Shelley Durkin Zintl
Rebecca Van Velzen
I am a registered Psychologist living and working in Blenheim. The counselling and assessment work I usually undertake is trauma (including ACC sensitive claims), depression, suicidal thoughts, addictions, conflict, child learning assessment, general child counselling.
In my spare time I look after my toddler aged son, try to grow some of my own vegetables, go on walks/hikes and read novels
Occupational Therapist
Emma Jackson
I’m Emma, Mental Health OT, wife and Mum to 3 busy, noisy boys! Between home life and private practice, I enjoy exploring nature with my kids, pottering in my garden, and finding op-shop treasures.
Work-wise, I have spent the last 13 years working in various mental health settings, including Child, Adolescent and Family work, mothers and babies, and more recently working with adults in the workplace support space.
After a traumatic event, all sorts of life domains and activities can be affected. Sleep, work, relationships, routines, even doing the shopping or keeping on top of the washing can become a challenge. Occupational Therapists (OTs) have a holistic, dynamic and strategic outlook, and can work with individuals to create goals around and achieve the a variety of improvements.
You can find out more about Emma and her online practice at her website: http://www.compass-ot.com/about
Registered Dietitian
Lucy Carey
Lucy specializes in nutrition for teen athletes, disordered eating, lifestyle medicine, and feeding kids.
She did ballet in her hometown of New Plymouth till she was 18 years old, dancing to the Advanced II level and becoming an artistic member of the IDTA. She therefore knows first-hand the challenges dancers face. She regularly works one-on-one with young athletes and their parents, and holds nutrition seminars at dance studios.
She can see clients face to face in Christchurch, and through tele-health in other locations.
You can find out more about Lucy at http://www.eattypelive.com
Social Worker
Karen McCarthy
I am a dedicated and well-connected registered social worker based in Blenheim, with over seventeen years of experience supporting clients and whānau across diverse social work settings. My professional journey has ranged from child protection, addiction, homeless, health and disability, mental health, and Māori social services, each role deepening my commitment to collaborative, culturally responsive practice.
At the heart of my work is a strong focus on safety and well-being. I am passionate about walking alongside individuals and whānau as they navigate life’s challenges, offering compassionate, expert support tailored to their unique needs and aspirations. I prioritise connection and empowerment, creating spaces where people feel safe, heard, and valued.I bring a trauma-informed lens to my practice and take genuine pride in helping clients recognise their strengths and realise their full potential. Working in partnership with families, communities, and fellow professionals is central to how I support positive, sustainable outcomes.
The Independent Psychological Service 