Dr Bahrie Veliu

Clinical Psychologist

Our relationships—with ourselves and others—shape the way we experience life.

At our core, we are wired for connection, growth, and meaning, yet life’s complexities often leave us feeling disconnected, uncertain, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve us. My work is about helping individuals, couples, and families bridge the gap between who they were, who they are, and who they are striving to become. 

For over a decade, I have worked at the intersection of clinical psychology, trauma healing, attachment science, neuroscience, and coaching,  guiding people through self-discovery, emotional regulation, and deeper connections. Whether exploring the impact of past experiences, the challenges of neurodivergence, or the intricacies of intimacy and identity, my approach is both science-backed and deeply personal.

At the heart of my work is a commitment to helping individuals cultivate self-compassion, awareness, and confidence while embracing their authentic selves. By blending therapeutic techniques with coaching strategies, I support clients in not only healing from the past but also taking meaningful action toward creating a connected, fulfilling, and purpose-driven life.

 

Areas of Special Interest

Trauma & Nervous System Dysregulation

  • Complex PTSD & Developmental Trauma
  • Emotional Dysregulation & Mood Instability
  • Dissociation & Feeling Disconnected from Self
  • Chronic Stress & Burnout
  • Hypervigilance & Trauma-Induced Anxiety
  • Somatic Symptoms & Psychosomatic Pain

Attachment & Relationship Issues

  • Fear of Abandonment, Fear of Losing Autonomy,  Difficulty with trust, forming and maintaining intimate relationships.
  • Boundary Struggles & Unhealthy Relationship Patterns
  • Narcissistic Abuse Recovery (Parental, Romantic, Workplace & Social)
  • Breakups, Divorce & Relationship Transitions
  • Loneliness & Social Disconnection
  • Family Conflict & Relational Trauma

Emotional & Cognitive Challenges

  • Anxiety Disorders (Generalized Anxiety, Panic, Social Anxiety)
  • Depression & Persistent Low Mood
  • ADHD, Autism & Emotional Regulation Struggles
  • Rigid Thinking & Cognitive Inflexibility
  • Overthinking, Perfectionism & Self-Criticism
  • Difficulty Making Decisions & Fear of Failure
  • Obsessive Thinking & Compulsive Behaviour
  • Self-Esteem & Identity Struggles
  • Career Burnout & Work-Life Imbalance
  • Procrastination & Self-Sabotaging Patterns

 

Individual Therapy

I provide tailored therapy to support individuals in overcoming challenges, improving emotional regulation, and fostering meaningful personal growth. My approach integrates evidence-based methods to facilitate deep and lasting change.

Therapeutic Modalities Included

  • EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): A gold-standard treatment for trauma, PTSD, grief, and relational difficulties.
  • DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy): Skills-based therapy for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.
  • ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy): A values-based approach to psychological flexibility and personal growth.
  • CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and Schema Therapy : Identifying and transforming unhelpful thought patterns. beliefs and behaviours.
  • Neuroscience-Informed Therapy: My approach to therapy is informed by the latest evidence in neuroscience and in depth knowledge of brain functioning and the principles of neuroplasticity.

 

Couples Therapy

I help couples transform their relational dynamics, strengthen emotional bonds, and build secure-functioning relationships. My approach is informed by neuroscience, attachment theory, and relationship research, drawing from:

  • Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy (PACT): A neurobiological model focusing on nervous system regulation in relationships.
  • Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT): Strengthening emotional connections and reshaping negative interaction patterns.
  • The Gottman Method: Evidence-based strategies for improving communication, trust, and intimacy.

 

Family Court Specialist Assessments & Therapy

With over six years of experience as a specialist report writer and expert witness in Family Court, I specialize in psychological assessments and therapy for families navigating complex legal and relational challenges. My work focuses on addressing the emotional, psychological, and relational impacts of family separation, high-conflict disputes, and parental dynamics.

I provide expert support for:

  • High-Conflict Parenting Disputes
  • Co-Parenting Challenges & Parallel Parenting Strategies
  • Trauma-Informed Therapy for Children Experiencing Family Conflict
  • Parent-Child Bonding & Attachment Therapy
  • Parent-Child Contact Issues (Estrangement, Alienation, Resistance)
  • Children’s Emotional & Behavioural Responses to Family Breakdown

My approach integrates trauma-informed care, attachment-based interventions, and child-focused strategies to support family relationships, reduce conflict, and promote long-term emotional well-being.

Background and Experience

With over 12 years of post-doctorate experience, I have worked across adult community mental health, private practice, and international settings.

Before moving to New Zealand, I spent five years as a trauma therapist working with UN agencies and international humanitarian organizations in Kosovo and Indonesia. In these roles, I provided psychosocial support to individuals and communities affected by war, displacement, and human trafficking, collaborating with international teams to deliver high-quality mental health interventions.

In addition, I have specialized experience in Family Court Specialist Assessments & Therapy, providing expert psychological evaluations and therapy for families navigating divorce, co-parenting disputes, and relational trauma.

Supervision Services

I am trained in clinical group supervision and have completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Systemic Group Supervision at Basel University, Switzerland. I offer specialist supervision services for mental health professionals, with a focus on:

  • Supporting Clinicians in High-Stress Environments
  • Case Conceptualization & Therapeutic Formulation
  • Trauma-Informed Practice & Neuroscience Integration
  • Burnout Prevention & Practitioner Well-being

FAQs

Q Registrations and Memberships

- Registered Clinical Psychologist
- Member of NZ Psychological Society (MNZPsS_
- Member of NZ EMDR Association
- Member of Global Association for Interpersonal Neurobiology Studies
- Member of Association of Family and Conciliation Courts

Q Qualifications

- Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (Massey University)
- Bachelor of Science (First Class Honours in Psychology, Victoria University)

Q Appointments

My working hours are 8.30 to 5.30 everyday

Q Fees

- Individual Session 60 min session- $230 (GST inclusive)
- Payment can be made by Internet banking, Eftpos, cash.
- Family Therapy Session 90 min $330




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