Lineé van der Meer

I am an Auckland-based clinical psychologist who offers in-person as well as online psychotherapy to women.

Therapy is a place where you get to listen to yourself and be listened to. My job as a therapist is to hold a supportive space for you where you are allowed to show up exactly as you are, and where all of you is welcome.

Who do I work with?

My clients are women who present with a wide range of issues and challenges. Often, life transitions and change – pregnancy, new motherhood, menopause, divorce/separation, immigration – are the impetus for seeking therapy. Other times it might be difficulties in relationships, depression/low mood, and anxiety.

I also offer therapy for women who may not have a particular problem but want a space to get to know themselves and the unique dynamics that make up their psychological landscape. These are often the seekers, those committed to their personal and spiritual growth and lifelong learning.

The question “Is this as good as it gets?” is one that many women grapple with at some point in their lives. Whether that question relates to their relationship, sex, work, career, parenting, or just life in general, it’s an important question and often the first step to making changes that could lead to a richer, more meaningful and fulfilling life. The therapy space is ideal for deep-diving into these kinds of existential questions and finding a resolution that can help you move forward.

How do I work?

My therapy approach is eclectic and determined by what will best suit my client and their unique needs. I draw mainly on psychodynamic, person-centred and CBT theory and techniques.

In addition, much of my work is informed by attachment theory, polyvagal theory and somatic psychology. For healing to happen, we must first feel safe in our bodies. My goal is to help clients to become more embodied and develop their ability to navigate their nervous systems. This puts them in a better, more empowered position to work with their wounds and challenges and ultimately supports them to live with more ease.

I view issues and challenges brought to therapy through a holistic lens and believe that body, mind and spirit are all equally important for optimal well-being.

I have a special interest in working with issues related to sex, pleasure and sexual self-concept. Sex is inextricably linked to our life force, and being able to identify our needs and desires and claim, acknowledge and honour them allows our sexual selves to thrive. This process often involves healing old wounds and letting go of beliefs and programming that no longer serve us.

Coming to therapy is a big step and takes courage. My aim is to support you to feel comfortable, safe and at ease as you embark on your therapy journey.

If you’re interested in working with me, I offer a free 15 – 30 min consultation via Zoom or phone. This will help us determine whether I am the right person for your needs and will also allow you to get a sense of me and whether you’d feel comfortable working with me.

My background and experience

I completed my training in South Africa in 2010, where I worked in a public psychiatric hospital and private practice, before moving to New Zealand in 2013. I have since worked at a sexual violence support agency and in private practice, and have also taken some time off in between to raise my kids.

I’m registered with the New Zealand Psychologist Board and a member of the New Zealand Psychological Society.