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I help with...

Anxiety & Stress

Does your mind rarely switch off? Do you find yourself worrying about the future, overthinking situations or feeling tense even when everything seems fine?

Confidence & Self-Esteem

Do you often doubt yourself, worry about what others think or feel that you are not good enough? Perhaps you find it difficult to speak up, make decisions or recognise your own strengths.

Depression & Low Mood

When you are feeling low, even everyday tasks can seem difficult. You may lose interest in things you once enjoyed, struggle with motivation or feel disconnected from the people and activities that usually matter to you.

Trauma & PTSD

Difficult experiences can sometimes continue to affect how we feel, think and respond long after they have happened. You may find yourself feeling on edge, reacting strongly to certain situations or struggling with memories and emotions that are difficult to leave behind.

Sleep Issues

Do you feel exhausted but struggle to fall asleep? Perhaps your mind starts racing as soon as you get into bed, or you wake during the night and find it difficult to settle again.

Anger & Emotional Regulation

Do you sometimes react more strongly than you intended? Perhaps you become frustrated quickly, say things you later regret or find it difficult to calm down once your emotions take over.

Addictions & Unwanted Habits

Habits and addictive behaviours can become deeply connected to our emotions, routines, stress and ways of coping. What may begin as a way to relax, escape or feel better can gradually become a cycle that is difficult to break.

Eating Issues

Do you find yourself eating when you are stressed or upset, struggling with guilt around food, or feeling caught in patterns that you would like to change?

Meet the Team

Anja Derks

Hypnosis, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and RTT Therapist in Christchurch, NZ

Hi, I am Anja

I am passionate about helping people who are struggling with today’s life.

If you are struggling with issues like stress or self-esteem, weight/eating issues, depression or any unidentified health issues, that’s where I can help!

Specialising in PTSD and Trauma, I have a non-confrontational method that helps you to let go of memories and emotions around your traumatic event.

Each therapy program is tailored to your specific needs, using a combination of Hypnosis and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). 

These two therapies compliment each other really well, meaning you can see quick and fast results.

Now Offering RTT, Coaching & Hypnotherapy for Adults , Children, Teens & Couples with Karen Moorhouse

We’re excited to welcome Karen Moorhouse, a qualified hypnotherapist, RTT therapist, and life coach. Karen specialises in helping adults, children, teenagers, and couples overcome anxiety, build confidence, and create lasting change.

Whether you are struggling with emotional well-being or your relationship needs renewed connection, Karen’s warm, results-focused approach can help. Available every week Wednesday and Thursday.

Future Freedom Coaching and Therapy

We are pleased to welcome Penny to FF Therapy, where she offers our new Future Freedom Coaching and Therapy service.
Penny works with people who may feel stuck, overwhelmed, caught in unhelpful patterns, or who simply know they want something in their life to change.
Her approach is supportive, practical and focused on helping you understand what is happening for you now, what may be keeping you stuck, and how you can move forward with greater clarity and confidence.

Available Monday to Friday every week —limited sessions, so book early.

Welcome to Feel Free Therapy

Founded by Anja Derks. We help people move through Trauma, PTSD, anxiety, eating disorders, anger, fear, and phobias using a personalised blend of Hypnotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and specialised coaching techniques.

If you have been struggling with your issues and feel like you’ve run out of options, especially when medication or specialist support hasn’t given you the answers you needed, there may be another way forward. With years of experience, Anja and her team work with you 1-on-1 to understand what’s really driving these patterns and support you toward lasting, meaningful change, whether you’re in Christchurch or joining us online from anywhere in New Zealand.

Explore what we offer

Feel Free

Why Choose Feel Free Therapy?

At Feel Free Therapy, I offer more than talk therapy—I provide personalised counselling in Christchurch designed to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. My services support people navigating stress, depression, self-esteem challenges, PTSD, addictions, or other issues that can limit daily life.

Hypnotherapy at the Core

Hypnotherapy is at the heart of my work. Every session is customised to what you bring with you, and it is always set up in a way that feels most comfortable to you. The focus is often on finding the root cause of a problem. However, for clients living with trauma or (C)PTSD who may not want to talk about their experiences, I use specialised techniques that allow progress without reliving or discussing painful memories.

A Safe, Supportive Approach

Whatever you present with, I adapt each session to your needs. My goal is to create a safe and respectful environment, whether in person in Christchurch or online, where you can explore healing at your own pace. I am here to support your healing journey every step of the way! 

Combining Hypnotherapy with CBT

Alongside hypnotherapy, I also use CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) as a complementary tool. While hypnotherapy works with the subconscious, CBT addresses conscious thoughts and behaviours. Together, they align both parts of the mind for faster, more effective results.

Proven Results

Research from the International Hypnosis Association shows that 71% of clients using Cognitive Hypnotherapy (a combination of CBT and hypnosis) reported recovery after just four sessions, compared to 42% with CBT alone. This combined approach has been shown to deliver results up to 70% quicker than traditional methods.

Transformative Results

With this unique combination, you can expect therapy that is not only effective but also deeply respectful of your individual journey. My mission is to help you unlock lasting change in a way that feels safe, compassionate, and truly transformative. Feel free to contact me for more information, and let’s start your healing journey together.

TESTIMONIALS

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Macky Thompson profile picture
Macky Thompson
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Anja, helped me....where i didn't think I could be fixed...she has these high review ratings for a reason. Thanks Anja!
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lily Robin profile picture
lily Robin
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I can't say enough about how transformational my experience with Anja has been. After only two sessions, I already feel like a new person. Anja's warmth and kindness made me feel completely comfortable from the very start. She creates such a safe and nurturing environment. Her approach has been nothing short of life-changing. I came to Anja struggling with PTSD and crippling anxiety about the future, as well as deeply rooted self-esteem issues. After our sessions, I've noticed a remarkable shift in my mindset. My anxiety has significantly decreased, and for the first time in years, I feel hopeful and excited about what lies ahead. My self-esteem has improved, and I feel more empowered and confident. Anja's intuitive and empathetic nature, combined with her skillful guidance, has truly helped me break free from the burdens that were holding me back. I can't recommend her enough to anyone seeking deep and lasting transformation. Thank you, Anja, for helping me find peace and a renewed sense of self.
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Marja Blom profile picture
Marja Blom
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I can’t recommend Anja enough. She possesses a rare combination of compassion and great skill. Her caring nature immediately put me at ease, creating a safe and supportive environment where I felt heard and valued. If you’re looking for someone who genuinely cares about your journey while delivering results, Anja is the one to see.
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Matthew Rowland
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Very grateful for Anja’s kindness, commitment, compassion, high level of competence/intelligence and professionalism. Highly, highly recommend.
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Sandra Sutton profile picture
Sandra Sutton
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Anja is the best very caring, empathetic you feel safe. I loved my time with her working through my lifetime of issues. I can’t Thank her enough 😊 Thank you once again Anja 😊 You will understand the Telly Tubby 😂
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W T profile picture
W T
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I hadn't been to hypnotherapy before. I procrastinated about it for years until opportunity put me with Anja for three sessions of discussion and hypnotherapy tools that really has shut down the endless negative self talk I had. The first two sessions dealt with the bulk of the issue, the third the icing on the cake. I can't recommend Anja highly enough. Go for it.
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Gary Jackson profile picture
Gary Jackson
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I visited Anja at feel free therapy because I was feeling constantly stressed out and I didn't know why. She immediately got to the root cause through talking and hypnotherapy. I did 4 sessions and after each one I felt a lot more calm. She is very understanding and a really nice lady, I can't recommend her enough. Thanks again
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Chloe Page profile picture
Chloe Page
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What a powerful and rewarding journey for me. Anja has helped me on my own healing journey with Dermatillomania in such a profound way and I have had huge transformation. I felt I was in the right place the first consultation with her and after trying many different types of therapy and modalities I have definitely come so far and feel my power and confidence back again!! Much gratitude to you Anja!
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Alex Winter profile picture
Alex Winter
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I’ve met Anja and felt straight away very comfortable to share with her myself, my live, my happiness, my small, big and very big problems.. Anja has listened them very actively and passionately helping already on the way while I was telling my story. She has gave me some tools and reassurance to see many of them at the different angles and gave me confidence to surpass them.
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Imi Guja
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Anja is passionate and really wants to help people, early days for me but there are noticable improvements already. Definitely reccomend giving it a go!
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Anxiety & Stress

Find Calm and Feel More in Control

Does your mind rarely switch off? Do you find yourself worrying about the future, overthinking situations or feeling tense even when everything seems fine?

Anxiety can leave you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed and unable to relax. Sometimes, you understand logically that there is nothing to worry about, yet your mind and body continue to react as though something might go wrong.

How can we help?

At Feel Free Therapy, we use Hypnotherapy as our primary approach to help you explore the patterns and responses that may be contributing to your anxiety.

Hypnosis is a relaxed, focused state in which you remain aware and involved. It can provide an opportunity to explore learned behaviours, work with unhelpful beliefs and practise more helpful ways of responding to situations.

We may also incorporate CBT to help you recognise unhelpful thinking patterns and Future Freedom Coaching to support self-awareness, practical strategies and positive change.

Your sessions are bespoke and tailored to your individual needs.

Take the first step towards feeling better.

You don’t have to let anxiety determine how you feel or what you do. With the right support, you can begin developing a different relationship with your thoughts and emotions.

Book a free, no-obligation consultation with Anja, Penny or Karen to explore how we may be able to help.

Confidence & Self-Esteem

Learn to Believe in Yourself

Do you often doubt yourself, worry about what others think or feel that you are not good enough? Perhaps you find it difficult to speak up, make decisions or recognise your own strengths.

The way we see ourselves can be influenced by past experiences, learned beliefs and the way we speak to ourselves. Over time, negative self-talk can become so familiar that we begin to accept it as the truth.

How can we help?

Hypnotherapy can provide an opportunity to explore the beliefs and patterns that may be affecting your confidence. It can help you practise more supportive ways of thinking and develop a stronger sense of self-belief.

At Feel Free Therapy, we may combine Hypnotherapy with CBT to help you recognise and challenge limiting thoughts, and Future Freedom Coaching to help you identify your strengths, clarify your goals and move forward with greater confidence.

Our aim is to help you feel more comfortable being yourself, trust your decisions and stop allowing self-doubt to hold you back.

Start seeing yourself differently

You don’t need to become someone else to feel confident. You can begin by changing the way you understand and respond to yourself.

Book a free, no-obligation consultation with Anja, Penny or Karen and take a step towards a more confident future.

Depression & Low Mood

Finding Your Way Forward

When you are feeling low, even everyday tasks can seem difficult. You may lose interest in things you once enjoyed, struggle with motivation or feel disconnected from the people and activities that usually matter to you.

Sometimes, negative thoughts become a familiar part of daily life, leaving you feeling stuck or unsure how to move forward.

How can we help?

At Feel Free Therapy, we take the time to understand what you are experiencing and explore whether hypnotherapy may be appropriate for your needs.

Hypnotherapy can provide a focused, supportive setting in which to work with unhelpful thought patterns, develop more supportive perspectives and practise responses that may help you move forward.

CBT can complement this work by helping you recognise patterns between your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Future Freedom Coaching may also help you identify manageable steps towards meaningful goals and positive changes in everyday life.

The approach will depend on your circumstances and the level of support you need.

You don’t have to figure everything out alone

Progress does not have to happen all at once. Sometimes, it begins with understanding what you are going through and taking one small step towards change.

Contact Anja or Karen to discuss your needs and explore suitable support.

Depression can require medical or specialist mental health care. Hypnotherapy is not a replacement for appropriate assessment and treatment, and we will consider whether our services are suitable for you.

Trauma & PTSD

When the Past Still Affects the Present

Difficult experiences can sometimes continue to affect how we feel, think and respond long after they have happened. You may find yourself feeling on edge, reacting strongly to certain situations or struggling with memories and emotions that are difficult to leave behind.

At Feel Free Therapy, we recognise that everyone’s experiences are different. We take an individualised approach to help you explore what you are experiencing and consider appropriate ways to move forward.

You are more than what has happened to you.

Contact Anja or Karen to discuss your needs and explore suitable support.

Learn more about Trauma & PTSD →

Sleep Issues

When Your Mind Won't Switch Off

Do you feel exhausted but struggle to fall asleep? Perhaps your mind starts racing as soon as you get into bed, or you wake during the night and find it difficult to settle again.

When sleep becomes a struggle, it can affect your mood, concentration, energy and ability to cope with everyday stress. Worrying about whether you will sleep can also make bedtime feel increasingly frustrating.

How can we help?

Hypnotherapy can offer a way to practise relaxation, work with bedtime worries and develop a calmer approach to rest. It may help you explore learned associations and unhelpful beliefs that have become connected with sleep.

At Feel Free Therapy, we may also use CBT-based strategies to address thoughts and habits that interfere with sleep, alongside Future Freedom Coaching where appropriate.

Our aim is to help you develop a healthier relationship with sleep without putting yourself under more pressure to achieve it.

Give yourself permission to rest

You cannot force yourself to fall asleep, but you can learn new ways to respond to the thoughts and feelings that surround bedtime.

Book a consultation with Anja, Karen or Penny to explore how we may be able to help.

Persistent sleep difficulties may have medical causes. Please seek appropriate health advice, particularly if you experience breathing difficulties during sleep or significant daytime sleepiness.

Anger & Emotional Regulation

Respond Rather Than React

Do you sometimes react more strongly than you intended? Perhaps you become frustrated quickly, say things you later regret or find it difficult to calm down once your emotions take over.

Anger is a normal human emotion, but the way we respond to it can affect our relationships, confidence and wellbeing. Sometimes, stress, hurt, fear or feeling unheard can contribute to reactions that are difficult to manage.

How can we help?

At Feel Free Therapy, hypnotherapy can provide an opportunity to explore emotional triggers and practise more helpful responses to challenging situations.

We may also use CBT to help you recognise the thoughts that contribute to your reactions, and Future Freedom Coaching to develop self-awareness, communication skills and practical strategies for managing difficult moments.

Our aim is not to remove anger, but to help you understand it and respond in ways that better reflect the person you want to be.

You can learn a different way to respond

You cannot always control what happens around you, but you can develop greater awareness of how you respond.

Book a free, no-obligation consultation with Anja, Penny or Karen and explore how you can build greater emotional balance and control.

Addictions & Unwanted Habits

Regain Control over Addictive Behaviours

Habits and addictive behaviours can become deeply connected to our emotions, routines, stress and ways of coping. What may begin as a way to relax, escape or feel better can gradually become a cycle that is difficult to break.

Have you ever wanted to stop a habit or behaviour but found yourself returning to it, even when you know it is no longer helping you?

Perhaps you drink more than you intend to, struggle with gambling, reach for cigarettes or vapes automatically, turn to food for comfort, or find yourself repeating a behaviour that feels increasingly difficult to control.

Habits can become connected to our emotions, routines and ways of coping. Some also involve physical dependence, cravings or withdrawal. Understanding what keeps a behaviour going can be an important step towards changing it.

How can we help?

Hypnotherapy can help you explore the patterns and associations connected with an unwanted habit and practise more helpful responses. It may complement your efforts to change your behaviour, strengthen your motivation and develop new ways of coping with triggers.

At Feel Free Therapy, we may also incorporate CBT to help you recognise the thoughts and situations that maintain a habit, and Future Freedom Coaching to support your goals and long-term changes.

Whether your goal involves smoking, vaping or another unwanted behaviour, we will discuss your circumstances and the support that may be appropriate.

You are not defined by a habit you are struggling with. With the right support and a realistic plan, you can begin working towards greater control over your choices.

Book a free, no-obligation consultation with Anja or Karen to discuss your goals and explore suitable support.

For alcohol or drug dependence, gambling problems, nicotine withdrawal or other significant addictions, medical or specialist support may also be important. Hypnotherapy should not replace appropriate treatment.

Eating Issues

Develop a Healthier Relationship with Food

Do you find yourself eating when you are stressed or upset, struggling with guilt around food, or feeling caught in patterns that you would like to change?

Our relationship with food can be influenced by emotions, habits, past experiences and the beliefs we hold about ourselves. Sometimes, food becomes a way of finding comfort or managing difficult feelings, even when the relief is only temporary.

How can we help?

At Feel Free Therapy, we can help you explore the emotional patterns and learned responses that may be contributing to your difficulties, where this is appropriate to your needs.

Hypnotherapy may complement this work by helping you practise more supportive responses to emotional triggers and develop greater awareness of your habits.

CBT can help you recognise unhelpful thought patterns, while Future Freedom Coaching may support self-awareness, self-acceptance and realistic goals for positive change.

Our approach is individualised and focuses on understanding your experience without judgement.

A kinder relationship with yourself

You deserve to feel supported rather than ashamed of what you are experiencing. Understanding your patterns can be a starting point towards making changes that support your wellbeing.

Book a free, no-obligation consultation with Anja or Karen to discuss your concerns and explore whether our approach is suitable for you.

Eating disorders and significant eating difficulties may require specialist medical, psychological and nutritional care. Our services should not replace that support.