Background

I am a Registered Psychologist who works with adults and young people 18y + experiencing a range of mental health difficulties. Aside from private practice, I have worked in a variety of other clinical contexts including; community mental health, and the public health sector in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I have also worked for several years in a specialist anxiety clinic which is a particular passion of mine.

In addition to being a Registered Psychologist, I am also a member of the New Zealand Psychological Society, The Institute of Health Psychologists, and the New Zealand Pain Society.

Approach

As a therapist I strive to provide a warm, supportive and genuine approach, and believe that the therapeutic relationship is essential to a good outcome. My goal is to support you in developing effective ways of coping, while exploring and addressing underlying issues that may be contributing to your current life struggles, emotional distress or interpersonal problems.

The first appointment typically involves an assessment where we work together to define the difficulties you’re facing, and then create goals for treatment. The following sessions involve the therapeutic work to achieve these goals.

I use concepts from a variety of evidence-based therapies including CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), Compassion Focused Therapy and different mindfulness processes depending on the individuals need.

Specialisations

  • Low mood/depression
  • Anxiety, including OCD, social anxiety, panic  and health anxiety.
  • Stress management & burnout
  • Anger emotion regulation difficulties
  • Managing significant life transitions and changes
  • Grief and loss
  • Relationship challenges
  • Low self-esteem and self-confidence
  • Coping with chronic health issues

Qualifications

  • Post Graduate Diploma in Health Psychology (Clinical), The University of Auckland
  • Master of Health Psychology (1st Class Hons), The University of Auckland
  • Bachelor of Arts (Psychology), The University of Auckland

Fees

Fees are $220 (incl GST) for a 55-minute appointment payable by bank transfer or cash prior to or at the time of the appointment.

There is no charge if you cancel an appointment 24 hours or more prior to the scheduled time, as this allows me time to offer the appointment to other clients on my waitlist. However, a 50% fee will apply if a session is cancelled on the day, and the full fee will apply for failure to attend a booked session without notice.

Making an appointment 

To book your first appointment, the best way to contact me is via email. Let me know a little bit about what you’d like help with and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.

​Appointment times are available on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday 10 – 6pm either in person or via zoom.

Contact:

Jessica Andrews-Smith

andrewssmithpsychology@gmail.com