Perinatal, family and individual counsellor: Warm, evidence-based counselling for mothers, parents, individuals and families in Christchurch and online. Supporting families through life’s most important transitions.

My approach is warm, collaborative and evidence-based, creating a safe space to explore challenges, understand what matters to you, and move towards meaningful change.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy helps us develop a different relationship with difficult thoughts and emotions.
Rather than struggling to eliminate uncomfortable experiences, ACT focuses on developing psychological flexibility and taking actions that are consistent with what matters most to you.

My work is trauma-informed and centred around creating a safe, respectful and non-judgmental space.
This means recognising that previous experiences can influence how we feel, think, relate to others and respond to difficult situations.

Having lived and worked across Chile, Germany and New Zealand, I understand some of the challenges associated with migration, cultural transitions, identity and belonging.
Counselling is adapted to your individual background, values and circumstances.

Effective counselling is about more than techniques. I combine evidence-based psychological approaches with a strong focus on the therapeutic relationship, creating a space in which you can feel heard, understood and supported.
I offer a range of counselling services for individuals, couples and families, with a particular focus on wellbeing, relationships, life transitions and perinatal mental health. Sessions are tailored to your needs and available in Christchurch and online.

Individual counselling offers a supportive and confidential space to explore challenges affecting your wellbeing, relationships or daily life. I can support you with anxiety, stress, difficult life transitions, identity and cultural adjustment, relationship concerns, and finding practical ways to move forward.

Pregnancy, birth and becoming a parent can bring significant emotional and practical changes. I provide support during pregnancy and after birth, including with anxiety, low mood, identity changes, adjustment to parenthood and the challenges that can accompany this important life transition.

Couples therapy provides a supportive space to work through communication difficulties, recurring conflict, relationship changes and the transition into parenthood. Together, we can explore patterns in your relationship and develop practical ways to reconnect and move forward.

Family therapy can help when stress, conflict or major changes are affecting relationships within the family. Sessions focus on improving communication, understanding different perspectives and finding constructive ways to address challenges together.

“Reach Out, Stay Strong, Essentials for mothers of newborns” (ROSE) is an evidence-based programme designed to help prevent postnatal depression and support mothers during pregnancy and the early period after birth. It provides practical tools for managing stress, strengthening relationships, building support networks and preparing for the transition to motherhood.

Major life changes can bring uncertainty, stress and a sense of losing your footing. Counselling can support you through transitions such as moving country, changing careers, becoming a parent, relationship changes or other significant shifts, helping you adjust, clarify what matters to you and find a way forward.
I am Camila Caro-Castro, a counsellor based in Christchurch, New Zealand.
I hold a five-year Professional Degree in Health Psychology from the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile and have more than 10 years of professional experience across Chile, Germany and New Zealand.
My counselling approach is warm, practical and evidence-based, with a particular focus on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I work with individuals, couples and families and have a particular interest in maternal mental health, parenting, relationships and the emotional challenges that accompany important life transitions.
Sessions are available in English and Spanish.

Reaching out for counselling can sometimes be difficult. If you have questions about my approach, fees or availability, or would like to arrange a session, please get in touch. I normally respond within two business days.
Contact email: camilacarocastro@gmail.com
Phone / WhatsApp: +64 28 8514 2419