Counselling in Ōtautahi
Tēna koe, and thank you for being here.
I offer a warm, down-to-earth approach to counselling in Ōtautahi (Christchurch) that supports clients of all ages, with a particular focus on youth. What sets me apart is my ability to create a safe, collaborative space where people feel truly heard and understood. Drawing on Solution Focused Therapy (SFT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I work alongside clients to navigate life’s challenges with compassion, clarity, and practical strategies. My goal is to empower individuals to connect with their values, build on their strengths, and move toward meaningful change.
As a culturally responsive counsellor, I am committed to working in partnership with Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and honouring its principles. I strive to create a therapeutic space that upholds and respects diverse perspectives, values, and ways of being. My work is grounded in ongoing learning and reflection, with the aim of building relationships that are authentic, safe, and empowering for all.
We can work together on:
- Anger
- Anxiety
- Grief/Loss
- Life Transitions
- Low Mood/Depression
- Rainbow Ally
- Relationship Issues (Friendships, Whānau)
- Stress
- Workplace Concerns
- And many more hurdles that life brings.
New Client Forms
Please complete the form and bring it with you.
Kelsey Clin (she/her)
Qualified Counsellor in Ōtauthai, Provisional Member NZAC
Kelsey brings over 17 years of experience in education, having worked as a primary and intermediate school educator as well as in school leadership roles across the United States and Aotearoa New Zealand. She holds a Masters in School Administration from North Carolina and a Masters in Counselling from the University of Canterbury. At UC, Kelsey specialized in Solution-Focused Therapy and also practices Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT).
While Kelsey specializes in working with youth, her practice is inclusive of individuals from all walks of life. She prioritizes creating a safe, respectful, and client-led space where each person feels recognized and heard.
Outside of work, Kelsey enjoys spending time with her two dogs, Huka and Tūī, in the hills, as well as cooking and gardening. Tūī is a part-time therapy dog and a very good doggo. If you are interested in Tūī joining a session, please let Kelsey know.


Tūrangawaewae
A place to stand, a foundation, a person’s place of connection
In 2018, our first dog joined our whānau. We named her Māia, meaning bravery and courage. She truly embodied her name and expanded my capacity for empathy and compassion. Sadly, at just eleven months old, she passed away suddenly due to anaphylactic shock. In my grief, a friend told me they had no doubt we would find each other again. Those words struck a deep chord and helped me make meaning of my relationship with Māia, and with my grief. The name of my counselling practice reflects my ongoing commitment to finding bravery and courage in my journey as a counsellor, and helping others find their own.