Philosophy

Dr Celine Wills

Clinical Psychologis DClinPsy

Philosophy

I love doing this work and have gained so much personally from being able to walk alongside people when they are in a time in their life when things feel particularly hard, they have big questions about who they are, or are trying to find meaning and purpose in their life. I believe that good therapy happens in the context of a trusting relationship and that this is where my strength lies- I am warm, level-headed, empathetic, and non-judgemental, and strive to work collaboratively, flexibly, and creatively with my clients. I want people to walk out of my sessions feeling supported, safe, and more equipped with psychological tools in their kete to deal with the challenges they are facing.

Qualifications

Doctorate in Clinical Psychology

Honours in Psychology (first class)

Master of Arts (Sociology, first class honours),

Bachelor of Arts (Sociology & Philosophy)

Experience

I am a Clinical Psychologist who has been working in the field for 10 years. I have worked in public community mental health, both in New Zealand and in the UK, holding positions in community teams, as well as working in specialist teams supporting young people experiencing psychosis. This experience has allowed me the opportunity to work with a diverse group of adults and young people, seeking help for a range of different challenges.
I hold a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Auckland, as well as a Masters in Sociology. I hold a current practicing certificate issued by the New Zealand Psychologists Board.

Approach

I am trained primarily in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (including mindfulness informed CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, in addition to gaining expertise in Trauma-informed therapy. I also frequently draw on family systems theory, developmental theory, attachment theory, and other relevant psychological models to inform assessment and treatment. I find my background in sociology is really helpful in seeing the bigger picture, and how individual problems can be best understood within a wider context. I work collaboratively with people to help them reach their goals and aim to be flexible in my approach.
I am committed to practicing in accordance to the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi, and believe that there is an imperative for clinicians working in Aotearoa to be culturally responsive and work in a non-discriminatory manner. I offer psychological therapy for a range of challenges, including:

  • Depressed mood

  • Anxiety, including OCD, social anxiety and panic

  • Stress

  • Anger and/or trouble regulating emotions

  • Trauma

  • Grief and loss

  • Life changes and life transitions

  • Work stress

  • Relationship challenges

  • Hearing, seeing or experiencing things that other people are not—which is sometimes referred to as “psychosis”

  • I also offer clinical supervision of Registered Psychologists.