Psychologist · Campbells Bay, North Shore
Support on the journey to living a rich and meaningful life
Clara Pietersen offers psychological therapy in Campbells Bay on Auckland’s North Shore, supporting you along life’s journey and the path to living the life you want.
About
Clara Pietersen
Committed to providing therapy that’s effective, non-judgemental, warm and kind.
I love working with people who are ready to understand themselves more deeply and live differently.
My path to psychology wasn’t linear. After a science degree, I spent 15 years in the corporate IT world before returning to what had always drawn me.
I grew up in Portugal and South Africa before a spontaneous decision brought me to New Zealand. Now I call it home.
My clients have taught me as much about myself as I hope I’ve taught them, and seeing people thrive is what keeps me doing this work.
“Awareness is the greatest agent of change.”
Eckhart Tolle
Therapies and support
What types of therapy and support do I offer?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Identify and shift unhelpful thoughts, beliefs and behaviour patterns to build lasting emotional wellbeing.
Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Helps build psychological flexibility and commit to positive behavioural changes that align with your values.
Mindfulness
Practical tools to calm the mind, reduce stress and reconnect with the present moment.
I work with clients who are experiencing:
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Anxiety and stress+
Understand what drives your anxiety and develop practical strategies for relief.
Depression and mood disorders+
Regain energy, hope and balance with compassionate, evidence-based therapy.
Workplace stress and burnout+
Recover from burnout and rebuild resilience with targeted psychological support.
Life transitions+
Navigate change (relationships, career, identity) with grounded, expert support.
Self-esteem and confidence+
Build a stronger sense of self through insight-driven, personalised therapy.
Phobias and OCD+
Reduce the grip of phobias and OCD with structured, evidence-based techniques.
Anger management+
Understand the roots of your anger and develop calmer, healthier responses.
Parenting challenges+
Gain confidence and clarity in your parenting role with compassionate support.
How I work
My personal philosophy towards therapy
I believe self-awareness is where change begins. When we can see clearly how our inner world shapes our behaviour, relationships and experiences, we discover the capacity for change.
It’s all about the practical insights and tools that move you towards a more harmonious way of living.
Therapy is a potent space for this discovery, where we can explore different pathways beyond the old patterns holding you back.
What can you expect during and after a session with me?
Therapy is tailored to each individual client, taking into account their needs and life situation. Sessions are usually one hour long.
In the initial sessions, I gather information to get a big-picture understanding of you: what is affecting you, how you experience your life and what is happening for you, both internally and externally.
Through this process, you also gain clarity and insight into your life and who you are.
As therapy progresses, insight and clarity into your challenges deepen, including awareness of what needs to change.
From there, we develop and practise new strategies and skills to support that change.
“Through deepening self-awareness and practice, you become your own therapist in the long run.”
Clara
Qualifications
What are my qualifications?
After 15 years in IT, I decided to follow my true passion: psychology.
Clara Pietersen is registered as a psychologist with the New Zealand Psychologists Board and sees clients at her practice in Campbells Bay on Auckland’s North Shore, New Zealand.
I continue to develop my skills through ongoing professional development, so I can offer the best evidence-based support to each of my clients. My goal is to help you feel heard, understood and empowered.
Hear from my clients (anonymised for privacy)
Testimonials
How many sessions will I need?
This varies from person to person. Some clients find meaningful progress in a focused short-term period, while others benefit from ongoing support over a longer timeframe. Sessions are spaced according to each client’s needs, and we’ll work this out together as therapy progresses.
What if I feel nervous about therapy?
Feeling nervous is very common, especially before the first appointment. You are not expected to know what to say or do. Therapy is a collaborative and supportive process, and you can move at a pace that feels comfortable.
What should I do before my appointment?
There is no need to do anything before your first appointment, but some people find it helpful to think about what they need help with and to write down any questions or concerns.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring a support person. It helps if you let me know beforehand.
What if I become upset during a session?
Strong emotions can arise during therapy and are a normal part of the process. I am trained to support you safely through difficult conversations and emotions.
Is everything I share confidential?
Yes. Everything discussed in sessions is confidential. There are a small number of legal exceptions — for example, if there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others — which I explain clearly at the start of our work together.
Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?
No referral is needed. You can get in touch directly to request a session.
Do you offer online or phone sessions?
From time to time, I see clients online for practical reasons, or when clients have moved out of Auckland but would like to continue with therapy.
Do you offer ACC funded sessions?
No, I do not provide ACC funded sessions.
Where is your practice located?
The practice is located in Campbells Bay on Auckland’s North Shore, New Zealand.
What’s the difference between a psychologist and a counsellor?
Psychologists in New Zealand must complete a minimum of six years of university training and are registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board. This means they are qualified to assess, diagnose and treat a wide range of psychological conditions using evidence-based approaches. Counsellors and therapists have varying levels of training and are not subject to the same regulatory requirements.
What’s the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specialises in mental health and can prescribe medication. A psychologist focuses on therapy and psychological assessment. Clara works with evidence-based therapeutic approaches to support lasting, meaningful change.
Contact
Ready to chat? Let’s find a time.
If you’re ready to begin therapy with me, get in touch by phone or email. Once I hear from you, I’ll arrange an introductory call and organise a suitable session time.
