Jordan McCraeNot too long ago, my friend struggled with anxiety and was referred to a psychologist. On paper, this psychologist seemed perfect for him. But his experience was far from ideal. He would leave feeling more confused and unsupported than when he arrived.
His disappointing experience made me realise how important it is to find the right psychologist. You need someone who has the proper qualifications and empathy.
With the help of the Auckland magazine team, we sifted through recommendations and spoke to people about their healing journeys.
So, whether you’re seeking therapy for personal growth or mental health care, here’s our list of the top psychologists in Auckland.
| How much does it cost to go to a psychologist in Auckland? Going to a psychologist in Auckland can cost at least 150 NZD per session. This price will vary depending on the psychologist’s experience and other factors. |
How We Chose
1. ABL Psychological Services
Address: 4 Drumconnell Drive, Flat Bush, Auckland 2019, New Zealand
Contact Details: +6492733577
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 11 AM to 4:30 PM
ABL Psychological Services helps people with learning, behavioural, emotional, and social challenges. They diagnose and treat autism, ADHD, and traumatic brain injuries.
The head psychologist, Prakash, has 30 years of experience. He’s also trained as a speech-language therapist, audiologist, and counsellor.
But many come to him for his positive programming plan. His plan focuses on organisation, emotional well-being, and sensory integration. He also helps with positive parenting and self-esteem.
Many parents also love how he assists with dyslexia. He helps reduce frustrations that lead to negative behaviour.
Others also appreciate the thorough assessments, specialised therapy, and ongoing support from the staff. His team’s compassionate nature was a frequent highlight in the testimonials we heard.
Due to high demand, though, getting an appointment can be tough. Many of the people we interviewed suggested booking well in advance to secure a timely slot.
Pros
- Extensive expertise
- Therapy for disabilities
- Effective positive programming plan
- Compassionate staff
- Thorough assessments
Cons
- Difficulty in booking appointments
Customer Reviews
We have definitely benefited, especially in the area of learning support
“Prakash is very proficient with his services. He tailors his advice to the individual and works through step by step. It is definitely a partnership between Prakash and families. A professional opinion is very helpful to chart a course for the future. We have definitely benefited, especially in the area of learning support.”
– Daniel Nickoley Google Review
Prakash leverages his experiences to quickly identify the most appropriate frameworks
“We are pleased with the results. Prakash leverages his experiences to quickly identify the most appropriate frameworks and a way forward for the patient as well as the family. Works for the child in the situations that they have found themselves in. We are happy with the results.”
– Matt Harkness Google Review
2. Sarah Bramhall Psychological Services
Contact: [email protected]
Sarah Bramhall is best for individuals struggling with PTSD, addiction, and offence-focused rehabilitation. She’s an ideal choice if you’re looking for someone who can help you identify and break negative cycles.
Besides having two degrees in psychology, Sarah Bramhall is affiliated with the New Zealand Psychological Society and the British Psychological Society. So, you can trust her capabilities to help you process your challenges.
Many of her patients shared that she creates a comfortable and safe space, making it easier for them to open up. They also appreciate her dedication to helping them understand the distressing patterns in their lives.
She uses various evidence-based therapies, like Schema Therapy, ACT, and EMDR. Many have mentioned how effective these techniques have been in their healing journeys.
Keep in mind, though, that it can take a few weeks to get an initial appointment.
Pros
- Specialises in breaking negative cycles
- Affiliated with the New Zealand Psychological Society
- Part of the British Psychological Society
- Creates a comfortable and safe space
- Uses evidence-based therapies
Cons
- Long wait time for appointments
Customer Reviews
Sarah is very professional, after every session I feel more grounded and insightful
“Sarah gives the most warm and welcoming psychology services I have ever been to.
She allows you to feel extremely comfortable and helps you deal with any concerns or issues you may have. Sarah is very professional, after every session I feel more grounded and insightful.
Would 100% recommend!”
– Rochelle Pitout, Google Reviews
I feel totally in a safe place with a renewed energy toward any struggles after a session with sarah
“Patient, professional, easy to speak to, great communication, I feel totally in a safe place with a renewed energy toward any struggles after a session with sarah. Having professional advice on even the small things is so reassuring and helps manage anxiety or common things everyone might endure from time to time 😀”
– Aneia Warner Salon, Google Reviews
3. Empowerment Psychology
Address: 80 College Hill, Freemans Bay, Auckland 1011, New Zealand
Contact Details: [email protected]
Empowerment Psychology helps parents facing mental health challenges like pre and postnatal depression. They are also good for people with anxiety, birth trauma, and ADHD.
Missy Wolfman, the founder, specialises in cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT). She also does eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.
Missy’s empathetic approach and practical strategies have helped many who struggle with postnatal anxiety. Several commented that they’ve been able to regain control of their lives after sessions with her.
Others also appreciated her holistic approach, which combines psychological support with practical parenting advice. With Missy, it’s more than just talking. It’s about effectively coping with past traumas.
In cases of ADHD, Missy’s specialised assessments are thorough and accurate. She focuses not just on managing symptoms but also on understanding them. Everyone we spoke to felt a sense of relief and validation after their assessments.
Due to her practice’s popularity, there may be a waiting list for new patients. She also does not offer virtual sessions, so in-person visits to the clinic are required.
Pros
- Focus on perinatal mental health
- ADHD assessments available
- Empathetic approach
- Practical parenting advice
Cons
- Waiting list
- No virtual sessions
Customer Reviews
I found her very friendly and felt at ease quickly
“Missy helped complete my ADHD diagnosis after 6 years of me putting it off, I found her very friendly and felt at ease quickly. She was very transparent and made the process easy to understand and complete. Would highly recommend her services for anyone in a similar position.”
– King Pukeko, Google Reviews
Wonderful words of wisdom with practical and effective strategies
Thank you Missy for your wonderful words of wisdom with practical and effective strategies including helpful examples to nurture wellbeing that you shared in our multiples club lockdown group session.
– Amanda Kate, Google Reviews
4. Kidz Therapy Ltd/KTL Tuition
Address: 642 New North Road, Morningside, Auckland 1022, New Zealand
Contact Details: +6498494232
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 12 PM
If your child struggles with anxiety, depression, or communication difficulties, Kidz Therapy could be helpful. They address various challenges, from managing stress and emotional outbursts to supporting neurodiverse conditions.
Many parents have found the psychologists’ individualised approach beneficial, helping their children manage anxiety better and perform well in school.
Parents who have used their speech therapy services also report that the therapists are patient and knowledgeable, leading to significant improvements in their children’s speech.
For children who find it hard to express their feelings, art therapy offers a valuable outlet. The creative process allows them to explore and share complex emotions safely.
Schools also appreciate working with the psychologists at Kidz Therapy. Numerous educators we interviewed said their assessments and interventions are crucial.
Of course, some parents noted that the fees are relatively high, which can be an obstacle, especially for families without comprehensive insurance.
Pros
- Helps with anxiety
- Helps with school performance
- Effective speech therapy
- Art therapy is available
Cons
- High fees
- Inefficient handling of billing issues
Customer Reviews
Have been supportive and knowledgeable every step of the way
“Kidz Therapy has been a valuable resource for our family as we responded to our child’s learning needs. His Educational Assessment was given in a professional and age appropriate manner. We have been fortunate enough to work with a Speech Language Therapist at Kidz Therapy to work through the recommendations provided by the assessment. Marie and all her colleagues that we have worked alongside have been supportive and knowledgeable every step of the way. I would highly recommend Kidz Therapy to anyone looking to support their children in any aspect of their learning.
– Lucy Jordan Google Review
Extremely professional and knowledgeable
“Kidz Therapy is a wonderful organisation, extremely professional and knowledgeable. They have provided our school with professional learning around anxiety in children, to staff, as well as to our parent community. Marie has an extensive history in both public practice (Ministry of Education) and private practice, and has provided advice and practical assistance many times. I thoroughly recommend Kidz Therapy.”
– Sara Baker Google Review
5. Find Yourself Psychology
Address: 100 Saint Heliers Bay Road, St Heliers, Auckland 1071, New Zealand
Contact Details: +64220280349
Operating Hours:
- Monday & Tuesday – 9 AM to 7 PM
- Wednesday to Friday – 9 AM to 2:30 PM
Find Yourself Psychology is for anyone looking to discover their unique strengths and feel more empowered. The founder, Sabine Melese, has expertise in CBT, REBT, DBT, and ACT. Plus, she holds a Master’s degree in psychology and has over 25 years of experience.
People appreciate Sabine’s range of services. She offers both short-term and long-term psychotherapy for individuals and couples.
Her specialisations cover a lot of ground, including depression, stress management, and OCD. She also helps with chronic pain, eating disorders, and substance abuse.
Many of her clients love the personalised care Sabine provides. Her holistic approach values cultural differences and personal experiences. This makes each therapy session unique and effective.
However, some clients did mention a small issue. Sabine can be hard to reach at times. You might need to call a few times to get through.
Pros
- Extensive experience
- Short and long-term therapy
- Personalised and holistic care
Cons
- Difficult to reach
Customer Reviews
She listened to everything I had to say without judgement
“Sabine has been amazing! She listened to everything I had to say without judgement and gave me the tools to help myself. She does not sugar coat anything but is still very kind and compassionate. I gained a lot from just listening to her and am truly grateful to her for helping me move on in a far more positive and joyful way. Contacting her was the best thing I have done for myself.
“
– Keery Goole Review
Thanks to her, I have become more attentive to my thoughts
“Out of all psychologists (7) I have worked with, Sabine was the perfect match for me. After every hour session I felt curious to learn more about what she taught me. I appreciate that she was straightforward with me, not trying to soften things – it’s one of the things that I needed, and what my other psychologists lacked. Sabine is very empathic, she easily understood my issues. She taught me a few tools to help me go through my struggles. Thanks to her, I have become more attentive to my thoughts and body. At the end of my work with Sabine it happened that I had to urgently separate from my abusive partner, but I felt absolutely fine. I think it’s because Sabine helped me to improve my self-confidence and mindfulness. I feel much happier now. I highly recommend Sabine”
– Natalia P Goole Review .
