Sally Cousins

 
If you’re feeling stressed, stuck, or quietly dissatisfied with life — I offer a warm, confidential space to understand yourself more deeply and find a way forward.

How I Work 

The experiences we have in life leave their mark. They shape the way we see ourselves, what we expect from others, and how we show up in our closest relationships — often in ways we don’t consciously choose. 

In therapy, we gently explore what’s happening in your life right now and look at how the past might still be casting a shadow. I’ve found that when these patterns become visible, real change becomes possible — more satisfying relationships, greater ease, and a stronger sense of yourself. 

I work with both short and longer-term therapy, and I draw on a range of approaches depending on what feels right for you. My training is in psychodynamic psychotherapy, and I bring warmth, curiosity, and genuine care to every session. 

Couples Therapy 

One of the most unhelpful myths about relationships is that love should be easy — and that struggle means something has gone wrong. In my experience, conflict is often growth trying to happen.  

Many couples arrive feeling stuck, disconnected, or like they’re having the same argument on repeat. In our work together, we slow that down. I help couples understand the patterns beneath the surface — why certain moments escalate, what each person is actually longing for, and what gets in the way of genuine closeness.  

We work together to build new ways of understanding each other, communicating honestly, and navigating conflict in ways that bring you closer rather than push you apart. Most couples tell me they feel real relief and renewed hope within just a few sessions.

Areas of Special Interest 

Anxiety & depression · Relationships & intimacy · Grief & loss · Life transitions · Becoming a parent · Children leaving home · Menopause & ageing · Career change & redundancy · Divorce & separation · Emigration · Low self-esteem · Perfectionism · People-pleasing · Assertiveness & boundaries · Overthinking · Chronic busyness  

Background 

Before moving into private practice, I worked within Te Whatu Ora in Community Mental Health, supporting people with moderate to severe mental health challenges, and at Aronui Ora — a service dedicated to the emotional wellbeing of mothers through pregnancy and their infant’s first year. 

If this sounds like what you’re looking for, I’d welcome your enquiry.