Dr Joanna Macfarlane (MNZCCP)
Joanna is a clinical psychologist working with survivors of sexual trauma, and those who have developed a mental injury as a result of a physical accident; the NZ Police, and victims or whānau of victims of crime. She is based in West Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand.
About me
I am a clinical psychologist based out of a private practice in the heart of New Lynn, West Auckland. I am Cognitive Behaviourally trained, and use this alongside Internal Family Systems, ACT, EMDR, Schema Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing and elements of DBT in my practice. I am ACC Sensitive Claims and Psychological Services registered and I work primarily with adults. I also have a keen interest in treating the mental health of older adults. I am a member of the New Zealand College of Clinical Psychologists, a Committee Member of the Auckland Branch of the NZCCP and an Associate Member of EMDR NZ.
I am passionate about continuing my own education and knowledge within the mental health world through research and teaching. I teach a paper on CBT at the Auckland University of Technology (AUT) as part of the Bachelor of Health Science - Counselling major. I recently assisted on a research project that the Department of Psychological Medicine - Auckland University was undertaking; looking at how Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) delivered in groups may impact on loneliness in older people. I am also a Senior Researcher at AUT investigating the neuro diversity of male prison inmates.
Some of my recent research outputs:
April 2024:
October 2019:
Intergenerational exchange and the possibilities of role substitution for older people
My kaupapa
I trained to become a clinical psychologist after a long career in corporate communications. My goal in retraining was to undertake a meaningful role in the community I live in and work with those that need mental health support, but whom do not have the means to get access to it. I accept referrals for clients that meet criteria for ACC Sensitive Claims or ACC Psychological Services (mental injury from a physical accident); referrals from the NZ Police, or if you are seeking help through Victim Support. As this is the focus of my work I don't accept private referrals. If you are not sure whether you are eligible for either of these pathways, please get in touch and I can help figure that out with you.
“I'm not sure how to begin really, other than, that in the time I have known Joanna I was able to trust, change and grow in a gigantic way, truly.
The trust level that we had together I have never had before in my entire life. This trust relationship has allowed me, at age 54, to trust not only my wonderful new husband of almost six years, but allowed me to form new friendships in our new community.
Joanna truly allowed me to be me, as we transitioned through my journey together. I went through valleys and mountains with Joanna's calm spirit helping me to grow and let go. I am much stronger because of Joanna.”
– European woman in her 50s
I wanted to say a huge thank you for all your help in getting me through a really tough time in my life and helping me process the trauma I have been through. I am extremely grateful. I am now seeing things in a much better light and have a much better outlook. Now I can focus on the future and not feel like a victim but a survivor.
New Zealand Pākeha in her early 30s
Testimonials
“Just wanted to say thank you very much for the two sessions that we had. You have been by far the most knowledgeable, helpful and relatable therapist I have had :)”
– Asian male in his 20s
“Joanna’s kindness and consideration, and sensitivity for my wellbeing, has enabled me to gain confidence and self respect which I have lacked for most of my life.
I no longer fear the negative downward spirals my mind would engulf me with.”
– 80 year old Pākeha woman
You may have experienced trauma in the past, or more recently, that you notice is impacting on your ability to engage fully with your life today. It can be challenging to take the step to seek help for this, but I offer a supportive, collaborative and safe environment to work towards your wellness. Our work together is a journey; sometimes the scenery is wonderful other times the therapeutic road is challenging terrain. The journey I hope to encourage is collaborative and to that end, we will regularly check in with each other to ensure that the path we are on is the right one for you.