Autism Therapists in Tauranga

Photo of Dr. Sarah Miers, Psychologist
Dr. Sarah Miers
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Tauranga 3112
My specialist areas of practice include: maternal and perinatal mental health; women’s mental health; intrusive distressing thoughts and OCD; autism, ADHD, and neurodivergence; personal identity; mood and anxiety; life transitions; and skills for regulating emotion and tolerating distress.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board and a full member of the New Zealand Psychological Society. I specialise in supporting young people and adults experiencing difficulties to grow in understanding of themselves and improve their daily functioning. I enjoy helping people foster self-compassion and gain skills to draw on in challenging times to move closer to the life they want for themselves.
My specialist areas of practice include: maternal and perinatal mental health; women’s mental health; intrusive distressing thoughts and OCD; autism, ADHD, and neurodivergence; personal identity; mood and anxiety; life transitions; and skills for regulating emotion and tolerating distress.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board and a full member of the New Zealand Psychological Society. I specialise in supporting young people and adults experiencing difficulties to grow in understanding of themselves and improve their daily functioning. I enjoy helping people foster self-compassion and gain skills to draw on in challenging times to move closer to the life they want for themselves.
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Photo of Serafin Upton, Counsellor
Serafin Upton
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Tauranga 3110
Serafin Upton - Love and relationship science, no sweeteners, plenty of moxie. Providing specialist relationship therapy for individuals, couples, and families. Qualified sex and relationship therapist - Infidelity and Betrayal - Queer Relationships / Relationship Anarchy/ Polyamory/ Open Relationships/ Kink - Neurodiversity - Autism - ADHD / Sex Addiction / Pornography / Intergenerational trauma.
Serafin Upton - Love and relationship science, no sweeteners, plenty of moxie. Providing specialist relationship therapy for individuals, couples, and families. Qualified sex and relationship therapist - Infidelity and Betrayal - Queer Relationships / Relationship Anarchy/ Polyamory/ Open Relationships/ Kink - Neurodiversity - Autism - ADHD / Sex Addiction / Pornography / Intergenerational trauma.
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Photo of Ale Held, Psychologist
Ale Held
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Tauranga 3110  (Online Only)
Alexandra (Ale) Held is an NZ-trained and registered psychologist and a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA). She is experienced in working with a variety of challenging behaviours across adults, adolescents, and children in a range of settings, providing a high level of behavioural assessments and interventions. She is experienced in implementing intensive Behaviour Support Services, based on the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis. She works from a non-aversive framework to increase positive behaviour, increase positive interactions, develop skills, and decrease the occurrence of challenging behaviours.
Alexandra (Ale) Held is an NZ-trained and registered psychologist and a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA). She is experienced in working with a variety of challenging behaviours across adults, adolescents, and children in a range of settings, providing a high level of behavioural assessments and interventions. She is experienced in implementing intensive Behaviour Support Services, based on the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis. She works from a non-aversive framework to increase positive behaviour, increase positive interactions, develop skills, and decrease the occurrence of challenging behaviours.
0800 327 477 View 0800 327 477
Photo of Grace Irvine, MNZAC, Counsellor
Grace Irvine
Counsellor, MNZAC
Verified Verified
Tauranga 3110  (Online Only)
I work with all ages and specialise working with teens and young adults who are struggling. Challenges can come from anywhere; the loss of a loved one, a health condition, problems at school or work, anxiety, trauma, bullying, depression, attacks on dignity, abuse, or being spoken to in unhelpful ways. Problems can get you feeling overwhelmed, hopeless and stuck. I invite you to let me journey with you from that stuck place to hope and peace.
I work with all ages and specialise working with teens and young adults who are struggling. Challenges can come from anywhere; the loss of a loved one, a health condition, problems at school or work, anxiety, trauma, bullying, depression, attacks on dignity, abuse, or being spoken to in unhelpful ways. Problems can get you feeling overwhelmed, hopeless and stuck. I invite you to let me journey with you from that stuck place to hope and peace.
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Photo of Sol Marques, MPsych, Psychologist
Sol Marques
Psychologist, MPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tauranga 3110
Kia ora koutou katoa. My name is Sol, I am originally from Argentina, where I earned my degree in Clinical Psychology. I ventured to New Zealand in early 2020 and became a registered Clinical Psychologist with the New Zealand Psychologists Board. Bringing over a decade of experience, my practice is deeply rooted in a trauma-informed perspective, acknowledging the profound impact of past experiences on mental health. With a passion for assisting individuals on their mental health journeys, I am eager to collaborate with you as you navigate your path towards well-being. I am providing sessions in English and Spanish.
Kia ora koutou katoa. My name is Sol, I am originally from Argentina, where I earned my degree in Clinical Psychology. I ventured to New Zealand in early 2020 and became a registered Clinical Psychologist with the New Zealand Psychologists Board. Bringing over a decade of experience, my practice is deeply rooted in a trauma-informed perspective, acknowledging the profound impact of past experiences on mental health. With a passion for assisting individuals on their mental health journeys, I am eager to collaborate with you as you navigate your path towards well-being. I am providing sessions in English and Spanish.
0800 468 212 x71 View 0800 468 212 x71
Photo of Sofia Antonella Scozzafava, NZAC - Provisional, Counsellor
Sofia Antonella Scozzafava
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
Tauranga 3110
Kia Ora katou. My name is Sofia, from Argentina but calling New Zealand my home for the past five years. With a background in handling high-complex trauma, grief, sexual violence, domestic abuse, children and adolescent mental health, and family dynamics. My professional journey encompasses a holistic approach, integrating various modalities such as Theraplay Institute's foundational certification, Gottman's Couple Therapy Level 1, TFCBT Level 1, along with mindfulness, IFS, transgenerational trauma, and narrative therapy.
Kia Ora katou. My name is Sofia, from Argentina but calling New Zealand my home for the past five years. With a background in handling high-complex trauma, grief, sexual violence, domestic abuse, children and adolescent mental health, and family dynamics. My professional journey encompasses a holistic approach, integrating various modalities such as Theraplay Institute's foundational certification, Gottman's Couple Therapy Level 1, TFCBT Level 1, along with mindfulness, IFS, transgenerational trauma, and narrative therapy.
0800 468 212 x64 View 0800 468 212 x64
Photo of Nadia Marié Louw, PsychD, Psychologist
Nadia Marié Louw
Psychologist, PsychD
Verified Verified
Tauranga 3110
I am a warm and friendly therapist, who loves helping both adolescents and their parents to navigate the stresses and changes of the teenage years. I can support adolescents with anxiety symptoms, low mood, academic difficulties, low self-esteem, trauma, grief, divorce or any other areas where they may feel stuck. My goals include helping adolescents to reach their full potential, as well as well as increasing their self-belief and overall wellbeing. As I am an Educational Psychologist, I work only with mild to moderate difficulties and will refer clients to the correct professional, in the case of severe- or crisis presentation.
I am a warm and friendly therapist, who loves helping both adolescents and their parents to navigate the stresses and changes of the teenage years. I can support adolescents with anxiety symptoms, low mood, academic difficulties, low self-esteem, trauma, grief, divorce or any other areas where they may feel stuck. My goals include helping adolescents to reach their full potential, as well as well as increasing their self-belief and overall wellbeing. As I am an Educational Psychologist, I work only with mild to moderate difficulties and will refer clients to the correct professional, in the case of severe- or crisis presentation.
0800 451 540 x42 View 0800 451 540 x42
Photo of Kate Ferris, MPsych, Psychologist
Kate Ferris
Psychologist, MPsych
Verified Verified
Tauranga 3110
Tēnā koe, I am a registered psychologist passionate about partnering with individuals, couples and families across the lifespan to enhance their wellbeing and to find sustainable solutions to a wide range of concerns. My practice is collaborative, empathetic, and evidence-based. I am also a trained mediator and am especially interested in supporting couples in conflict and families in transition (during and after separation).
Tēnā koe, I am a registered psychologist passionate about partnering with individuals, couples and families across the lifespan to enhance their wellbeing and to find sustainable solutions to a wide range of concerns. My practice is collaborative, empathetic, and evidence-based. I am also a trained mediator and am especially interested in supporting couples in conflict and families in transition (during and after separation).
0800 627 050 x51 View 0800 627 050 x51
Photo of Heather Cohen - Aroha Counselling Services, MSc, NZCCA, Counsellor
Aroha Counselling Services
Counsellor, MSc, NZCCA
Verified Verified
Tauranga 3110
I have emotionally supported hundreds of children through difficult moments for many years. Having studied in the USA, UK and NZ and worked with the children of the Christchurch Earthquakes for several years, I have been privileged to learn from and work with some very inspiring and resilient people. This knowledge was used to volunteer as crisis responder and as an in-person Youthline counsellor amongst other roles. Recently, I was employed as a Child and Adolescent Counsellor serving 13 South Otago area primary and intermediate schools. I now operate my own Private Practice in a beautiful and healing setting in Whakamarama.
I have emotionally supported hundreds of children through difficult moments for many years. Having studied in the USA, UK and NZ and worked with the children of the Christchurch Earthquakes for several years, I have been privileged to learn from and work with some very inspiring and resilient people. This knowledge was used to volunteer as crisis responder and as an in-person Youthline counsellor amongst other roles. Recently, I was employed as a Child and Adolescent Counsellor serving 13 South Otago area primary and intermediate schools. I now operate my own Private Practice in a beautiful and healing setting in Whakamarama.
0800 627 003 x25 View 0800 627 003 x25
Photo of Anna Redgrave - Beehyve Health, MA, MNZAC, Counsellor
Beehyve Health
Counsellor, MA, MNZAC
Verified Verified
Tauranga 3110  (Online Only)
Beehyve is a buzzing hub of practitioners and services that offer support to help people thrive. Our focus is a safe and inclusive place where clients find understanding, empathy and empowerment. We launched Beehyve to meet a demand for support that truly understands the specific needs of adult ADHD and can serve a broad range of those working on their wellbeing. Although our individual focus areas are wide and varied, we all share a non-judgmental understanding of ADHD; that's at the heart of our work.
Beehyve is a buzzing hub of practitioners and services that offer support to help people thrive. Our focus is a safe and inclusive place where clients find understanding, empathy and empowerment. We launched Beehyve to meet a demand for support that truly understands the specific needs of adult ADHD and can serve a broad range of those working on their wellbeing. Although our individual focus areas are wide and varied, we all share a non-judgmental understanding of ADHD; that's at the heart of our work.
0800 627 004 x31 View 0800 627 004 x31
Photo of Dan Goodkind, PhD, MNZCCP , Psychologist
Dan Goodkind
Psychologist, PhD, MNZCCP
Verified Verified
Tauranga 3110
Hi, I am a registered clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist living and practicing in Nelson, New Zealand. My primary focus is providing psychotherapy. Psychotherapy involves the careful application of techniques that help people change their behaviors, thoughts, feelings, and other personal characteristics in ways that enable them to thrive and cope with the stresses of living. I prefer to work with clients in person but if meeting in person is impossible or impractical, I can provide services online.
Hi, I am a registered clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist living and practicing in Nelson, New Zealand. My primary focus is providing psychotherapy. Psychotherapy involves the careful application of techniques that help people change their behaviors, thoughts, feelings, and other personal characteristics in ways that enable them to thrive and cope with the stresses of living. I prefer to work with clients in person but if meeting in person is impossible or impractical, I can provide services online.
0800 627 024 x44 View 0800 627 024 x44
Photo of Aleksandra Gosteva, Psychologist
Aleksandra Gosteva
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Tauranga 3110  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Alex is a New Zealand fully trained, Registered Occupational Health Psychologist. With her breadth of extensive training, research and internships, she has developed special interests in different areas of psychology. Alex's extensive training and experience allowed me to develop a commitment to excellence and appreciation of the vulnerability, diversity, and presentation of people. For her clients, her main assets are my approachable demeanour, emphasis on wellbeing, and straightforward appraisal of their unique needs and situation.
Alex is a New Zealand fully trained, Registered Occupational Health Psychologist. With her breadth of extensive training, research and internships, she has developed special interests in different areas of psychology. Alex's extensive training and experience allowed me to develop a commitment to excellence and appreciation of the vulnerability, diversity, and presentation of people. For her clients, her main assets are my approachable demeanour, emphasis on wellbeing, and straightforward appraisal of their unique needs and situation.
0800 327 477 View 0800 327 477

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Monique Potgieter - Play Therapy Centre (Monique Potgieter), MA
Play Therapy Centre (Monique Potgieter)
MA
Verified Verified
Papamoa 3118
I am a Registered mental health Social Worker who specializes in Play Therapy. I am a member of the Social Work Registration Board (NZ) and the Association for Play Therapy (US). My focus is supporting children and youth who are experiencing behavioural or social difficulties including anxiety, emotional dysregulation, anger/aggression, neurodiversity, trauma, loss and grief, and selective mutism. I also focus on supporting neurodiverse children to build social and emotional skills, who do not necessarily have mental health difficulties
I am a Registered mental health Social Worker who specializes in Play Therapy. I am a member of the Social Work Registration Board (NZ) and the Association for Play Therapy (US). My focus is supporting children and youth who are experiencing behavioural or social difficulties including anxiety, emotional dysregulation, anger/aggression, neurodiversity, trauma, loss and grief, and selective mutism. I also focus on supporting neurodiverse children to build social and emotional skills, who do not necessarily have mental health difficulties
0800 468 212 x59 View 0800 468 212 x59
Nem Psychology and Consulting Ltd
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Papamoa 3118
I am a Clinical Psychologist (ACC registered) with experience in mental health and forensic settings. I assess and treat adolescents and adults experiencing a broad range of mental health conditions, health related issues, past or recent trauma, grief and bereavement and adjustment difficulties. I work with individuals, couples and families, providing therapy based on a treatment plan developed collaboratively with the client. I have extensive experience in forensic work including assessment and individual therapy with individuals within the criminal justice system.
I am a Clinical Psychologist (ACC registered) with experience in mental health and forensic settings. I assess and treat adolescents and adults experiencing a broad range of mental health conditions, health related issues, past or recent trauma, grief and bereavement and adjustment difficulties. I work with individuals, couples and families, providing therapy based on a treatment plan developed collaboratively with the client. I have extensive experience in forensic work including assessment and individual therapy with individuals within the criminal justice system.
0800 451 520 x12 View 0800 451 520 x12

Online Therapists

Photo of Olivia Sampson, NZCCA, Counsellor
Olivia Sampson
Counsellor, NZCCA
Verified Verified
Auckland 1026
I use person-centred, narrative and solution focused therapies to help people explore their feelings and move into their preferred identities that will propel them to live a life filled with joy and hope. I teach useful strategies that can help with anxiety, regulating feelings, confidence and social skills, as well as helping people find the root cause of the problems they face. I have experience working with all ages, and especially love my work with children, adolescents and young people. I also have a special interest in neurodiversity, autism and ADHD.
I use person-centred, narrative and solution focused therapies to help people explore their feelings and move into their preferred identities that will propel them to live a life filled with joy and hope. I teach useful strategies that can help with anxiety, regulating feelings, confidence and social skills, as well as helping people find the root cause of the problems they face. I have experience working with all ages, and especially love my work with children, adolescents and young people. I also have a special interest in neurodiversity, autism and ADHD.
0800 447 359 x16 View 0800 447 359 x16
Photo of Nat Phillips | Bright Minds Counselling, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional, Counsellor
Nat Phillips | Bright Minds Counselling
Counsellor, MCouns, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Auckland 1052
I can support you to navigate a wide range of challenges, although I do specialise in: Self-compassion & self-esteem; LGBTQ+ affirming therapy; managing anxiety and panic attacks; body image / body acceptance; boundary setting and communication skills; self-discovery after autism diagnosis in adulthood.
Nau mai, haere mai Kia ora and welcome... My name is Nat, and I am an experienced counsellor working individually with adolescents and adults throughout Aotearoa. I offer both online and in-person counselling sessions for ages 13+.  My approach is person-centered and pluralistic – this means I’ll work collaboratively with you to set therapeutic goals that are meaningful to you personally. I’ll pull from a wide range of counselling theories and modalities and will tailor our sessions to ensure they’re as unique as you are. My aim is always to uplift and empower you as we co-navigate your journey to wellbeing.
I can support you to navigate a wide range of challenges, although I do specialise in: Self-compassion & self-esteem; LGBTQ+ affirming therapy; managing anxiety and panic attacks; body image / body acceptance; boundary setting and communication skills; self-discovery after autism diagnosis in adulthood.
Nau mai, haere mai Kia ora and welcome... My name is Nat, and I am an experienced counsellor working individually with adolescents and adults throughout Aotearoa. I offer both online and in-person counselling sessions for ages 13+.  My approach is person-centered and pluralistic – this means I’ll work collaboratively with you to set therapeutic goals that are meaningful to you personally. I’ll pull from a wide range of counselling theories and modalities and will tailor our sessions to ensure they’re as unique as you are. My aim is always to uplift and empower you as we co-navigate your journey to wellbeing.
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Photo of Mona Ghanbari, PhD, Psychologist
Mona Ghanbari
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Auckland 1052
I am an Autism and ADHD specialist.
I have expertise in conducting diagnostic assessments and providing therapy and treatment to children, adolescents, and adults who are dealing with various challenges. This includes conditions such as Autism Spectrum Condition (ASD/ASC), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Emotional Dysregulation, Depression, Burnout, and Anxiety Disorders. My offices are based in Parnell, Albany, and I offer online therapy and assessment.
I am an Autism and ADHD specialist.
I have expertise in conducting diagnostic assessments and providing therapy and treatment to children, adolescents, and adults who are dealing with various challenges. This includes conditions such as Autism Spectrum Condition (ASD/ASC), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Emotional Dysregulation, Depression, Burnout, and Anxiety Disorders. My offices are based in Parnell, Albany, and I offer online therapy and assessment.
0800 627 050 x81 View 0800 627 050 x81
Photo of Micaela Goldsmith - Action Potential Psychology - Micaela Goldsmith, Psychologist
Action Potential Psychology - Micaela Goldsmith
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Auckland 1071
Waitlist for new clients
I provide a safe, non judgemental space to explore areas of your life you are struggling with or challenges you are facing. We will work collaboratively to develop individualised practical coping strategies to create meaningful change and meet your therapy goals. I aim to ensure that the entire process is open and transparent from beginning to end and that you leave feeling confident you can continue the progress gained over the course of our sessions.
I provide a safe, non judgemental space to explore areas of your life you are struggling with or challenges you are facing. We will work collaboratively to develop individualised practical coping strategies to create meaningful change and meet your therapy goals. I aim to ensure that the entire process is open and transparent from beginning to end and that you leave feeling confident you can continue the progress gained over the course of our sessions.
0800 627 004 x42 View 0800 627 004 x42
Photo of Claire Brown, NZAC - Provisional, Counsellor
Claire Brown
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
Auckland 1071
I have experience of helping people work through many kinds of difficulties including; anxiety, depression, relationship issues, feelings of loneliness, low mood and stress. As a counsellor I have a warm, empathic approach and am committed to providing counselling in a safe, confidential and non-judgmental environment.
I have experience of helping people work through many kinds of difficulties including; anxiety, depression, relationship issues, feelings of loneliness, low mood and stress. As a counsellor I have a warm, empathic approach and am committed to providing counselling in a safe, confidential and non-judgmental environment.
0800 627 004 x52 View 0800 627 004 x52
Photo of Gorgan Ng - D4 Counselling, MCouns, MNZAC, Counsellor
D4 Counselling
Counsellor, MCouns, MNZAC
Verified Verified
Auckland 1052
My name is Gorgan Ng and I've been working with teenagers or young adults who identify as part of the geek culture or have an interest in gaming, anime, or superheroes. They may be struggling with issues such as wanting change in life, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, difficulty fitting in, or a sense of isolation. They need a safe and understanding space where they can freely express their interests and experiences without judgment. Their goal is to integrate the skills and insights they have gained from their geeky hobbies into their daily lives, improving their self-confidence, social connections, and overall well-being.
My name is Gorgan Ng and I've been working with teenagers or young adults who identify as part of the geek culture or have an interest in gaming, anime, or superheroes. They may be struggling with issues such as wanting change in life, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, difficulty fitting in, or a sense of isolation. They need a safe and understanding space where they can freely express their interests and experiences without judgment. Their goal is to integrate the skills and insights they have gained from their geeky hobbies into their daily lives, improving their self-confidence, social connections, and overall well-being.
0800 447 264 x87 View 0800 447 264 x87

See more therapy options for Tauranga

Autism Counsellors

What is the most effective treatment for autism?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.

How does ABA work?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.

How does treatment for autism work?

Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.

How long does therapy for autism take?

Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.



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