Meet Vanessa
Kia ora! I'm Vanessa , a DAPAANZ registered practitioner based in Christchurch, New Zealand. I'm deeply passionate about helping people navigate life’s challenges with compassion, honesty, and hope. My work is grounded in a belief that healing happens through authentic connection, with ourselves, with others, and with our wider communities.
What truly sparks me is witnessing people reclaim their sense of self after hardship. I’m drawn to the quiet strength in those moments of insight, growth, and resilience, whether that’s someone processing grief, rebuilding after trauma, or simply learning how to be kinder to themselves. Holding space for those journeys is a privilege I never take lightly.
Why I am a therapist
I became a therapist because I believe in the power of human resilience and the importance of safe, non-judgmental spaces. I’ve seen, personally and professionally, how deeply people can heal when they’re met with empathy rather than judgment. This work is not just what I do, it’s part of who I am. Creating safe, culturally respectful spaces where people can reconnect with themselves and build resilience is at the heart of why I do what I do.
I draw on evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and trauma-informed approaches, always tailored to the unique needs of each person, I’m here to walk alongside you, at your pace.
I speak English and I’m committed to culturally respectful practice that honours the diverse backgrounds of the people I support, including upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and weaving Te Ao Māori principles into my work where appropriate.
Let me know if you have questions or how I can help:
My career so far
My career has spanned over 12 years across the mental health and addiction sectors, including frontline work, prison programmes, and wellbeing support. I use a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach that’s tailored to the unique needs of each person or whānau I work with.
My qualifications
Professional Association:
DAPAANZ
Education and Qualifications:
Postgraduate Certificate in Health Sciences (Alcohol and Drug Studies) - University of Auckland (2020)
Graduate Diploma in Theory of Addictions - Wellington Institute of Technology (2013)
Bachelor of Arts (Psychology and Anthropology)
Modalities:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Whanau and Individual support
Areas of expertise
AOD
Mental health
Group work
Whanau support
Grief
Wellbeing
Goal setting
Relapse prevention planning
Availability for appointments
✓ In-person / Online / Virtual / Telephone
Office location
Virtual or in person sessions at:
306 Port Hills Road, Christchurch
Please contact me to confirm in-person availability
Operating days/hours
Monday, Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday: from 9am
Wednesday: 9am to 11am
Thursday and Friday: 6pm to 9pm
Language(s) spoken
English
