Josh Bennison
NZAC
Region: Dunedin
Provider Type: Counsellor
Specialities: Internal Family / Whānau Systems, Family / Whānau Therapy, Takatāpui Rainbow Friendly, Drug & Alcohol, Rangatahi / Youth, Tamarki / Children, Te Ao Māori, Prisoners, Disability, Neurodiverse, Online, Face to Face, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Health System Navigation, Play Therapy, Adventure Therapy
Introduction
Kia ora, I’m Josh. I am a counsellor committed to supporting people on their journey toward balance, wellbeing, and personal growth. I strive to create a safe, genuine, and therapeutic space where people feel understood and supported as they move through both the joys and challenges of life. I also work in partnership with Dunedin Adventures as an Adventure Therapist.
My approach to counselling draws on Person-Centred Counselling, Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Te Whare Tapa Whā, addiction theory, attachment theory, and trauma-informed practice. I also strive to help people understand the science behind trauma; I believe that understanding how the brain and nervous system respond to trauma is a key component of healing.
In my work as an Adventure Therapist, I support people in developing a secure attachment to the whenua (land). A secure connection to nature can help regulate the nervous system, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Other aspects of adventure therapy, such as rock-climbing sessions, can also help us recognise, understand, and manage our fight, flight, and freeze responses.
Qualifications
- Registered with New Zealand Association of Counsellors
- Bachelor of Social Service and Counselling (Otago Polytechnic)
- Diploma in Outdoor Leadership and Management (Otago Polytechnic)
- New Zealand Outdoor Instructors Association: Rock 1, Bush 1
- New Zealand Mountain Guides Association, Hard Ice Guide
Experience
- ACC accredited: 2025
- Registered Business: Health In Mind: 2026
- School Guidance Counsellor: 2024 – 2026
- Kowhai Centre: 2021 - 2023
- Youth Line (face to face): 2022
- Moana House: 2021
- Peel Forest Outdoor Pursuits Centre: 2016 - 2021
- Ngai Tahu Tourism: 2014 -2023
- Dunedin Adventures: 2013 – 2026
- Alpine Guides: 2015 – 2018