Nicky Buist Child & Family Therapist

Nicky’s pathway into therapeutic work has grown from a lifelong passion for supporting children, young people and their whānau.

With nearly two decades of experience across education and child wellbeing, she brings a strong understanding of how learning, behaviour and emotions are interconnected and how important it is for tamariki and families to feel genuinely understood and supported.

She began her career in early childhood education and later retrained as a primary teacher after becoming a parent to three children, two of whom are neurodiverse.

This combination of lived experience and professional training gives her a grounded perspective on the challenges many families navigate in the education system.

Nicky has held a range of roles including SENCO, Learning Support Coordinator and school counsellor, supporting children with anxiety, behavioural and emotional regulation difficulties. She holds a Master of Education and a Master of Counselling and is currently completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

In her practice, Nicky provides behaviour support and counselling for children, young people, families/caregivers and educators.

Her approach is practical and compassionate, grounded in CBT and shaped by curiosity and connection.

Nicky aims to help people make sense of their experiences, develop strategies that work for them and build confidence in managing life’s challenges.