Barbara Pike

Counselling Psychology Services

I am a Counselling Psychologist offering a collaborative, strengths-based approach to therapy.  I work alongside you to help you to navigate challenging times, with the aim of supporting you to develop a more balanced, meaningful and fulfilling way of living.

I provide a warm, reflective and practical space to support you to better understand your emotions, thoughts and patterns of behaviour.  Together, we will focus on identifying and building strengths, while also developing new skills and strategies to help you work through the difficulties you are facing.

Areas I can help with

I work with adults experiencing a wide range of concerns, including:

• Anxiety-related difficulties (including panic, OCD, phobias and excessive worry)
• Depression and low mood
• Addiction and substance use concerns
• Trauma and abuse (including PTSD)
• Relationship and communication difficulties
• Stress and burn-out
• Everyday life challenges and adjustment difficulties
• Building self-esteem and confidence

Therapy Approach

While facing personal struggles is never easy, these experiences can also offer valuable opportunities for growth and self-understanding.  Therapy can help you to develop insight, emotional awareness, and practical skills to work through painful or challenging experiences, and to move forward in ways that align with what matters to you most.  

I am primarily trained in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).  In addition to my core training as a psychologist, I have also completed an additional two-year specialist postgraduate qualification in CBT.  I draw on these evidence-based approaches flexibly, tailoring therapy to suit your individual needs, values, strengths and goals.

My approach is collaborative and respectful, and I place importance on creating a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship as the foundation of our work together.

Background and Experience

I have over 10 years’ experience working with adults in a Health NZ | Te Whatu Ora specialist mental health and addictions service, as well as in private practice.  I have worked with individuals experiencing anxiety disorders, depression, trauma-related difficulties and substance use concerns.

In addition, I also support clients with common life challenges, such relationship and communication difficulties, stress, work-life balance and self-esteem.

Supervision

I offer professional supervision for psychologists, dapaanz registered addictions practitioners and other registered health professionals.  In supervision, my aim is to provide a reflective and supportive space that helps you build confidence, deepen your skills and enhance your knowledge in working effectively with your clients.