From Survival to Healing

Been stuck in survival mode … there’s a way through

I help people dealing with trauma, anxiety, and emotional burnout find a path toward healing

I’ve been there too — and I know how overwhelming it can feel

About ME

Hi, I’m David Barton, a registered counsellor based in New Zealand.

I work with people who feel like they’ve been carrying pain for years — sometimes without even realising it. Whether it comes from childhood experiences, broken relationships, illness, or just the grind of holding everything together… that weight can start to feel unbearable.

I know the feeling. As a cancer survivor, I’ve lived through months of intense suffering and had to face my own emotional recovery, not just physical healing. That experience taught me something: real healing starts when we stop just surviving — and begin listening to what our bodies and minds have been trying to say.

If you’re ready to take a step toward healing, I’d be honoured to walk alongside you.

Session Pricing

💳 Pricing & Payment

Session Fee: $120 NZD (50-minute session).
Payment is due at the time of booking and can be made securely online.

I accept credit card payments, which are processed through Stripe.
Please note: a small credit card processing fee will be added at checkout.

If you have any questions about payment or would prefer an alternative method, feel free to contact me directly.

Does any of this sound familiar?

You feel tense all the time — like something bad is about to happen
You shut down when life gets overwhelming
You can’t say no — even when you’re exhausted
You beat yourself up over small mistakes
You’ve always been “the strong one” — but you don’t feel okay inside
You’ve been through tough things, but never had the space to process them
You feel numb, disconnected, or like you’re always just getting through the day

You’re not broken — your body and mind have simply adapted to survive.

In our sessions, we’ll work gently to understand those patterns, release the stress they’ve held onto, and help you move toward a more peaceful, grounded version of yourself.

Whether this is your first time in therapy or you've tried before, this is a space to feel safe, seen, and supported — at your pace.

Sessions are private, professional, and tailored to meet you where you're at.
There’s no pressure to explain everything right away — we go at your pace.

All sessions are conducted in my office at Level 1, 67 Princes Street, Dunedin.

David Barton PhD, Counsellor , Provisional Member NZCCA

Please email or call/text me for further details:
📧 davidbarton@ontrackcounselling.nz | 📞 021-137- 4491

My Qualifications

I graduated from the University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand, with a PhD in Psychology. I was privileged to study at Otago, as it is consistently ranked among the top 100 universities in the world. Students come from all over the globe to study here.

I received my Diploma in Counselling from Otago Polytechnic, specializing in three modalities: Person-Centred Counselling, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy (REBT).

These two qualifications are my most significant, but I have also completed several other short courses and diplomas, including:

Diploma in Organizational Psychology
Primary Practice Certificate in Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy
Certification as a Relationship Workshop Facilitator
Diploma in Ministry
Certificate in REBT Mindset Mastery (Transformation Academy)
Career Coaching Accreditation
Certificate in DBT – Dialectical Behavioural Therapy

Currently, I am learning Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as I find its ideas both useful and interesting.

As you can see, my practice is very eclectic. I believe most therapeutic models offer something valuable, and I integrate these insights into my work. Since I don’t believe a single approach suits everyone, I adapt my methods to the individual and their goals.

Of course, my learning doesn’t stop here. One of my key values is continued education. I enjoy keeping up with the latest psychological research, exploring new ways to help people overcome challenges and enjoy healthier, happier lives.

Google Sites

Report abuse