Zhijie (Jerry) Dai
Zhijie (Jerry) Dai
PhD
Availability
Available
Service Locations
Christchurch City
Travel Information
I hold a PhD in Behavioural Psychology (University of Canterbury, 2012) and am a registered counsellor in NZ. I work with clients from diverse Eastern and Western backgrounds, using research in culture and behaviour to create culturally responsive, individualised wellbeing plans.
My practice is trauma-informed, with experience supporting clients affected by childhood and family trauma, domestic violence, and complex relationship patterns. I integrate evidence-based approaches such as ACT and CBT, alongside insights from neuroscience, behavioural science and cross-cultural psychology, grounded in over 25 years of teaching and research. This integrative approach supports safe trauma processing, resilience, and emotional regulation.
Through work in NGOs, the public health system, and ACC Sensitive Claims, I have supported lasting reductions in distress and meaningful recovery. My client-centred approach emphasises safety, compassion, and empowerment, honouring each person’s pace of healing.
To learn more, you are welcome to read my interview with The Press:
www.thepress.co.nz/nz-news/360840801/bringing-eastern-wisdom-kiwi-mental-health
Associated Services
ACC Cultural Advisors
South Coast Psychology values diversity and therefore we seek cultural supervision and advice. Our Cultural Advisors support kiritaki by helping ensure services are culturally safe, respectful, and responsive to their values, identity, and whānau context.
ACC Sensitive Claims Services
Through the ACC Sensitive Claims Service we offer fully funded support, treatment and assessment services for survivors of sexual abuse or assault. Our Named Service Providers are skilled, experienced, and qualified professionals.
Equine Therapy
Equine therapy has been used to treat anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, addiction, depression, PTSD and many other mental health conditions, and, in addition to targeting symptoms of those disorders, is theorized to help people build confidence, self-awareness, and empathy.
Private Therapy Services
At South Coast Psychology, our providers offer evidence-based, culturally grounded and compassionate care to support you at your own pace. Private sessions provide flexible, timely support without the requirements of external funding or referrals.