Claire Heathcote

Hi I’m Claire,

Throughout my psychology career, I have collaborated with children, teenagers and adults to move through difficult experiences. I believe that each client and situation is unique and through the provision of a supportive space, clients can safely explore their experiences without fear of judgement. It is in this safe environment that the possibility to overcome ones’ issues may be sought.

Getting out of ‘being stuck’ or ‘held back’ by ourselves/our minds or even our behaviour is often really hard on our own. Talking therapy has been shown to help people move forward and reap the rewards of a change in mindset and behaviours. Imagine living with less mental struggles, improved relationships and a life that may be aligned with what you think is important.

I am a Registered Psychologist with the New Zealand Psychologist Board working in Private Practice online and in the Christchurch area.

As a psychologist, I am trained to support and collaborate with you to work towards the outcomes you would like to achieve. I work flexibly, in a partnership role assuming a non-judgmental stance where I can offer a space for safety. As no two clients are the same, it is important that I apply appropriate knowledge specific to your situation in order to best assist you. This is based on current relevant empirically based assessment, planning and interventions.  I am also held responsible according to the New Zealand Psychologist’s Board’s core competencies and the New Zealand Code of Ethics.

Background & experience:

I have experience working with children, teenagers and adults with a variety of issues in a range of settings, such as hospitals, non-for-profit organisations, children’s homes and in private practice. I have also run my own mother-baby/toddler sensory stimulation classes and I am a mother of two children.  As a South African, I also have first-hand knowledge about the immigration experience.

Some of the issues I have helped clients address include:

• Anxiety
• Depression and low mood
• Self-harm
• Grief and loss
• Stress
• Trauma
• Anger problems
• Relationship difficulties
• Workplace issues

These are umbrella terms which are most often presented in a variety of ways. Should you have any question about whether I could help you address a specific problem you are facing; please email me. If I am not suitable to assist you, I may be able to refer you on to another professional who may best suit you.

Approaches and trainings:

• ACT therapy
• Gestalt therapy
• Narrative therapy
• Trauma counselling
• Play therapy
• Sand tray therapy