Embrace
the possibility of a
brighter future
Take that courageous step and try your first online session for free!
Embrace the possibility of a
brighter future
Take that courageous step and try your first online session for free!
Compassionate, trauma-informed counselling in Auckland and online. I’m here to support you.
Hello, I’m Karen Bernal
Life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming and isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I offer a safe, compassionate, and culturally sensitive space where you can explore your experiences, understand your emotions, and discover effective ways to move forward with clarity and confidence.
With over 14 years of experience in mental health, I am committed to helping you feel heard, validated, and empowered.
Originally trained as a clinical psychologist in Chile, I am now a registered counsellor with NZAC in New Zealand. I am an ACC Sensitive Claims provider, and my approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs, blending evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Psychodynamic Therapy to support your personal growth.
I offer sessions in both English and Spanish, ensuring that language and cultural background are never barriers to healing. My goal is to help you build resilience, gain self-awareness, and create meaningful change in your life.
I truly believe that transformation begins with self-exploration, and I would be honored to walk this journey with you.
Want to learn more about my professional background?
What You Can Expect When
Working With Me
Approachability &
Empathy
You're not alone—I'm here to listen and understand.
Commitment &
Professionalism
Guiding you with care, respect, and dedication.
Deep Reflection &
Analysis
Helping you explore, understand, and grow
Confidential, Judgement-Free & Safe Space
A place where you can be yourself, freely and safely
Counselling Services
I offer a variety of counselling services to support
your emotional well-being and personal growth:
Trauma can continue to affect how safe, connected, or in control you feel, even long after the experience has passed. Together, we’ll make sense of these responses and develop strategies that support healing at a pace that feels safe for you. ACC Sensitive Claims support is available. Read more here
If stress and anxiety are overwhelming you, I provide a confidential, non-judgmental space to explore the roots of your stress. We’ll work through negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies to empower you to live more fully. Read more here
Life can feel overwhelming when you’re navigating change or trying to meet expectations about who you “should” be. Together, we’ll explore these pressures and create space for what truly matters to you, helping you reconnect with your authentic self. Read more here
Adjusting to a new country can bring mixed emotions—joy and grief. I offer support in navigating these challenges, helping you process migrant grief and build resilience as you adjust to new surroundings and experiences. Read more here
Whether it's friendships, romantic partnerships or building healthy family dynamics, I’ll support you in building and maintaining meaningful relationships by exploring underlying emotions and providing practical tools for better communication and connection. Read more here
Sexual trauma can affect your sense of safety, relationships and everyday life. I offer culturally sensitive, trauma-informed support to help you understand, manage difficult emotions and reconnect with yourself—at a pace that feels right for you. Support is available through private counselling or ACC-funded Sensitive Claims sessions. Read more here
Counselling Services
I offer a variety of counselling services to support
your emotional well-being and personal growth:
Trauma can continue to affect how safe, connected, or in control you feel, even long after the experience has passed. Together, we’ll make sense of these responses and develop strategies that support healing at a pace that feels safe for you. ACC Sensitive Claims support is available. Read more here
If stress and anxiety are overwhelming you, I provide a confidential, non-judgmental space to explore the roots of your stress. We’ll work through negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies to empower you to live more fully. Read more here
Life can feel overwhelming when you’re navigating change or trying to meet expectations about who you “should” be. Together, we’ll explore these pressures and create space for what truly matters to you, helping you reconnect with your authentic self. Read more here
Adjusting to a new country can bring mixed emotions—joy and grief. I offer support in navigating these challenges, helping you process migrant grief and build resilience as you adjust to new surroundings and experiences. Read more here
Sexual trauma can affect your sense of safety, relationships and everyday life. I offer culturally sensitive, trauma-informed support to help you understand these responses, manage difficult emotions and reconnect with yourself—at a pace that feels right for you. Support is available through private counselling or ACC-funded Sensitive Claims sessions. Read more here
Experiences of counselling:
See What’s Possible
L– Finding Independence & A New Beginning
"After my divorce, I felt lost and alone in a foreign country, struggling with co-dependency. Through our sessions, I regained my confidence, built a solid routine, and now feel empowered to start fresh. The guidance, book recommendations, and deep conversations helped me realize what I truly needed. Today, I feel independent and on the right path."
A– Overcoming Anxiety & Regaining Control
"Anxiety and depression had taken over my life. I felt hopeless and uncertain about my future. But with the right tools and techniques, I’ve learned to break the cycle of anxiety, stay grounded, and regain control. Now, I feel calmer, my relationship has improved, and I know exactly what to do when anxiety strikes. Even small changes—like using a weighted blanket and writing letters—have had a huge impact on my healing."
J– Breaking Patterns & Building Self-Love
"After my breakup, I felt stuck in the same painful patterns, constantly carrying other people’s problems. Through our sessions, I’ve learned to set boundaries, prioritize my mental and physical health, and truly love myself. Now, I feel at peace, understanding that every experience is part of my growth. The practical exercises, books, and shift in perception have been life-changing!"
E– Healing Family Relationships & Setting Boundaries
"Reconnecting with my siblings after 30 years was overwhelming. Fear of conflict and deep-rooted patterns held me back. Karen helped me see things from a new perspective, understand cultural influences, and set healthy boundaries. Now, my relationships are stronger, my communication is clear, and I feel confident navigating difficult conversations. I finally feel empowered to face family dynamics in a healthy way."
L– Emotional Clarity & Confidence in Decisions
"I felt lost in my emotions, unsure about my relationship, and even struggled with physical symptoms like breathing issues. Our sessions have given me the clarity and confidence to make decisions without fear. I feel lighter, cry less, breathe better, and sleep more peacefully. What I love most? The practical exercises that turn theory into real change. I’m finally taking charge of my life."
C– From Overwhelmed to Empowered
"I felt lost, unsure of my direction, and stuck in self-doubt. Relationship struggles and health frustrations made everything feel even harder. Through our sessions, I learned to recognise my worth, understand my fears, and appreciate my progress. Now, I feel stronger, more confident, and equipped to navigate challenges. My relationship has improved with better communication and boundaries, and I no longer judge myself harshly—I embrace my growth with clarity and self-trust."
Ready to take the first step in your journey?
Schedule your introductory session today!
Ready to take the first step in your journey? Schedule your introductory session today!
Have questions?
Send me a message
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If you need URGENT Help
The services listed in this section are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week unless otherwise specified.
Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor
Lifeline – 0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357 (HELP)
Youthline – 0800 376 633, free text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat
Healthline – 0800 611 116 Health advice from professional healthcare providers
All content Copyright © 2026 Karen Bernal
All content Copyright © 2026 Karen Bernal