Counselling Support at Encompass Health

A cancer diagnosis is a major life event that can significantly impact mental health, and it’s completely understandable for an individual and their loved ones to experience complex emotions during this time.

There are many factors that influence how an individual and their whānau respond psychologically. Our counselling team works hard to create a safe space where people can express and process whatever they need to at this difficult time.

The team at Encompass Health are passionate, experienced professionals with diverse training in both Māori and Western models of health, tailoring care to meet individual and cultural needs.

While the relationship between counsellor and client is the strongest predictor of effective therapy, there are several research-based approaches our team draws from to support clients:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps individuals understand the connection between beliefs, thoughts, and feelings, and how these influence behaviour. It teaches strategies to manage the distress that can come with a cancer diagnosis and the changes it brings.

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) supports individuals to navigate and tolerate strong emotions, especially during times of heightened stress. The skills taught can help people manage the emotional and psychological impact of cancer.

Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT) is a brief, client-centred approach that highlights an individual’s strengths and resources to create desired change. It helps clients focus on what matters most to them and how they want to live following their diagnosis.

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) uses simple techniques to engage the body’s natural restorative response. When practiced over time, these strategies can help reduce racing thoughts, increase calm and perspective, and enhance overall wellbeing.

Focused Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (FACT) is a brief therapy model based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). It helps clients manage distressing thoughts, emotions, or symptoms, and commit to small, meaningful changes that improve their wellbeing.