilgen
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Wellington 6037
Commonly there is a range, e.g., addictions, mental health, offending, whānau dynamics, intergenerational trauma from colonisation and racist policies
Commonly there is a range, e.g., addictions, mental health, offending, whānau dynamics, intergenerational trauma from colonisation and racist policies
0800 627 003 x88 View 0800 627 003 x88
Photo of Hayden Isaac, PBANZ, Psychotherapist
Hayden Isaac
Psychotherapist, PBANZ
Verified Verified
Wellington 6011
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a registered psychotherapist (PBANZ), and I specialise in group and individual psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I welcome all those who are struggling with mental health difficulties and those who want to have a greater understanding of who they are.
I’m a registered psychotherapist (PBANZ), and I specialise in group and individual psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I welcome all those who are struggling with mental health difficulties and those who want to have a greater understanding of who they are.
0800 468 212 x51 View 0800 468 212 x51
Photo of Tommy Livingston, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional, Counsellor
Tommy Livingston
Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
Wellington 6011
Counselling is for everyone — whether you’re stressed or overwhelmed by current challenges, or you want to address some things that have been hanging over you for many years. As a counsellor, I play a unique role. Because I’m separate to your friends and family, I can offer a fresh perspective, which can be helpful and empowering. I’m trained to listen to your story with empathy, to identify areas that you may not be able to see, and to help you to make meaningful changes that allow you to build a healthy and fulfilling life. I help some of my clients to unpack their life story in a safe and supported way.
Counselling is for everyone — whether you’re stressed or overwhelmed by current challenges, or you want to address some things that have been hanging over you for many years. As a counsellor, I play a unique role. Because I’m separate to your friends and family, I can offer a fresh perspective, which can be helpful and empowering. I’m trained to listen to your story with empathy, to identify areas that you may not be able to see, and to help you to make meaningful changes that allow you to build a healthy and fulfilling life. I help some of my clients to unpack their life story in a safe and supported way.
0800 447 359 x49 View 0800 447 359 x49
Photo of Anne Holleron, PBANZ, Psychotherapist
Anne Holleron
Psychotherapist, PBANZ
Verified Verified
Wellington 6012
I offer a safe, warm, confidential environment where you will be seen as a whole person. I will talk with you about any present or historical challenges you have by exploring your thoughts and emotions as we pay attention to and work therapeutically with what is also happening within your body. Physical signs we may observe together during your session can include changes in breathing, muscular tension, numbness, emotion, pain and differences in temperature as can happen during anxiety, depression and trauma. How we work together will depend on what issues are significant for you and what your needs are for each session.
I offer a safe, warm, confidential environment where you will be seen as a whole person. I will talk with you about any present or historical challenges you have by exploring your thoughts and emotions as we pay attention to and work therapeutically with what is also happening within your body. Physical signs we may observe together during your session can include changes in breathing, muscular tension, numbness, emotion, pain and differences in temperature as can happen during anxiety, depression and trauma. How we work together will depend on what issues are significant for you and what your needs are for each session.
0800 627 024 x62 View 0800 627 024 x62
Photo of Debra Jayne Fraser - Psychology&Counselling Partners Ltd, Dr Deb Fraser, PhD
Psychology&Counselling Partners Ltd, Dr Deb Fraser
PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellington 6011  (Online Only)
I work with people on their healing journey who are over 20yrs who are not finding meaning in their life struggles. It may be despondency, fear, difficulties in relationships, a lack of self-compassion and/or other issues that fuel their troubles. Within the therapeutic relationship we explore what's been previously unheard and unacknowledged to find a place of safety, ease and peace inside and out. Difficult feelings are signals to unmet needs, and together we explore and work through unfinished business and grief to arrive at needs being met, self-acceptance and previously untapped positive energy (prev as a Health Psychologist).
I work with people on their healing journey who are over 20yrs who are not finding meaning in their life struggles. It may be despondency, fear, difficulties in relationships, a lack of self-compassion and/or other issues that fuel their troubles. Within the therapeutic relationship we explore what's been previously unheard and unacknowledged to find a place of safety, ease and peace inside and out. Difficult feelings are signals to unmet needs, and together we explore and work through unfinished business and grief to arrive at needs being met, self-acceptance and previously untapped positive energy (prev as a Health Psychologist).
0800 627 003 x21 View 0800 627 003 x21
Photo of Nigel Guy, Counsellor
Nigel Guy
Counsellor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wellington 6011
Tēnā koe, I'm Nigel. I'm an ACT, CBT and EMDR therapist based in Te Whanganui-a-Tara/Wellington and online. I identify as queer and use he/him/his pronouns. Whether you’re looking to learn new skills and strategies, heal from trauma, or seeking a listening ear, I have the experience and expertise to help. Establishing an open and affirming space is really important to me and I value developing therapeutic relationships. I work with people aged 16 years and over. I enjoy hiking, sharing good food with friends and adding to my ever-growing collection of ceramics.
Tēnā koe, I'm Nigel. I'm an ACT, CBT and EMDR therapist based in Te Whanganui-a-Tara/Wellington and online. I identify as queer and use he/him/his pronouns. Whether you’re looking to learn new skills and strategies, heal from trauma, or seeking a listening ear, I have the experience and expertise to help. Establishing an open and affirming space is really important to me and I value developing therapeutic relationships. I work with people aged 16 years and over. I enjoy hiking, sharing good food with friends and adding to my ever-growing collection of ceramics.
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Photo of Rebecca Gouldhurst, MA, NZAC - Provisional, Counsellor
Rebecca Gouldhurst
Counsellor, MA, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
Wellington 6022
Welcome to the world of Counselling, I provide holistic health care and guidance, having trained in Naturopathy, Counselling, and Gestalt Psychotherpay. With over 25 years’ experience. I welcome people of all cultures, gender and religions. My approach is collaborative, practical and intuitive, drawing on a range of modalities, personalised for your needs. I offer a safe and confidential space, providing support, so you can share what is truly going on for you and unburden yourself, to then find new ways to live your life. For many people Counselling is not a easy choice but taking your first steps, can be a huge relief.
Welcome to the world of Counselling, I provide holistic health care and guidance, having trained in Naturopathy, Counselling, and Gestalt Psychotherpay. With over 25 years’ experience. I welcome people of all cultures, gender and religions. My approach is collaborative, practical and intuitive, drawing on a range of modalities, personalised for your needs. I offer a safe and confidential space, providing support, so you can share what is truly going on for you and unburden yourself, to then find new ways to live your life. For many people Counselling is not a easy choice but taking your first steps, can be a huge relief.
0800 627 050 x95 View 0800 627 050 x95
Photo of Naomi Carleton, Psychologist
Naomi Carleton
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Wellington 5016  (Online Only)
Naomi is an Australian and NZ registered psychologist with 18 years experience working with adults, adolescents and children. Naomi is known for her warmth, understanding and approachability. She enjoys supporting and working alongside her clients to improve their quality of life and help them achieve their own personal goals.
Naomi is an Australian and NZ registered psychologist with 18 years experience working with adults, adolescents and children. Naomi is known for her warmth, understanding and approachability. She enjoys supporting and working alongside her clients to improve their quality of life and help them achieve their own personal goals.
0800 327 477 View 0800 327 477
Photo of Maarten Nico Mulholland, MA, Counsellor
Maarten Nico Mulholland
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Wellington 6012  (Online Only)
Maarten completed his MA Counseling through Monash University in Melbourne Australia and is a registered counsellor with the ACA. He has been associated with lifelines both in New Zealand and Japan, as well as distance counseling via online services. With over 25 years experience in education and counseling, he offers a supportive perspective that will help bring clarity in times of difficulty. Maarten’s theoretical orientation is firmly client centered, with cognitive behavioral therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness as major influencers.
Maarten completed his MA Counseling through Monash University in Melbourne Australia and is a registered counsellor with the ACA. He has been associated with lifelines both in New Zealand and Japan, as well as distance counseling via online services. With over 25 years experience in education and counseling, he offers a supportive perspective that will help bring clarity in times of difficulty. Maarten’s theoretical orientation is firmly client centered, with cognitive behavioral therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness as major influencers.
0800 627 004 x41 View 0800 627 004 x41
Photo of Grant Wattie - Relationship Mentor and Coach, MNZAC, Counsellor
Relationship Mentor and Coach
Counsellor, MNZAC
Verified Verified
Wellington 6011
Are you struggling with your relationship? Do you feel more like roommates than a happy couple? Do you feel frustrated, anxious, and afraid, wondering if it's even possible to fix it? I will help create a clear, plan with the exact steps to build a thriving relationship, fast. Together, we'll break through old patterns, create great communication for more connection, to rediscover the joy and intimacy you both want. If you're ready to work on yourself and your partnership and experience a truly exceptional relationship, I'm here to guide you every step of the way.
Are you struggling with your relationship? Do you feel more like roommates than a happy couple? Do you feel frustrated, anxious, and afraid, wondering if it's even possible to fix it? I will help create a clear, plan with the exact steps to build a thriving relationship, fast. Together, we'll break through old patterns, create great communication for more connection, to rediscover the joy and intimacy you both want. If you're ready to work on yourself and your partnership and experience a truly exceptional relationship, I'm here to guide you every step of the way.
0800 627 003 x20 View 0800 627 003 x20
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Addiction Counsellors

What is the best therapy for addiction?

Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.