Waikato Counselling

Person Centred Therapy

At Waikato Counselling, we offer compassionate, client-centred counselling to support you through life’s challenges. Our approach is based on Person-Centred Therapy, which means you are in control of your healing journey. We provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions, experiences, and personal growth at your own pace.

Phil : “By offering empathy, honesty, and unconditional acceptance, I create a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their emotions, experiences, and personal growth at their own pace.”

Kristina: “Building trust is the foundation of my counselling approach. I bring warmth and honesty to each session, ensuring that clients feel valued, respected, and heard.”

Our practice embraces a bi-cultural approach, honouring the Te Tiriti o Waitangi and incorporating Māori values to create an inclusive and respectful space for all. These principles guide our work, ensuring that every client—regardless of background—feels supported, heard, and valued. By embedding these ethical principles in our practice, we foster healing through respect, deep listening, and compassionate care. They include :

• Aroha ki te tangata – Respect for people
• He kanohi kitea – The importance of face-to-face connection
• Titiro, whakaarongo, kōrero – Observe, listen, then speak
• Manaakitanga – Generosity and sharing of oneself and resources
• Kia tūpato – Practicing caution and care
• Kaua e takahia te mana o te tangata – Upholding each person’s dignity

How We Can Help

We work with individuals facing a range of emotional and psychological challenges, including:

• Trauma & Abuse – Support for survivors of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.
• Anxiety & Stress – Techniques to manage worry, panic, and overwhelm.
• Depression & Low Self-Esteem – Helping you rebuild confidence and find hope.
• Grief & Loss – Coping strategies for navigating loss and bereavement.
• Relationships & Family Issues – Strengthening communication and emotional connections.
• Men’s Mental Health – Addressing identity, emotional well-being, and societal pressures.

What to Expect

Your first session is a chance to talk about what’s bringing you to counselling. We’ll explore your needs and goals, ensuring you feel comfortable and supported.

Book a session today—fill out the form below, and we’ll be in touch within 24 hours to schedule your appointment. You don’t have to go through this alone. We’re here to help.

Counsellors

Phil and Kristina Terrey are experienced counsellors in Hamilton

Phil Terrey

Growing up in Whanganui, I gained deep insight into people and their struggles through a variety of life experiences. As a result, these experiences shaped my passion for counselling. Before transitioning into this field, I worked in various industries, ranging from trades to pastoral care, which allowed me to connect with people from all walks of life. Throughout my journey, one core belief has remained constant—every person’s story matters. This conviction ultimately led me to counselling, where I now help individuals navigate their challenges with empathy and support.

In my forties, I began my formal training as a counsellor, studying from 2005 to 2007. During this time, I earned a Diploma in Counselling from Laidlaw College in Palmerston North. My motivation stemmed from a strong desire to help people from diverse backgrounds—both within and beyond the church community. Continuing my professional growth, I later pursued further studies, earning my Bachelor in Counselling from Laidlaw College in Auckland in 2021.

my experience…

I spent my first few years counselling at Living Without Violence, HRC, and Family Counselling Centre. After gaining valuable experience in these roles, I relocated to Hamilton in 2009. Once there, I began working in addictions and mental health counselling with several kaupapa Māori agencies. During this period, I also pursued additional training in addictions and mental health, which further enhanced my ability to support clients facing complex challenges. As a result, I developed a deeper understanding of the unique needs of individuals struggling with mental health and addiction issues.

How I Can Help

I offer counselling for a range of concerns, including:

✔ Trauma & Abuse
✔ Anxiety & Stress
✔ Depression & Low Self-Esteem
✔ Grief & Loss
✔ Men’s Mental Health
✔ Relationship & Family Issues

Kristina Terrey

Originally from Waikari in Canterbury, I spent my childhood in Hamilton before later moving to Palmerston North. Studying at Massey University, I gained two degrees in agricultural science. Following graduation, I built my life around raising a family, gaining firsthand experience in resilience and navigating life’s transitions.

my EXPERIENCE…

My early work experiences included both customer service and farm work, which helped me develop adaptability, patience, and a strong work ethic. Later, in 2010, I worked as a Family Support Worker and soon after trained as a Financial Mentor. Through this work, I helped individuals and families improve their financial stability and regain control over their lives. As time passed, my experiences in community support and mentoring further strengthened my understanding of human struggles. This growing awareness ultimately inspired me to pursue counselling. I came to realize that emotional and psychological well-being are just as essential as financial security in helping people lead fulfilling lives. Finally, in 2019, I joined Waikato Counselling, where I continue to support individuals on their journey toward healing and growth.

I trained at Wintec in Hamilton, where I earned a Bachelor in Counselling (Paetahi Tumu Kōrero). This comprehensive, bi-cultural counselling degree placed a strong emphasis on culturally informed therapy.

How I Can Help

I provide counselling for:

✔ Women’s Mental Health
✔ Trauma & Abuse Recovery
✔ Anxiety & Stress
✔ Depression & Low Self-Esteem
✔ Grief & Bereavement
✔ Relationship Challenges

Ready to take the first step? Fill out the form below, we’ll be in touch within 24 hours to schedule a session that works for you. You don’t have to go through this alone—we’re here to help.

Contact a Counsellor

If you’re ready to take the next step, have a question, or would like more information about our services, we’re here to help. Use the form below to contact a counsellor — whether you’re looking to book a session, enquire about supervision, or simply want to connect. All enquiries are welcome and treated with care and confidentiality.

👉 Contact us by calling/emailing us directly, OR fill out the contact form below. We’ll get back to you within 24 hours.

Counselling Availability

Monday to Thursday from 11 am to 5.30 pm (last session)

Friday: Mornings only

Location

Brymer Road, Grandview Heights, Hamilton
(Full address provided upon booking. Sessions by appointment only.)

🅿️ Free parking available | Online sessions available on request

Ready to contact a counsellor?

Fill out the form below, and we’ll be in touch within 24 hours to arrange a time that suits you. We offer both in-person and online sessions—let us know your preference.

Fees, Funding & Counselling Policies

🧾 Session Fees

We aim to keep our fees affordable.

• Individual Counselling (50 minutes): $110
• Couples Counselling (50 minutes): $150
• Late Cancellation Fee: $40 — applies if less than 24 hours’ notice is given

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⏱ Payment Information

• When to Pay:
  Payment is due at the end of each session or within 24 hours of receiving your invoice.
• Payment Methods:
  • Internet banking
  • Cash (EFTPOS not available)
  • Invoices and receipts are emailed for your convenience
• Funded Referrals:
  If your sessions are funded (except through Work & Income NZ), we invoice the provider directly.

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🔁 Cancellations & Rescheduling

We understand life happens. If you need to cancel or reschedule:

• Please give at least 24 hours’ notice
• Cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice may incur a $40 late fee
• Frequent cancellations may indicate that this isn’t the right time for counselling, or that another therapist might be a better fit. We’re happy to discuss options with you.

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🧾 Funding Options

We work with several agencies to help reduce the cost of counselling:

Work & Income NZ:
We provide quotes and counselling forms to take to your GP for Disability Allowance applications. Funding is income-dependent.

PHOs (Primary Health Organisations):
We accept GP referrals through:

Pinnacle Midlands Health Network

Hauraki PHO

National Hauora Coalition (NHC)

ACC (Sensitive Claims):
Kristina Terrey is registered with ACC to provide therapy under the Sensitive Claims Service.

EAP (Employee Assistance Programmes):
We are providers for:

Instep

Telus

Southern Cross Healthcare (formerly Raise)

Vitae

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🧷 Confidentiality in Counselling

Everything you share in counselling is confidential. Your personal information and session content are kept private.

Exceptions to Confidentiality:

There are rare situations where we may be required to share information:

• Serious risk of harm to you or someone else
• If you’re unable to make safe decisions (impaired competence)
• Legal obligations (e.g., court orders)
• In response to a formal complaint about your counselling

We will always aim to discuss this with you if confidentiality needs to be broken.

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⚖️ Our Ethical Commitment

We follow the New Zealand Christian Counsellors Association (NZCCA) Code of Ethics, which promotes:

• Professionalism and accountability
• Cultural safety and inclusion
• Partnership principles under the Treaty of Waitangi

We encourage you to view the NZCCA Code of Ethics and the NZ Privacy Act 2020 for full details.

✅ Book a Session

Ready to take the first step?
Fill out the form below, and we’ll contact you within 24 hours to schedule a session that works for you.