Jessica Andrews-Smith

Life can be challenging at times, and sometimes our problems can seem overwhelming. As a psychologist I offer a warm, genuine and non-judgmental approach, to help you make sense of your difficulties. I work with adults and young people experiencing a variety of life and mental health challenges. I use a collaborative and compassionate approach to therapy, guided by evidence-based treatments.

Areas of Special Interest

• Low mood/depression
• Anxiety (including OCD, social anxiety, panic  and health anxiety)
• Stress management & burnout
• Managing significant life transitions, loss and change
• Relationship challenges
• Low self-esteem and self-confidence
• Coping with chronic health issues

Counselling/Therapy Services

As a therapist Jessica provides a warm, relaxed and genuine approach, and she believes that the therapeutic relationship is essential to a good outcome. Jessica’s goal is to support you in developing effective ways of coping, while exploring and addressing underlying issues that may be contributing to your current life struggles, emotional distress or interpersonal problems.

The initial meeting is generally 70 minutes long, and involves getting to know you, and your life experience and needs, in order to identify specific therapy goals that you would like support with. While also drawing from your unique strengths and values, her aim is to help you move towards a happier, and more fulfilling life.

Jessica provides psychological support for individuals, 18 years and older, with difficulties ranging from everyday problems – to mild to moderate mental health problems. She is available for both short and long term therapy.

Counselling/Therapy Approach

Her focus in treatment is client centred and collaborative – to help each individual to reach new understandings and possibilities within themselves and in their lives, while helping to enhance personal strengths, and build confidence to overcome barriers to happiness. Jessica uses concepts from a variety of evidence-based therapies including CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), Compassion Focused Therapy and different mindfulness processes depending on the individuals need.

Background and Experience

Jessica is a registered psychologist in the Auckland region. She has worked in the public health sector in both inpatient and outpatient settings in the DHB. Including working with individuals from a variety of different cultural backgrounds and ages, from young adults to older adults, with a variety of different physical health and mental health conditions. Alongside her private practice, she also works in a busy Auckland clinic which specialises in Anxiety disorders and Depression.