Anxiety Counselling in Christchurch

When anxiety takes hold, it feels overwhelming—racing thoughts, constant worry, and that sense that you're always on edge. But you don't have to face it alone.

At Winchester Counselling, I provide specialised anxiety counselling in Christchurch to help you understand and manage your anxiety. I offer a safe, supportive space where we'll work together to develop practical strategies that bring lasting calm and confidence back into your life.

Looking for counselling near you for anxiety and depression? Contact Winchester Counselling today to book a session.

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Is Anxiety Holding You Back?

People who need stress treatment often find themselves backed into a corner, unable to do the things that they used to love because they are afraid of failing, of going outside, or of living honestly. Most of the time, these anxious beliefs are based on an irrational set of thoughts, built up over time, and then strengthened by behaviours.

If any of this sounds like you, then you might be experiencing a lot of stress or anxiety. While short-term periods of stress are a normal part of life, persistently feeling anxious or being unable to reduce your stress levels is not. That’s where anxiety therapy comes into play.

Recognising the Signs of Unhealthy Stress and Anxiety

Anxiety doesn't always look the same, and it's not always easy to tell the difference between a normal, stressful day and the kind of reactions that indicate a problem. There are many types of anxiety disorders that come with a diagnosis, so they don't always feel the same. Common signs and symptoms of anxiety include:

A Breakdown of Anxiety Therapy and Stress Treatment 

Implementing coping strategies, new thought patterns, and developing a robust sense of self are important when dealing with anxiety. Seeing a therapist for anxiety and depression can consist of a lot of things, and the techniques vary according to the problems the person is experiencing and the methods of therapy used.

For example, someone struggling with a phobia might use exposure therapy (gradually getting used to the fear), whereas someone else might create specific strategies for stress management.

Our Approach

At Winchester Counselling, we approach talking therapy from the perspective of the client, building up their coping mechanisms and uprooting unhealthy thoughts.

As an experienced anxiety therapist near you serving the greater Christchurch area, I use four complementary approaches to help people learn to deal with chronic stress and anxiety: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT is an evidence-based approach to treating anxiety disorders as well as symptoms of stress. It focuses on helping people to open themselves up to unpleasant feelings while learning to cope with them in a rational, calm, and helpful way.

Instead of trying to get rid of the feelings entirely, a counsellor for depression and anxiety works with people to create a flexible mindset that can deal with emotional upheaval, which is a much better long-term strategy for managing stress.

Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT)

EFIT is a science-based approach that helps clients understand the emotional patterns underlying their anxiety. It focuses on exploring how emotions shape your experiences and relationships, guiding you to identify the triggers that fuel anxiety and discover what you need to feel safe and secure.

Rather than focusing only on symptoms, EFIT helps you process difficult past experiences with self-compassion while building a stronger connection with yourself and others. I’ll help you explore your story and the patterns that may be keeping you stuck, helping you move toward greater confidence and emotional security.

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

SFBT offers a practical, forward-looking approach to anxiety that builds on your existing strengths. Rather than dwelling on what’s wrong, we focus on what’s possible. We’ll explore what life looks like when anxiety is less present and identify the times when you’re already coping more effectively.

Through SFBT, we use simple scaling questions to track progress, identify your strengths and support networks, and set achievable goals based on what you want to gain. It’s an efficient and empowering approach to developing a stronger sense of control, building confidence in managing challenges, and experiencing greater calm and resilience in daily life.

Motivational Interviewing (MI)

Motivational Interviewing (MI) for anxiety is a collaborative approach that supports people who feel stuck with anxiety—wanting change, but feeling unsure or conflicted about how to move forward. It recognises that ambivalence is a normal part of anxiety and provides a calm, non-judgmental space to explore what matters most to you, reducing the shame and self-criticism that often accompany anxiety.

Rather than being told what to do, we focus on identifying your own motivations for change and building your confidence in your ability to cope. Through reflective dialogue, affirmations, and collaborative goal setting, Motivational Interviewing supports gradual, meaningful progress, helping you feel more empowered, capable of change, and better equipped to manage anxiety over time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need professional help for my anxiety?

If anxiety is affecting your daily life, such as interfering with work, relationships, or sleep, it’s time to find support. You don’t need to wait until things are unbearable. If you’re already asking this question, reaching out for professional help is likely a worthwhile step.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a therapist for anxiety and depression?

No! If you’re searching for an anxiety therapist near you, there’s no need for a doctor’s referral to book an appointment. You can contact me directly to book a session, and we’ll arrange a consultation time that suits you.

How many therapy sessions will I need to address my anxiety?

Everyone's journey with anxiety is unique. And that includes how long therapy takes to work. Some people start feeling better after just a handful of sessions, while others find they benefit from ongoing support over a longer period.

When we first meet, we'll talk about what's going on for you and what you're hoping to achieve. This will help give you a clearer sense of what your pathway may look like.

Navigate Anxiety and Depression with Andrew Winchester

I’m Andrew Winchester, and I bring over 25 years of specialised experience in helping local residents navigate anxiety and stress. Located on Bealey Avenue in Christchurch, I’m a full member of the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT) and the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC). I am committed to providing evidence-based anxiety therapy that creates real, lasting change.

My approach combines proven therapeutic methods with a deep understanding of how anxiety affects every aspect of your life. Whether you’re dealing with generalised anxiety, panic, or chronic stress, I provide personalised support tailored to your goals.

Talk to Someone About Your Anxiety

Winchester Counselling is a professional provider of anxiety counselling in Christchurch, helping people pave their own way forward. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, overwhelming stress, or any other kind of mental health problem, it needs to be talked about. Book with us today.

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 “Very impressed, extremely easy to talk to, put at ease, very hopeful, thank you so much Andrew” - anon client