Angela Claridge | Counsellor

Counselling Kapiti Coast - Paraparaumu - Raumati Beach

My name is Angela Claridge. I have over 15 years experience in the mental health sector. I’m a member of the dapaanz (Drug and Alcohol Practitioners Association of New Zealand).

From my practice Angela Claridge Wellness on the Kapiti Coast, I support people to positively and proactively address stuck points, distress and disruptive behaviours in their lives, to enable them to live fully, regain control and find joy.

At the core of my client-centred practice is a heart for others and a desire to connect with people as they confront the challenges that lead them to present to a counsellor. Sharing these moments of often exquisite vulnerability in people’s lives is an incredible privilege, one I don’t take lightly.

I have a solid belief in other’s abilities to problem solve and overcome, drawing from my own personal experiences and comprehensive professional training I am able to offer both unique insight and an empathic, non judgmental space for people to explore their difficulties.

I work with a solution and strengths-based focus and my work is guided by cognitive behavioural theory. I find that practicing from this perspective is both hopeful and respectful. It is from within these collaborative partnerships that clients benefit greatly.

You can contact me regarding:

Personal counselling

Stressed out? Feeling stuck? Need support to work through life's challenges? 

My service can assist with issues such as:

•       Addiction

•       Anger management 

•       Anxiety

•       Assertiveness 

•       Depression 

•       Frustration 

•       Life changes and transitions 

•       Life crisis 

•       Personal or emotional problems 

•       Relationship or family issues 

•       Self Esteem and confidence  

•       Social stressors 

•       Stress management  

Career experience

I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Counselling and a Post Graduate Certificate in Health Science - Mental Health and Addictions. I am a member of dapaanz. I work as a Counsellor. In my practice I offer individual, relationship and family counselling.

Previous work experience includes offering personal Counselling services within the health and wellness centre at a university, faith based Counselling with a Christian based service, offering short term interventions to victims of crime with Victim Support and providing a full range of services in an outpatient setting with the nationwide alcohol and drug service provider, NGO Care NZ.

In my role with Care NZ I completed comprehensive alcohol and other drug assessment, providing formal assessment and recommendation reports for Court proceedings, individual therapy, group therapy and education, counselling and support for those affected by other’s alcohol and other drug use.

In addition to my clinical services I also facilitated (via a contract with Care NZ) group alcohol, drugs and fatigue focused driving education sessions to groups of 15/16 year old students as part of the nationwide Rotary Youth Driver Awareness (RYDA) programme.

Nowadays my general counselling practice can assist you in Kapiti where I live with my four children.