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Best Psychologists in Tauranga: Top Registered Experts for Mental Health

Tauranga offers access to skilled professionals providing evidence-based support for anxiety, trauma, neurodivergence, and personal growth. The best psychologists in Tauranga deliver compassionate care tailored to individuals, couples, and families across the Bay of Plenty. Practices like Mind Matters Clinic, Wayfarer Psychology, and Arise Therapy stand out for their expertise and client-focused approaches.

1Dr. Amber McAllister – Mind Matters Clinic

Mind Matters Clinic is a nationwide practice with clinicians including Dr. Amber McAllister, a Clinical Psychologist based in Tauranga. The team specialises in neurodiversity support and workplace mental health, offering assessments and therapy for adults across Aotearoa. Their services suit individuals seeking ADHD or autism support, resilience building, and evidence-based care in a neurodivergent-friendly environment.

Services

  • Adult ADHD and autism assessments
  • Neurodiversity support and diagnosis
  • Workplace mental health services and training
  • Clinical supervision and consultation
  • Coaching and wellbeing programmes

Highlights

  • Team of accredited and registered clinical psychologists
  • Nationwide access with low wait times
  • Rainbow-friendly and neurodivergent-friendly provider
  • Female-owned social enterprise
  • Winners of national David Awards

Location & Contact

Name: Dr. Amber McAllister – Mind Matters Clinic
Address: Tauranga
Phone: 0800 6463 47
Website: www.mindmatters.clinic

2Josette Wulffaert – Wayfarer Psychology

Josette Wulffaert is a registered Clinical Psychologist operating Wayfarer Psychology in Pāpāmoa, Tauranga. She provides trauma-informed, evidence-based therapy with a warm and validating approach, empowering clients to navigate emotional challenges. Her practice suits adults and adolescents seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, or self-esteem in a compassionate private setting.

Services

  • Individual therapy for adults and adolescents
  • EMDR for trauma processing
  • CBT and ACT approaches
  • ACC sensitive claims support
  • Training for school staff and mental health professionals

Highlights

  • Accredited EMDR practitioner and Consultant in Training with EMDRNZ Association
  • Registered with New Zealand Psychologists Board and New Zealand Psychological Society
  • PhD and extensive experience in specialised services in the Netherlands and Aotearoa
  • Relocated to Tauranga Moana in 2018
  • Provides clinical supervision for health professionals

Location & Contact

Name: Josette Wulffaert – Wayfarer Psychology
Address: 3/5 Golden Sands Drive, Pāpāmoa Beach, Pāpāmoa 3118
Phone: 027 209 2673
Website: www.wayfarerpsychology.co.nz

3Dr. Evelyn Aranas – Arise Therapy

Dr. Evelyn Aranas is a Neuropsychologist and Clinical Psychologist at Arise Therapy in Tauranga. She offers therapy and assessments for adults, children, and adolescents, focusing on a wide range of psychological functioning including trauma, anxiety, and neurodevelopmental needs. The practice suits individuals, couples, families, and those requiring supervision or organisational training.

Services

  • Psychological therapy for adults, adolescents, and children
  • Neurodevelopmental assessments for ASD and ADHD
  • Clinical supervision for psychologists and other professionals
  • Training and coaching for organisations
  • Support for depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and chronic health conditions

Highlights

  • Registered Clinical and Neuropsychologist with New Zealand Psychologist Board (#90-05023)
  • Member of NZSIGN, EMDRNZ, and NZCCP
  • Doctoral training through Massey University
  • Experience in mental health and child development services at DHBs
  • Uses modalities including ACT, EMDR, CBT, and mindfulness

Location & Contact

Name: Dr. Evelyn Aranas – Arise Therapy
Address: Suite 3, 556 Cameron Road, Tauranga
Phone: 022 530 8496
Website: www.arisetherapy.co.nz

4The Psychology Group

The Psychology Group is an established practice with a team of clinical psychologists and clinicians serving Tauranga from their local clinic. They provide comprehensive therapeutic support in a supportive, non-judgmental environment for individuals, couples, and families. The practice suits those seeking trauma-informed care, skills training, or ACC-funded services in the Bay of Plenty.

Services

  • Individual therapy
  • Couples and family therapy
  • Group therapy including DBT skills training
  • Trauma-informed therapy using EMDR and Prolonged Exposure
  • Mindfulness and stress reduction

Highlights

  • ACC Sensitive Claims Service Provider
  • Team of registered clinical psychologists serving Tauranga
  • Locations including 60 Eighth Ave, Tauranga
  • Focus on hinengaro wellbeing and community connection
  • Offers online and in-person options

Location & Contact

Name: The Psychology Group
Address: 60 Eighth Ave, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty 3110
Phone: 07 262 2624
Website: www.tpgroup.co.nz

5Nari Hann Clinical Psychologist

Nari Hann is a Clinical Psychologist in Tauranga with over 20 years of experience in the community sector. She works collaboratively to support clients with mental health challenges using evidence-based and culturally responsive approaches, including Māori models of health. Her practice suits individuals and families seeking a safe, non-judgemental space for growth and healing.

Services

  • CBT for anxiety, PTSD, and depression
  • EMDR for trauma, grief, and addictions
  • ACT for workplace stress and anxiety
  • Māori Models of Health including Te Whare Tapa Whā
  • Mindfulness, relaxation, and Compassion Focused Therapy

Highlights

  • Masters of Clinical Psychology
  • Registered with NZ Psychology Board and NZ College of Clinical Psychologists
  • Member of NZ Psychological Society
  • Over 20 years experience as social worker and registered counsellor
  • Offers private, PHO, and ACC funding options

Location & Contact

Name: Nari Hann Clinical Psychologist
Address: Tauranga
Website: www.psychological.co.nz

How to Choose the Right Psychologist in Tauranga

  • Confirm registration with the New Zealand Psychologists Board to ensure professional standards and qualifications.
  • Check for ACC provider status if seeking support for trauma, sensitive claims, or accident-related issues.
  • Match specialisations such as neurodivergence, EMDR for trauma, or culturally responsive care to your specific needs.
  • Consider therapeutic approaches like CBT, ACT, or mindfulness and discuss fit during an initial consultation.
  • Evaluate location convenience in Tauranga suburbs, online availability, and session flexibility for your schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tauranga Psychologists

How do I find a qualified psychologist in Tauranga?

You can search the New Zealand Psychologists Board’s online register to locate registered practitioners in the area. Always verify credentials directly with the professional before beginning therapy.

What issues can psychologists in Tauranga help with?

Psychologists in Tauranga support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, stress, neurodivergence such as ADHD and autism, relationship concerns, grief, and adjustment to chronic health conditions.

Can I see a psychologist online if I live outside central Tauranga?

Yes, many psychologists in the Tauranga area offer secure online video sessions, making support accessible for clients in nearby suburbs or rural parts of the Bay of Plenty.

Is therapy with a psychologist covered by ACC in New Zealand?

Yes, therapy can be covered by ACC for eligible clients dealing with trauma or injuries from accidents or abuse when the psychologist is an approved provider. Visit the ACC website for more details on sensitive claims and counselling support.

How long does therapy with a psychologist typically last?

Duration varies based on individual goals and needs. Some clients benefit from short-term therapy of several sessions, while others engage in longer-term work for deeper processing and skill development.

What should I expect in the first session with a psychologist?

The initial session usually involves a collaborative assessment to understand your concerns, set goals, and determine if the psychologist is a good fit. It provides an opportunity to ask questions in a confidential setting.

Are there funding options beyond private payment for psychology services in Tauranga?

Yes, options may include ACC for eligible claims, subsidised sessions through Primary Health Organisations (PHOs), or other contracts. Discuss eligibility directly with the psychologist or your GP.