Johann van den Berg

Safe, caring, experienced counselling to help you make positive changes in your world.

Areas of Special Interest

• Grief & loss
• Self-esteem/identity
• Anxiety
• Stress
• Anger
• Depression
• Addiction (substances, obsessions)
• Sexual issues
• Relationship issues
• Cultural issues
• Migration stress/integration

Counselling Services

I often say to clients that coming to a counselling session is like carrying in a heavy backpack that can be safely unpacked and re-packed in a way that makes it lighter to carry.

Talking with a professional counsellor may help you understand and manage feelings, thoughts, and issues in your life. It is done in a safe and confidential relationship with another person.

When considering whether to start counselling or not, you may be experiencing issues in a variety of different areas of your life. These may include: your physical world (for example sleep, body image, exercise, sexuality amongst other); your social world (the way you relate to those close to you); your thoughts and feelings (how these may be overwhelming or uncontrollable); and your sense of how you connect or not, to the broader world or universe (this may be as simple as listening to music, walking in nature, meditating or spiritual expression).

Counselling Approach

I am professionally trained in Person-centred therapy, Psychodynamics, Mindfulness, ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), Existential Therapy and TA (Transactional Analysis). Compassion is core to my work, and how we make meaning in our lives despite the challenges it presents to us.

Background and Experience

I was born and lived in Africa until moving to New Zealand sixteen years ago. I am an experienced counsellor and in addition to my private practice, have worked at one of New Zealand’s leading universities as a counsellor. I utilise a person-centred, psychodynamic and eclectic approach in counselling, embracing mindfulness and respect for the inherent strength within the individual.

I have worked with people from many cultures around the world and have amongst other things, a keen interest in cultural difference and marginalization. I am aware of complex issues that surround us and sometimes stop us from reaching our potential in whatever form that may be.

Supervision Services

I provide clinical supervision to Provisional and Full Members of the NZAC.