Child & Family Counsellor

Child & Family Counsellor Full-Time | Permanent | Visa Sponsorship AvailableLocation: Queenstown or Christchurch, New Zealand
Employment Type: Full-Time (32–40 hours per week)
Salary Range: NZD $90,000 – $110,000 per year (based on qualifications, experience, and hours in contract)
Employer: The Therapy Project Ltd About the RoleThe Therapy Project is seeking a compassionate and experienced Child & Family Counsellor to join our multidisciplinary mental health team in Queenstown or Christchurch. This role involves providing therapeutic support to children, adolescents, and their families using evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with whānau, schools, agencies, and community supports to promote emotional wellbeing and resilience in young people.This position qualifies for Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) sponsorship and aligns with ANZSCO Code 272114 – Counsellor/Psychotherapist. Key Responsibilities

• Deliver individual and family counselling for children and youth experiencing emotional, behavioural, or developmental challenges.
• Conduct comprehensive psychosocial assessments, formulation, and treatment planning.
• Use age-appropriate modalities such as play therapy, CBT, ACT, art/creative therapies, narrative or attachment-based therapy.
• Provide parenting support and guidance to caregivers and whānau.
• Maintain accurate case notes, risk assessments, and reports in compliance with professional standards.
• Collaborate with schools, Oranga Tamariki, healthcare providers, and external agencies.
• Participate in clinical supervision, team meetings, and professional development.
• Contribute to group programmes, early intervention initiatives, or community workshops.

Skills & Experience Required

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Counselling, Social Work, Psychology, Psychotherapy, or related discipline.
• Full or Provisional Registration (or eligibility) with NZAC, NZAP, SWRB, or equivalent recognised body.
• Minimum 3 years’ post-graduate experience working therapeutically with children, adolescents, and families (international experience considered).
• Knowledge of trauma-informed, strengths-based and culturally safe practice.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to build rapport with tamariki, rangatahi, and their whānau.
• Understanding of New Zealand child protection standards and safeguarding practices.

Personal Qualities

• Empathetic, warm, and child-centred.
• Collaborative team player with strong ethical values.
• Organised, professional, and committed to reflective practice.
• Open to innovation and programme development.

Remuneration & Employment Conditions

• Salary/Contract Range: $90,000 – $110,000 per annum (or equivalent contractor rate), depending on experience and registration.
• Hours: Full-time (30–40 hours per week), flexible scheduling available.
• Location: Queenstown or Christchurch, New Zealand.
• Benefits: Clinical supervision provided, professional development support, collaborative team environment, opportunity to live and work in a world-renowned lifestyle destination.

Visa & Registration Requirements

• This role is suitable for Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) sponsorship.
• Applicants must hold, or be eligible to obtain, professional registration in New Zealand (NZAC, NZAP, SWRB, or equivalent).
• Assistance with relocation and registration process is available for the right candidate.

About The Therapy ProjectThe Therapy Project is a private counselling and wellness practice in Queenstown, offering counselling, somatic therapy, trauma recovery, youth support, and community wellbeing programmes. We are expanding our services to Christchurch and are looking for talented, passionate clinicians to join our team. We are committed to culturally safe care, inclusivity, and supporting long-term wellbeing in our region. Visa & AccreditationThe Therapy Project is an Accredited Employer with Immigration New Zealand and can support work visa applications for eligible overseas candidates. How to ApplyPlease submit the following via Indeed:

• CV / Resume
• Cover letter outlining experience with children/families & therapeutic approach
• Current or eligible professional registration details

Learn more: www.therapyproject.co.nzJob Type: Full-timePay: $90,000.00 – $110,000.00 per yearBenefits:

• Professional development assistance
• Travel reimbursement
• Visa sponsorship

Work Location: In person