Tired of living in your head?
I work with overthinkers, people pleasers, and ADHDers who look fine on the outside but feel quietly exhausted on the inside. Together, we'll work toward your most authentic self – the one who feels grounded in their emotions, secure in their relationships, and confident in themselves.
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200+
People supported
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3,000+
Hours of counselling sessions
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Average Google review (20+)
Hi, I’m Ben
I'm a Mount Maunganui-based counsellor with a Master's in Counselling. In our work together, you'll learn practical tools to quiet mental noise, regulate your emotions, and transform your harsh inner critic into a kinder voice. Rather than focusing on what's "wrong" with you, we'll reconnect you with your most authentic, compassionate, and confident self.
Our sessions offer a warm, relaxed space where you can slow down, breathe, and simply be yourself – no need to be "on." I use an evidence-based, holistic approach to support your wellbeing, but what matters most is that you feel genuinely seen, heard, and free to be yourself.
Together, we'll unpack patterns of anxiety, stress, and self-doubt. Perhaps you've spent years managing everyone else's emotions while your own needs were pushed aside. You'll develop tools to stay present with your feelings, build healthier connections, and genuinely trust yourself.
Counselling is a collaborative conversation about moving toward your best self – which means exploring both the challenges and the solutions. Sessions are held online via Google Meet. You can learn more about my approach here.
What I help with
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Anxiety & Overthinking
Breaking free from worry loops, perfectionism, and that relentless inner critic. Learning to quiet the noise and build real self-compassion.
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Confidence & People Pleasing
Strengthening confidence from within, setting boundaries, and stepping out of emotional caretaking. Building more secure relationships.
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ADHD
Building systems that work with your brain. Finding focus without shame, managing overwhelm, and rebuilding self-trust.
Counselling that feels like a real conversation
Sessions feel warm, down-to-earth, and honest. We'll meet somewhere comfortable (my office in The Mount or online) and go at a pace that feels right for you. We’ll talk not just about the patterns you experience, but also the patterns you create.
I'm big on celebrating client wins and keeping things real. Sometimes I'm listening deeply, sometimes offering a fresh perspective, sometimes there's even a good laugh. Most clients leave feeling lighter – like something clicked and they can breathe easier again.
Sessions are 50 minutes. Most people work with me for 6+ sessions. That's where the real shift happens.
You don't have to wait until you're falling apart to deserve support. If you're ready to live life fully and compassionately with awareness, reach out.
You’re welcome here – whoever you are and whatever your background, beliefs, or spiritual bend. Kotahitanga ~ unity. ✨
When I'm not working, you'll find me surfing, exploring nature, travelling with my fiancée, reading, or catching up with family and friends over a laugh and cuppa.
What people say about our work together
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“Counselling was never for me.. until I met Ben. To meet someone so genuinely interested in helping you to develop in all aspects of life is something I will be forever grateful for. I continue to become the best version of myself with his help and I couldn’t recommend his services enough. Thanks for all your hard work and help over the years.”
– Elliot. -
“What can I say about the gift of having Ben in my corner. He consistently makes it onto my gratitude list and for very good reason. From the very outset of working with him I felt safe and heard. It really feels like a collaboration, and I often have actionable takeaways to keep me moving forward. Ben has a great sense of humour and a beautiful empathetic way of leading our sessions.”
– Jenny. -
“Ben is incredible. He creates a safe, supportive space where I feel truly heard and understood. His insight and compassion have helped me grow in ways I never expected. I’m so grateful for his guidance—highly recommend!”
– Jamie.
Ready to start?
You don't have to wait until you're falling apart to deserve support. If you’re ready to live life fully and compassionately, reach out.
Send me a brief email about what's going on for you right now. Even just a few lines is fine – we'll figure out the rest together.
Email: ben@chatwithben.co.nz
Location: Sessions are held online via Google Meet.