Dr. Anna Friis
Dr Anna Friis is a compassion-focused therapist and health psychologist with a PhD in the field. From her private practice in Ponsonby, Auckland, she works with people experiencing the mind-body effects of trauma or chronic stress on their work, health, and relationships.
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Her work is grounded in the science of mindfulness and self-compassion, alongside a deeply attuned, relational approach. She creates a space where you can slow down, feel safe enough to be real, and gently shift long-standing patterns with clarity, courage, and kindness.
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As a member of the international Center for Mindful Self-Compassion teaching team, Anna also trains and mentors students and health professionals worldwide. Her work reflects a deep commitment to bringing the science of self-compassion into both clinical practice and everyday life, in service of a kinder world.
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"Working with you has changed the most important relationship I have; the relationship I have with myself". Vanessa
Therapy Services
How can I support you?
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Therapy with Anna is both grounded and deeply human. You’ll be met with warmth, insight, and a steady, compassionate presence that helps you feel safe enough to be real. Together we slow things down, make sense of what’s happening beneath the surface, and gently shift the patterns that keep you stuck. This is a space where science and soul meet - - where you learn not just to cope, but to relate to yourself with clarity, courage, and kindness.
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Make an appointment directly or ask your GP to send through a referral letter and we will be in touch. Online sessions are available.
Featured courses
5-Day Mindful Self-Compassion Intensive
With Dr Anna Friis and Dr Robyn Charlton
Join us at the beautiful Mana Retreat Centre for an immersive experience in mindfulness and self-compassion. This intensive course is designed to recharge your spirit and provide deep, practical tools for resilience.
21–26 September 2026
Mana Retreat Centre, Coromandel, New Zealand
Short Course in Mindful Self-Compassion 2026
The NZ Psychological Society is delighted to offer a short online course in Mindful Self-Compassion (SC-MSC), to be taught by Dr Anna Friis.
The SC-MSC is a 6-week adaptation of the empirically-supported
8-week Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) program designed to begin the cultivation of the skills of self-compassion.
Therapy Enquiries
If you're considering therapy, please include a brief description of what brings you to seek support at this time.
If I think I can help, we can make a time to meet.
