Counselling Tauranga – Individual & Couples Counselling

I'm Mel Zajkowski, a registered counsellor and couples therapist based in Tauranga. I offer individual counselling, relationship counselling and EMDR therapy for people experiencing emotional difficulties, trauma, relationship challenges and other personal concerns.

 

Perhaps you're struggling with anxiety or depression, feeling overwhelmed by stress, or finding it difficult to move forward after a painful experience. Or you and your partner may be experiencing communication difficulties, recurring conflicts or a loss of connection.

 

I understand that reaching out for counselling can feel like a big step. My aim is to provide a warm, safe and non-judgemental environment where you feel comfortable sharing your experiences and exploring what matters to you.

 

I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, tailoring our work to your individual needs.

 

Below you can explore the different areas I can help you with.

A supportive space to talk and find your way forward

Life can bring experiences that leave us feeling overwhelmed, uncertain or disconnected from ourselves and others.

 

Sometimes we're dealing with something that has happened recently. At other times, difficult experiences from the past continue to influence how we feel, think and respond to everyday situations.

 

I believe that counselling can provide an opportunity to understand these experiences, recognise patterns that may be holding you back and explore different ways of moving forward.

 

My approach is compassionate, collaborative and guided by your needs. I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach, and I recognise that everyone brings their own experiences, strengths and challenges to counselling.

 

Together, we can explore what's happening in your life, build on the resources you already have and develop practical strategies for positive change.

 

Trauma counselling and EMDR therapy

I have a particular interest in supporting people affected by trauma and distressing past experiences.

 

Trauma can affect your confidence, relationships, emotional wellbeing and sense of safety, sometimes long after an experience has passed.

 

I hold specialist postgraduate qualifications in working therapeutically with trauma and have undertaken training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing).

 

My approach to trauma counselling is gentle and paced by you, with safety and trust always coming first.

 

Where appropriate, EMDR therapy can help you process distressing memories and reduce the impact they continue to have on your present life.

 

Couples counselling and relationship support

Relationships can be a source of comfort and connection, but they can also become difficult when communication breaks down, trust is damaged or partners begin to feel distant from each other.

 

As a couples therapist, I work with partners who are experiencing recurring conflicts, intimacy difficulties, infidelity or other relationship challenges.

 

I have undertaken training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples, which helps partners explore the emotional patterns underlying their difficulties.

 

My aim is to create a neutral and supportive environment where both partners can feel heard, develop greater understanding and consider how they would like to move forward.

 

My approach to counselling

I draw on several therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Strengths-Based Therapy.

 

Depending on your circumstances, our work may involve developing practical ways of managing difficult thoughts and emotions, exploring the influence of past experiences or recognising strengths and resources that can support you through change.

 

I believe that understanding yourself with compassion, rather than judgement, is an important part of personal growth and emotional wellbeing.

 

Whether you're seeking support with anxiety, depression, addiction recovery, grief, stress or relationship difficulties, we can work together to find an approach that feels right for you.

 

Counselling in Tauranga and online

I offer face-to-face individual and couples counselling in Tauranga, as well as online counselling for individuals and couples throughout New Zealand.

 

Whether you're looking for support with a particular concern or simply feel that something in your life needs attention, you're welcome to get in touch.

 

Would you like to know more or make an appointment? Please feel free to contact me.

 

Mel

Counsellor & Couples Therapist

Registered with NZAC