Willowburn Counselling

Welcome to Willowburn Counselling, a trusted institution offering a range of counselling services in New Zealand. Located at Okuku, Birch Hill Road, 291, our establishment is dedicated to promoting health and well-being as a point of interest in the community.

At Willowburn Counselling, we specialize in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, catering to individuals, children, and couples. Whether you are seeking support for addictions, building confidence, managing grief and trauma, or navigating relationship issues, our qualified counsellor, Johanna Capill, is here to help.

With over 15 years of experience, Johanna believes that we are all relational beings and that connection with others is essential for personal growth and healing. Drawing on various counselling modalities, including EFT, Gestalt therapy, Person-centred, Narrative, Solution Focused, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Johanna tailors her approach to meet your specific needs.

What sets Willowburn Counselling apart is our unique integration of horses and ponies in the counselling process. Located in a rural setting, our practice utilizes Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) to create a safe and holistic experience. The presence of these majestic animals invites a response from you, leading to new experiences and discoveries.

Through EAP, the practitioner and the horse become the safe others, encouraging the development of new neurological pathways in the brain. This innovative approach allows you to explore emotions, relationship patterns, and early life experiences in a supportive environment.

During the recent pandemic, we have adapted our counselling services to be effective through online platforms when in-person sessions are not possible. We believe that everyone should have access to quality counselling, regardless of their circumstances.

At Willowburn Counselling, your safety and well-being are our top priorities. You are never forced to do anything that doesn't feel safe, and Johanna's goal is to empower you to make choices that are beneficial for your personal growth.

Johanna's passion for horses extends beyond counselling. With a lifelong love for these magnificent creatures, she also offers horse riding lessons, fostering a deeper connection between individuals and horses.

As a member of professional associations such as the International Centre for Excellence Community in Emotionally Focused Therapy and the Equine Psychotherapy Institute, Johanna is committed to staying updated with the latest practices in the field. She also receives regular supervision to ensure the highest standards of care.

If you are looking for a compassionate and experienced counsellor in New Zealand, look no further than Willowburn Counselling. Contact us today to embark on your journey towards healing and personal growth.