About My Practice:

Q: What are your areas of expertise?

A: I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma (including PTSD, complex trauma, and recent trauma). I also provide support for relationship issues, life transitions, stress management, self-esteem, and grief and loss. Additionally, I have a special interest in supporting neurodivergent adults.

Q: What therapeutic approaches do you use?

A: I use an integrative approach, tailoring therapy to each client's needs. I draw from evidence-based therapies like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).

Q: Do you offer couples therapy?

A: Yes, I do offer couples therapy. I help couples improve communication, resolve conflict, strengthen intimacy, and address specific relationship challenges. I utilize Gottman Method, and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT)

.Q: Do you offer clinical supervision?

A: Yes, I provide clinical supervision for therapists and mental health professionals, focusing on case conceptualization, skill development, ethical considerations, and professional growth.

Q: Do you work with neurodivergent adults?

A: Yes, I have a special interest in supporting neurodivergent adults and strive to create a neurodiversity-affirming practice. I do not complete assessments for ADHD or Autism. My focus is on the experiences that come with navigating life as a neurodivergent adult.

About Appointments & Logistics:

Q: How do I schedule an appointment?

A: You can schedule an appointment by calling me at 021 0808 3453 or emailing me at erica@dragonflypsychology.co.nz.

Q: What are your fees?

A: Initial assessments are typically about one and a half hours and cost $220. Most clients require an initial assessment before proceeding with therapy appointments. Therapy and clinical supervision appointments are 50 minutes long and cost $180. Couples therapy is also 50 minutes and $180 unless arranged for 80 minutes which would be $220. ​Payment on the day is preferred. Bank transfer or cash are the payment options.

Please note that there is no charge to you if it is related to ACC Sensitive Claims.

Q: Where are you located and where can I park

A: 147 Papanui Rd, Merivale Christchurch. Parking in the lot is unavailable however there is plenty of parking along Church Lane and Rugby Street. Also parking on Papanui Rd (9am-3pm). The office is close to bus stops 12505 and 12514, served by buses 1 and 95. On the other side of the road, 12925 and 12844, also served by lines 1 and 95

Q: Do you offer telehealth sessions?

A: Yes. I am happy to use a mix of in-person and telehealth or purely telehealth. We can always discuss flexibility at any point in our work together. Also please note that my office is upstairs, if this is a challenge for you we can certainly use telehealth.

Q: How long are therapy sessions?

A: Individual therapy and clinical supervision sessions are typically 50 minutes. Couples therapy sessions are typically 80 minutes

About Therapy & Confidentiality:

Q: What can I expect in my first session?

A: In your first session, we'll discuss your reasons for seeking therapy, your history, and your goals. We'll also discuss the therapeutic process and answer any questions you may have.

Q: Is therapy confidential?

A: Yes, therapy is confidential. I adhere to strict ethical guidelines regarding confidentiality. There are, however, some exceptions to confidentiality, such as when there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, or when required by law. We will discuss these exceptions in more detail during our initial session.

Q: How long does therapy typically last?

A: The length of therapy varies depending on individual needs and goals. Some individuals may benefit from short-term therapy, while others may require longer-term support. We will work together to determine the appropriate length of therapy for you.

Q: What if I need to cancel or reschedule an appointment?

A: Please provide at least 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. I understand that life can be messy and sometimes 24-hour notice is difficult, on those occasions, we can arrange for a phone or telehealth session if that suits you. If alternate methods and notice are not feasible, we can discuss rescheduling later in the week or payment of the cancellation fee which is 50% of your session fee.

Q: What if I have a crisis outside of therapy sessions?

A: If you are experiencing a crisis, please contact your local crisis hotline, or emergency services, or go to the nearest emergency room.

If there is an emergency, and you, or someone you know, is at immediate risk, call 111.

Crisis Resolution Team 0800 920 092

If you need to talk with someone you can call or txt 1737 to talk with a counsellor (24/7).

For peer support, you can call 0508 WARMLINE (0508 927 654).