Expertise
- Family Counsellor, Parenting Coordinator
Ann Higgs is an experienced New Zealand family counsellor dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families through complex relational transitions, separation, and emotional distress.
With a practice grounded in empathy, professional rigor, and evidence-based therapeutic frameworks, Ann helps clients navigate high-conflict dynamics with clarity and resilience.
Drawing on over 25 years of professional experience – beginning in family support and counselling with Barnardos in 1996 – her clinical approach prioritises constructive communication, the protection of children’s best interests during family restructuring, and practical resolution pathways.
Qualifications & Academic Background
• Bachelor of Health Science with Honours (BHSc Hons) in Psychology – Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
Dissertation focus: “Give me a Voice so I can Speak,” examining how counsellors enable children to have a voice following parental separation.
• Bachelor of Social Science (BSocSc) – University of Waikato (Major in Psychology, Minor in Education).
• Diploma in Counselling – Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT), Auckland.
Professional Memberships & Registrations
• Member – New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC) / Te Roopu Kaiwhiriwhiri o Aotearoa (registered since 2001).