Kōwhai Therapeutic Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed. You can self‑refer and book directly.
We do recommend a free initial consultation before your first session.
What is the initial consultation?
The initial consultation is a brief, free phone call with a counsellor. Its purpose is to:
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make sure you are matched with the right counsellor
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help the booking process run smoothly
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gather some initial information about what you are hoping to work on
This allows your counsellor to begin thinking about your needs before your first session, so we can maximise the support from the very start.
Is counselling confidential?
Yes. Counselling is confidential.
There are standard safety‑related exceptions, such as serious risk to your safety or someone else’s. If confidentiality ever needed to be broken, we would discuss this with you wherever possible.
Do you offer online counselling?
Yes. We provide secure online counselling across New Zealand.
Online sessions follow the same professional, ethical, and confidentiality standards as in‑person counselling.
Where are you located?
We are located at:
Level 1, 84 Main Road, Tawa, Wellington
In‑person counselling is available at this location, with online counselling available nationwide.
How long are counselling sessions?
Standard sessions are 45 minutes.
You are also able to book double sessions if you feel you would benefit from more time.
How many counselling sessions will I need?
This varies from person to person.
Some people come for a focused block of counselling (for example, 4–8 sessions), while others prefer longer‑term support. We will regularly review progress with you and adjust the approach as needed.
What if I’m not sure what I need?
That’s very normal.
You don’t need to have everything figured out before starting. You can contact us, or use the free initial consultation, and we’ll help you decide where to begin.
What are your fees?
Our fees vary depending on the experience level of the counsellor, allowing you to choose an option that fits your needs and budget.
Individual counselling:
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approximately $50 – $180 per session
Couples counselling:
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approximately $100 – $230 per session
Family counselling:
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starts from $230 per session
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pricing is linked to the number of people attending the session
Up‑to‑date fees are available at the time of booking.
What happens after I book?
After booking, you will receive an intake form to complete before your session.
This form:
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provides important information required for our clinical system
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helps meet our ethical and professional obligations
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is confidential and securely stored
For couples counselling
Both individuals are asked to complete separate intake forms.
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These forms are not shared with the other partner
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They give your counsellor insight into each person’s needs before the session
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All information remains confidential at all times
This helps your counsellor support the session effectively from the outset.