Tailored Therapy sessions for children, adolescents + supporting adults
A Safe space for Young People to Be, heal + Grow
All of you is welcome here
Tēnā koe, I’m Abi Sanford
Registered Educational and Developmental Psychologist [NZ]
Whether you’re here as a parent, teacher, or young person yourself - I’m so glad you found your way here. You're not alone.
I work alongside children, teens, and their whānau to create gentle, supportive spaces where young people feel truly seen, safe, and celebrated for who they are.
My approach is grounded in kindness, connection, and curiosity. It's neurodiversity-affirming, trauma-informed, and identity-celebrating - always shaped with the young person and their world in mind.
At the heart of my work is the belief that relationships heal, and that every rangatahi is an ecological being - deeply connected to their environments, their values, their whānau, and their inner worlds. When we honour those connections, true transformation becomes possible.
My Work Often Supports
Autistic and neurodivergent children and teens
Emotional regulation, behaviour, and sensory needs
LGBTQIA+ rangatahi navigating identity and belonging
Whānau and school teams seeking guidance and clarity
Anyone feeling a little lost in how to best support a young person they care about
Our Services
Individual Support for Children & Adolescents
Collaborative, therapeutic work with young people aged 5-25 years old - focused on emotional wellbeing, behaviour support, identity development, and mental health. Sessions are always adapted to meet the young person where they're at, using play-based, creative, or conversational methods.
Whānau support + behavioural guidance
Supporting caregivers to better understand and respond to their child's needs. Together we’ll explore what’s happening beneath the behaviour and co-develop practical, compassionate plans that align with your family’s values and strengths.
School + educator consultations
Collaborative work with teachers and school teams to strengthen the support system around each learner. My approach promotes psychological safety, inclusive practice, and practical strategies for the classroom.
How it Works
We will discuss the changes you wish to see and how I might be able to support you.
Create A Plan Together
We will set goals and create a roadmap to help you reach your goals.
Experience Positive Changes
We’ll implement proven strategies and identify specific steps to empower you and create the life you truly desire!
FAQs
Find answers to commonly asked questions about Psychology and our services.
What Is therapy?
Therapy is a supportive and confidential space where individuals can express their thoughts and feelings, explore their inner experiences, and gain deeper self-understanding. It offers the opportunity to work through challenges and collaboratively plan for meaningful, positive change in a safe and respectful environment.
How long do sessions last for?
Therapy sessions typically run for 45 to 55 minutes. This allows time for the therapist to reflect and take notes after the session. If you feel that a longer session would be helpful, extended appointments can be arranged in advance.
What are the benefits of therapy?
Therapy can help you gain deeper self-awareness, improve your mindset, strengthen communication skills, and support meaningful personal growth. Alongside the work we do in sessions, lasting change often comes from what happens in between. You may be offered helpful (and sometimes fun!) tasks to try outside of sessions, so you can keep building insights and incorporating skills into your everyday life.
What do sessions cost?
A standard session (45–55 minutes) is charged at $180 (including GST). Longer sessions can be arranged at a different rate if needed. If cost is a concern, please feel free to reach out - we can discuss options together.
Do you offer assessments for ADHD, Autism or specific learning challenges?
Sanford Psychology does not currently offer formal diagnostic assessments however we can help guide you toward trusted providers who do. Above all, our goal is to create a safe and supportive space where individuals and families feel heard, understood, and empowered.
Do you work with people over the age of 25?
While Sanford Psychology specialises in supporting young people aged 25 and under, the practice is equipped with the training and experience to work with individuals of all ages. If you're over 25 and wondering whether we’re the right fit, please feel free to reach out, we’d be happy to discuss your specific needs.
Clients I've Worked with
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John Doe
Teacher
What ever yu want here
John Doe
Teacher
Abi is awesome
John Doe
Teacher
Book a Free consult with abi
For yourself or a young person in your life. Let’s jump on a quick 15min call to see how we can work together to create meaningful change.
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