FAQ’s/Resources

1. What is a Clinical Psychologist, and how are they different from other professionals?

At Navigate Psychology, Clinical Psychologists are highly trained professionals who assess, diagnose, and support individuals experiencing emotional, behavioural, developmental, or mental health challenges. We work across the lifespan—with children, adolescents, adults, families, and organisations—drawing on evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and EMDR. Our clinicians have deep expertise in areas like trauma, neurodiversity, emotional regulation, and complex family dynamics.

Here’s how Clinical Psychology is distinct from other professions:

• Counselling Psychology focuses on emotional wellbeing and personal growth but typically does not work with complex mental health diagnoses.
• Educational Psychology supports learning and behaviour in educational settings, but usually does not provide mental health therapy.
• Psychiatry is a medical speciality focused on diagnosis and medication, rather than therapeutic intervention.
• Therapist is a broad term and may include professionals with varying levels of psychological training.

Clinical Psychology offers a unique combination of mental health expertise, developmental insight, and therapeutic skills, making it particularly effective for families, individuals, and systems that need comprehensive, relational support.

2. How do I know if someone I care about needs to see a Clinical Psychologist?

You might consider engaging with us if you or someone in your whānau is experiencing:

• Anxiety, low mood, or significant emotional distress
• Behavioural challenges at home, school, or work
• Difficulties with attention, impulsivity, or emotional regulation
• Learning or developmental concerns
• Struggles with relationships or social interactions
• Coping difficulties, including sleep issues or ongoing stress

If you’re unsure, an initial consultation can help clarify what support might be most helpful.

3. What happens in the first session?

The first session is about listening, learning, and building trust. We’ll explore the person’s history, current concerns, and hopes for the future. We may recommend further assessment or begin planning practical next steps, whether for a child, an adult, or a broader system, such as a school, work or family.

4. Do you diagnose conditions like ADHD, Autism, or Anxiety?

Yes, we do provide diagnostic assessments, but at Navigate Psychology, diagnosis is never the end point. Our focus is on understanding the whole person—their strengths, needs, and context—and using this insight to guide meaningful, evidence-based support.

5. Will therapy be recommended, or are there other options?

Therapy may be one part of a broader support plan. We also offer:

• Parent or caregiver coaching
• Practical strategies for managing emotions, behaviour, or learning
• Collaboration with schools, workplaces, or other services
• Workshops and tailored interventions for individuals, families, or organisations

We aim to match the right kind of support to each person’s goals and situation.

6. How long does support usually take?

This varies. Some people benefit from short-term input (e.g. 6–8 sessions), while others need more ongoing involvement. We review progress regularly and adapt the plan to ensure it stays relevant and effective.

7. Do you work with schools, workplaces, or other professionals?

Yes—collaboration is at the heart of our approach. We work alongside educators, health professionals, support workers, and organisational leaders to create joined-up, wraparound support for individuals and systems.

8. Can we get an assessment without therapy?

Yes, we can. However, we do not often suggest this. Instead, we integrate assessment into a broader support framework, ensuring that insights lead to real, practical change.

9. How do we get started?

Our process is simple and relational:

Connect & Understand – Contact us to schedule an initial consultation to discuss your concerns and goals.

Assess & Plan – If needed, we use tools and conversations to deepen understanding and co-create a plan.

Support & Grow – Through therapy, coaching, or collaboration, we walk alongside you to support change and growth.