Tēnā koe, ko Debbie McMillan ahau. He kaiwhakatakoto kaupapa CBT (Cognitive Behavioural rāua EMDR Therapist) ahau. Ko Ngāpuhi rāua   ko Ngāti Whātua ōku iwi.

Debbie is a registered ACC Sensitive Claims therapist, offering both individual therapy and clinical/cultural supervision. She works with adults of all genders and has extensive experience supporting kiritaki across a wide range of presentations, including:

• Trauma (PTSD and Complex PTSD, intergenerational trauma, emotional neglect, physical, emotional and psychological abuse)

• Anxiety (OCD, panic attacks, insomnia, social anxiety)

• Addictions (alcohol, drugs, sex, gambling, food)

• Depression, grief and loss

• Anger and relationship challenges

Debbie brings a strong background in forensic and rehabilitation settings, supporting clients with complex presentations and high needs. Her approach is grounded, practical, and trauma-informed, with a focus on safety, collaboration, and sustainable change.

Therapy Modalities

Debbie integrates evidence-based and culturally responsive approaches, including:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

• Attachment-Informed Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)

• Trauma-informed care frameworks

• Māori models of wellbeing

She weaves te ao Māori into her practice where appropriate, incorporating:
Purākau (narratives), Te Whare Tapa Whā, Te Hā (breathwork), whakataukī, karakia and waiata to support holistic healing.

EMDR Intensives (Adjunct Option)

In addition to standard weekly or fortnightly sessions, Debbie offers Attachment-Informed EMDR Intensives as an adjunct treatment. These are structured, focused sessions (typically delivered as 3 x 90-minute sessions over one day) designed to support accelerated trauma processing.

EMDR intensives can be used alongside a client’s existing therapy with a lead provider, helping to create momentum in treatment, particularly where time constraints, travel, or clinical complexity are factors. A post-intensive check-in is included to support integration.

Debbie also works under NIB Insurance as a health provider.

Qualifications & Professional Memberships:

• Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

• Full Member, New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC)

• Associate Member EMDR NZ

• Registered ACC Sensitive Claims Therapist

Professional Development

Debbie has completed advanced training in:

• Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), including attachment-informed approaches

• Trauma-informed practice and complex trauma

• Group EMDR (G-TEP) applications

• Integration of cultural frameworks within therapeutic practice

Debbie considers it a privilege to walk alongside kiritaki in their healing journey and welcomes working in partnership with you.

Ngā mihi nui