About Me

Kia ora,

I’m Cheniel, a registered psychologist with the New Zealand Psychologists Board. I offer online therapy that’s compassionate, practical, and built around your real life.

Over the years, I’ve supported children, teens, adults, and families across Aotearoa—working alongside parents, schools, and whānau through my role in the Ministry of Education’s Learning Support team. I’ve helped clients navigate anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, parenting struggles, neurodivergence, and the ups and downs of life’s changes.

I take a collaborative and client-led approach. Therapy with me is warm, honest, and grounded in evidence, but it’s also flexible and human. Whether you’re working through anxiety, supporting a child through challenges at school, adjusting to a major life change, or just needing space to be heard—I’m here to walk alongside you with empathy and practical support.

Clients often tell me they value my honesty, compassion, and calm presence. Everyone has a story, and I believe we all do the best we can with the experiences and support we've had. I don’t see people as problems to be fixed, but as humans navigating life in the best way they know how.

As a mother of three, I understand firsthand the complexities and joys of family life. This personal experience enriches my professional practice, allowing me to connect deeply with clients navigating parenting and family dynamics.

I’ve always been fascinated by human behaviour and drawn to helping others. My work is grounded in respect for your story, your values, and your goals. I’m especially passionate about creating safe spaces for those who feel unheard or overwhelmed, and I bring a neurodivergent-affirming lens to all that I do.

Therapy should fit into your life—not the other way around. That’s why I offer online sessions that are just as personal and connected as in-person work, but with more flexibility. My hope is that when you show up to therapy with me, you feel supported, seen, and never judged.

Qualifications & Professional Background

  • Registered Psychologist – New Zealand Psychologists Board

  • Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology

  • Master of Applied Psychology

  • Bachelor of Social Sciences in Psychology (with Honours)

Research Contributions

  • Master’s thesis: Use your kind words please: Effects of tootling on student and teacher behaviour in New Zealand primary-school classrooms. Accessible online here

  • Co-author: Predicting Motor Skills From Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire Scores, Language Ability, and Other Features of New Zealand Children Entering Primary School, published in, The Australian Educational and Developmental Psychologist, 2014.

If this sounds like what you’re looking for, I’d love to hear from you.