Meet Dr Mona Ghanbari

Hello! Kia ora! سلام! Dorood! Nǐ hǎo! ¡Hola! Talofa! Namaste! Konnichiwa!

I completed my PhD in Cognitive Psychology at Massey University in Auckland, New Zealand, with a research focus on neuroassessment and mindfulness. Throughout my career, I have gained extensive experience across both private and public sectors, supporting children, adolescents (including at-risk youth), and adults. I have also practised as a qualified psychologist internationally.

My specialist area is neurodivergent assessment and psychological care, with a particular focus on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), and Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). I provide comprehensive psychological assessments and evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a range of challenges, including Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), trauma, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), emotional dysregulation, depression, and anxiety disorders.

I previously worked as an acute intervention provider for the New Zealand Ministry of Education (MoE), supporting clients with complex behavioural, emotional, and socio-developmental needs. My approach combines evidence-based psychological therapies with a strong understanding of each individual’s unique strengths, needs, and neurodivergent profile.

In therapy, I use a client-centred approach and tailor interventions to each person’s goals and circumstances. My therapeutic approaches include Mindfulness Practice, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Schema Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

I have supported clients and families from diverse socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds, including Middle Eastern, Asian, Pākehā, Māori, and Pacific communities. I am also honoured to be the first registered psychologist in New Zealand fluent in Persian/Farsi.

I find psychology fascinating because every individual’s experience is unique. Understanding human behaviour requires a personalised approach that considers neurodevelopment, life experiences, relationships, and broader social and cultural influences.

Dr. Mona Ghanbari (PSYCHOLOGIST – PhD, MA (HONS), PGDiPPP, NZPsS, NZPB)