Services

How I can help

Counselling for adults, children and families, in person on the North Shore or online. Every session is 60 minutes.

Adults

One-to-one counselling for whatever you're facing, whether it's recent or something you've carried for years.

Children

Child-centred play therapy helps children express big feelings they may not have words for yet. I work closely with parents and caregivers.

Sessions & fees All sessions are 60 minutes Adults $110 Children $100 Face to face or online, same fee

What we can work on

Choose a topic to find out more

My approach

Building on what is already strong in you

At the heart of my work

Strengths-based

Rather than focusing only on what's happened, we notice what's working: the skills, values, relationships and hopes that have carried you this far. Together we build on those, so you leave counselling more aware of your own resilience.

Person-centred

You lead. I offer acceptance, empathy and honesty, trusting that with support you can find your own way forward.

Narrative therapy

We explore the stories you tell about your life, separate you from the problem, and find the stories of strength that get overlooked.

Child-centred play therapy

Play is a child's natural language. In a safe playroom, children work through feelings at their own pace.

What happens in counselling

What to expect

  1. Get in touch

    Call, email or send a message. Share as much or as little as you like.

  2. A short chat

    We'll talk briefly by phone to see if we're a good fit and find a time that suits.

  3. First session

    We get to know each other, and I explain how confidentiality works so you know your privacy is protected. Then we talk about what's brought you here and what you'd like to be different.

  4. Moving forward

    We meet regularly at a pace that suits you, and check in along the way.

Privacy & confidentiality

What you share stays with us

Everything you share in counselling is treated as confidential, in line with the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC) Code of Ethics and the Health Information Privacy Code 2020. Your information is only shared with your consent, except in the rare situations explained here.

Your consent

At our first session I'll explain, in clear and simple language, how counselling works, what it costs, and the extent and limits of confidentiality. You're welcome to ask questions, and you can change your mind or stop counselling at any time.

When information may need to be shared

Confidentiality has a few limits: if there is serious danger to you or someone else, if you're not able to make safe decisions for yourself, or if the law requires it. Wherever it's safe to do so, I'll talk with you first, and only the minimum information needed will be shared.

Your records

Notes are stored securely and kept private. You have the right to see your records and to know how they're kept and who can access them.

Children and young people

Children receive information in a way that suits their age, and their views and consent matter too. I work in partnership with parents and caregivers and share general progress with them, while keeping the details of what a child says private so they feel safe to open up. If a child's safety is at risk, I will always act to protect them.

Questions

Frequently asked

Do I need a referral?

No. You can contact me directly. Referrals from GPs, schools and other professionals are also welcome.

How many sessions will I need?

It's different for everyone. Some people come for a few sessions, others for longer. We'll keep checking in about what's helpful, and you can stop at any time.

Does online counselling work?

Yes. Many people find it just as helpful as meeting in person, and it can be easier to fit around work and family. You'll need a private space and a reliable internet connection.

How do sessions with children work?

I usually meet parents or caregivers first to understand what's happening, then see your child for play-based sessions and keep you updated along the way.

Can we talk in Arabic or Armenian?

Yes. Sessions are available in English, Arabic and Armenian, whichever you're most comfortable in.

Get in touch

From darkness to dawn, you don’t have to walk alone

Contact me
Rand Buttrus, counsellor, New Dawn Counselling
Phone
021 0251 8511
Email
buttrusrand@gmail.com
Where
North Shore, Auckland · Face to face or online
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