About Penny-Laine

I’m Penny-Laine Calitz, a registered counsellor offering online support for children, teens, parents, and adults across New Zealand. Originally from South Africa, I now call Auckland home, where I live with my family.

My passion for counselling grew from my own life experiences and a deep belief in the power of being heard. Whether you’re a teen navigating the challenges of growing up, a parent feeling overwhelmed, or someone simply needing a safe space to talk — I’m here to listen, without judgment.

With professional training and years of experience working with individuals of all ages, my approach is warm, flexible, and tailored to what works for you. I believe in creating a space where you feel safe to explore your thoughts, emotions, and goals, at your own pace.

If you’d like to know more about how I work and the techniques I use, you can explore my Counselling Approach.

I look forward to walking alongside you, wherever you are in your journey.

Outside of counselling, you’ll often find me spending time with my family, enjoying coffee and a good book, or soaking up the beauty of New Zealand.

My counselling approach is shaped by both my professional training and my personal experiences as a parent, immigrant, and person of faith. I understand the importance of feeling truly heard, and I aim to create a space where you or your child can feel safe, supported, and understood.

I hold a Bachelor of Education (Hons) from the University of Pretoria in South Africa, and I continue to develop my skills through ongoing training in evidence-based therapies, including ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and Play Therapy.

My experience includes working in school settings, providing counselling to children and teens, as well as working in a youth drug and alcohol service, where I supported young people and their whanau navigating substance use and the challenges that come with it.

This varied background allows me to adapt my approach to the unique needs of each client - whether they’re a young person finding their voice, or a parent seeking guidance and support.