Kia ora! Welcome to Hart Space
We have branches in Tūranganui-a-Kiwa, Gisborne and Motueka.
Our team offers a range of emotional support and development services including an experienced team of counsellors and a range of programmes and courses both in the community and online.
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Counselling
Katy works with children, adolescents and adults and is available for online and in person counselling.
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Counselling in Schools
Hart Space provide therapeutic support in schools including Awapuni, Te Wharau, Gisborne Intermediate, Mangapapa or Ilminster Intermediate.
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Parent Programme
Incredible Years Parent Programme run in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.
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Supervision
Supervision provides a positive environment within which professional practice can be reflected upon, reviewed and developed.
Meet Hart Space Director, Katy Hart
Kia ora,
I’m a counsellor, author, and the founder of Hart Space — a place created to support emotional wellbeing, connection, and healing for children, adults, and families. I am based in Motueka.
My approach is warm, compassionate, and grounded in the belief that people thrive when they feel safe, seen, and supported. Whether you are navigating anxiety, stress, grief, parenting challenges, trauma, or simply feeling overwhelmed, you are welcome here.
Alongside counselling, I am passionate about emotional education, nervous system awareness, and creating resources that support both children and the adults who care for them.
Nau mai, welcome.
What our clients are saying:
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![Three overlapping speech bubbles in green, pink, and blue on a light green background.]()
"You speak so well- it was very calming and I liken this to listening to a podcast. The worksheets are great and have given me something to think about and reflect on. I look forward to more courses with you."
– Lana
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![A woman with dark hair and earrings, smiling and wearing a beige shirt and a silver necklace, standing in front of a plain white wall.]()
"I learnt more about myself - what makes me happy and not stressed. How to manage stress... Learning about different emotions within ourselves and others and developing effective ways of managing those feelings."
– Kristy M.
Shop resources
Schools we work with
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Awapuni School
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Ilminster Intermediate
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Gisborne Intermediate
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Mangapapa School
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Te Wharau School
This story was created as a gentle therapeutic resource for children carrying worries, secrets, or experiences that feel too big to hold alone.
It explores the emotional impact that can occur when children are exposed to the trauma, pain, or distress of others — often referred to as vicarious trauma.
Many children quietly absorb the emotions of the people around them without fully understanding what they are carrying.
Through storytelling, this book helps children recognize that difficult feelings can be shared safely with trusted adults.
It opens conversations around emotional safety, support, and the importance of not holding painful experiences in isolation.
The story has been written in a child-friendly and compassionate way, making complex emotional themes easier to understand.
It can support children who are naturally sensitive, empathic, or affected by challenging family, school, or social situations.
The book may also be helpful for parents, caregivers, counsellors, teachers, and support workers wanting to begin gentle conversations with children.
Rather than focusing on fear, the story encourages connection, courage, and emotional expression.