Wellington
Registered Counsellor (NZAC)
About My Practice
With 16 years of experience as a qualified therapist, I provide a warm, authentic, and "real" space where your humanity is as welcome as mine. My practice is built on a foundation of Person-Centred Therapy, meaning I rely on your response and feedback to ensure our work meets your specific needs and you maintain personal agency throughout the therapy process.
My background ranges from early clinical work with children and families to acute mental health and addictions. This history provides me with a deep understanding of human development—how our early environments and systemic influences shape the adults we become. The concept of organismic wisdom guides my practice: the belief that our bodies and minds have an inherent, natural drive toward healing and balance if given the right environment of safety and support. In therapy we focus on creating such a space, and identify the blocks that are getting in the way, without judgment.
My Approach: Where the Body Meets the Story
Sexual concerns are rarely just about sex. They are often deeply rooted in how our nervous systems respond to safety or threat, and how past experiences influence current strategies to meet our fundamental human needs. I utilize a bio-psycho-social model in assessment and treatment and integrate several evidence-based modalities.
Specialized Areas of Focus
I am passionate about helping individuals make sense of their sexual thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without the weight of judgment.
Sexual Self-Regulation & Alignment: I support those who feel their sexual choices or impulses have become overwhelming or disconnected from their personal values, or are causing harm. Sometimes called addiction or out of control sexual behaviours.
Healing from Sexual Trauma: Navigating how past harm impacts current desire, arousal, and connection.
Human Development and Identity Deconstruction: Understanding how our interaction with the world and the people in it has shaped us and our sexual templates.
Therapy with me is not about "fixing" you or forcing change. It is about building understanding, safety, and choice over time. Whether you are navigating erectile difficulties, changes in desire, or seeking a more empowered relationship with your sexuality, we will work collaboratively and at a pace that feels right for you.
Inclusive Practice: I offer a kink and BDSM-aware, LGBTQIA+ affirming space for all identities, parts and perspectives.
Fees & Practicalities
Individual Sessions: $175 (incl GST) for a 50-minute appointment.
Format: Currently offering online sessions only.
ACC: I am an ISC-ACC supplier through Haumi Psychology for sensitive claims.
Cancellations: Please note that appointments not kept or cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice are charged in full.
Dip. Counselling; Post Grad Cert Health Science; NZAC
Karen Macpherson is one of our senior consultants in Wellington
I work with emotional and sexual intimacy issues and use attachment, C.B.T and art therapy modalities, where appropriate. I acknowledge and respect the uniqueness of each person. I am attentive to individual needs and mindful of culture. My passion is to see people living the life they want, being all that they want to be. I work from rooms in Whitby and offer some evening and weekend appointments.
I completed Advanced Sex Therapy training through the University of Auckland in 2012 but I have 15 years’ experience as a qualified counsellor and my early clinical work with children and families in a Family Counselling Practice means that my practice is underpinned by the knowledge that an individual is a part of a system.
My fee for new clients is $190 per 50 minute session. Please also be aware that once made, appointments not kept or cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice will be charged. This service is only available to people who are in New Zealand at the time of the consult or to New Zealanders overseas.