About sanford psychology

Sanford Psychology provides compassionate, individualised support for children, adolescents, and their families. With a strong foundation in education and psychology, we offer therapy that is culturally responsive, neurodiversity-affirming, and grounded in respect for each person’s unique strengths and story.

Empowering YOUNG PEOPLE to live their best lives

At Sanford Psychology, we believe every person deserves the chance to live a connected, empowered, and fulfilling life. Our mission is to support children, adolescents, and their whānau with warmth, respect, and practical strategies that foster real growth.

We believe in a holistic approach to practice and do this through tailored therapy sessions, whānau support and consultations with schools and/or educators.

Learn more about our services...

Meet Abi

Educational & Developmental Psychologist / Kaimātai Hauora Hinengaro
Based in Pāpāmoa + Cambridge + Online

Abi is passionate about supporting tamariki, rangatahi, and their whānau to thrive. With an extensive academic background in psychology and education, she combines strong theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. Before starting her career in Psychology, Abi worked as a school teacher aide, preschool relief teacher, and youth mentor - roles that shaped her deep respect for young people and their unique ways of engaging with the world.

Taking an ecological and strengths-based approach in all that she does, Abi values collaboration and developing practical strategies that are tailored to empower individuals and their whānau. She uses a range of evidence-based approaches tailored to each person’s needs - including play-based therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Abi is dedicated to creating a supportive and understanding space where individuals feel seen, heard, and equipped with tools to navigate life’s challenges.

If you, or someone you care about is looking for support, connect with Abi today. You are not alone.

ready to see how we can help you or your young person?

Contact Abi Today

Sanford psychology pillars

These guiding principles shape everything we do. At the heart of Sanford Psychology is a commitment to honouring each child’s individuality, fostering safe relationships, and offering meaningful, inclusive support for whānau and their wider community

Neurodiversity-Affirming Support

Empowering children and young people to understand, embrace, and thrive in their neurodiverse identities. We view differences in thinking and being not as deficits, but as strengths to be celebrated.

Therapeutic Tools & Resources

We're committed to offering practical, evidence-informed tools that young people - and the adults who support them - can use in everyday life. This includes strategies for parents, teachers, and professionals supporting neurodiverse and/or trauma-impacted tamariki.

Emotional Regulation & Values-Based Living

Supporting young people to build emotional awareness, learn how to navigate big feelings, and make choices guided by their personal values and sense of identity.

Safe, Culturally Respectful Relationships

Relationships are at the heart of healing. We honour the interconnectedness of rangatahi, their whānau, and their environments, and we are committed to culturally responsive, mana-enhancing practice.

Identity, Inclusion & Celebrating Strengths

Sanford Psychology is a safe and affirming space for LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse young people. We celebrate individuality, encourage self-expression, and foster joy in being exactly who you are.

Trauma-Informed Practice

We recognise the widespread impact of trauma and prioritise safety, trust, and empowerment in every interaction. Our approach is sensitive to each individual’s history, helping create a supportive environment where healing and growth can flourish.