Monique Hiskens

Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist

Currently available to take on new clients – October 2024

Therapeutic Approach

Relational child psychotherapy is a bespoke process, informed by psychoanalytic and psychodynamic theories. By utilising a range of specific play materials, the child is encouraged to gradually express parts of their inner self and develop a therapeutic relationship both verbally and non-verbally. Within this relationship, connections can be made between the therapist and the child’s whānau to better understand the nature of their conflicts and difficulties. 

Child psychotherapy can be effective for a range of presenting challenges, including anxiety, low mood, self-harm, suicidal ideation, anger, friendship difficulties, loneliness, grief, somatic complaints, disordered eating, those questioning their gender or sexuality, adjustment difficulties, separations, attachment issues and trauma. This work is suitable for children aged 5 – 18 years however dyadic work with children younger than 5 may be possible with consistent participation from a parent or caregiver. 

Monique has worked within the mental health field for the past ten years in inpatient, outpatient, NGO and private settings, offering her a range of experience to draw from, including working with high risk populations. Monique is trained to deliver psychodynamic psychotherapy with a systemic family therapy lens. She is also trained in eating disorders treatments including Family Based Treatment (FBT) and Adolescent Focussed Therapy (AFT).

Monique feels passionate about assisting children and their families to navigate their struggles in a way that works for them, with a focus on building understanding, emphasising internal resources and strengthening connections.

Monique is based in Auckland, practicing within a playroom space in Herne Bay suitable for children, adolescents, young adults and their families. ​​

Ko Horouta te waka 
Ko Moehau te maunga 
Ko Harataunga te awa 
Ko Tīkapa te moana 
Ko Rākairoa te marae
Ko Ngati Porou ki Harataunga ki Mataora te iwi
No Tāmaki Makaurau ahau 

FAQs

Q Registrations and Memberships

Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist registered through PBANZ, NZACAP & IMHAANZ

Q Qualifications

- Master of Psychotherapy (Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy)
- Graduate Diploma in Health Science (Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy Specialism)
- Bachelor of Health Science (Applied Mental Health)

Q Fees

FEES
Fees will be invoiced monthly and must be paid in full to continue the therapy. If weekly/biweekly is preferred this can be discussed on a case by case basis.

INITIAL PHONE OR EMAIL CONSULTATION
Free of charge to discuss whether or not child psychotherapy may be appropriate for your whānau
15 MINS | FREE

INITIAL FAMILY MEETING
Initially meeting with parents, caregivers and whānau allows for a discussion about the current difficulties, a gathering of developmental history and sharing of information about the therapeutic commitment.

Questions, queries and concerns are welcomed into a non-judgemental space.
80 MINS | $225

CHILD THERAPY SESSIONS
These sessions involve play therapy with myself and the child on a weekly basis. Recommendations can be given following the assessment period about the indicated length of treatment time.
50 MINS | $150

FAMILY FEEDBACK SESSIONS
These sessions are usually conducted every 4-6 weeks and are essential to the work. At this time, we will discuss therapeutic progress and identify ongoing areas of consideration.
50 MINS | $150

Q Confidentiality

All information is kept strictly confidential as per ethical codes. For clients under age 16, pertinent information about the child's progress in therapy will be shared with their parents or caregivers. The content of the child's sessions will, however, remain confidential. The limits of confidentiality can be discussed in more depth at the outset of the work, as this can depend on a range of factors including the child's age, competency and risk.

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