About quit smoking
Quitting smoking is easier with support. Psychological programmes work on habits, triggers and cravings and can be combined with medical treatment. Planning a quit date and preparing for difficult moments increases the chances of success.
Clinical psychologists are psychologists with specialist training in assessing, diagnosing and treating mental health problems, from anxiety and depression to more complex conditions. In some countries it is a regulated health specialty; Therapy247 checks the registration.
Getting mental health care in New Zealand
Public health system · Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora
Free short-term mental health and wellbeing support for mild to moderate distress is offered in many general practices through the Access and Choice programme, delivered by Health Improvement Practitioners and health coaches. Depending on the region you can book directly or be referred by your GP or practice nurse, often on the same day. Availability depends on the practice; people with more severe needs are referred by their GP to specialist mental health services. More information
How to check that a professional is licensed
- New Zealand Psychologists Board (Te Poari Kaimātai Hinengaro o Aotearoa). Psychologist is a protected title: only people registered with the Board may use it, and they also need a current practising certificate. Check the register for their scope of practice (Psychologist or Clinical Psychologist) and practising certificate. Search the official register
Urgent help in New Zealand
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 111 · Emergency (111)
- 1737 · 1737 Need to talk?
- 0800 543 354 · Lifeline Aotearoa
- 0508 828 865 · Suicide Crisis Helpline (0508 TAUTOKO)
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: psychologistsboard.org.nz, mcnz.org.nz, tewhatuora.govt.nz, mentalhealth.org.nz
Signs to look out for
Many people who smoke want to stop but find it hard. Signs that nicotine has a strong hold include smoking soon after waking, feeling irritable, anxious or unable to concentrate without it, failing despite several attempts, and smoking even when ill. Professional support makes particular sense if you have tried alone before, smoke to manage stress or low mood, or have a health condition.
What helps: treatments and professionals
Combining behavioural support with medical treatment increases the chances of quitting compared with trying alone. Psychologists use cognitive-behavioural techniques, motivational interviewing and relapse prevention to work on habits, triggers and cravings, individually or in groups. A doctor or pharmacist can advise whether nicotine replacement or other medication is suitable for you. Many health services run stop-smoking programmes.
When to seek urgent help
Quitting smoking is not usually an emergency, but contact your local emergency services immediately for chest pain, severe breathlessness or signs of a stroke, such as sudden weakness or difficulty speaking. If quitting brings a sharp drop in mood or thoughts of harming yourself, seek help urgently. People with mental health conditions should involve their doctor when stopping, as some treatments may need adjusting.
What you can do in the meantime
Choose a quit date and prepare: remove cigarettes, lighters and ashtrays, identify your triggers and plan what you will do instead. Cravings usually pass within minutes, so distraction, water, a short walk or slow breathing can help. Tell people around you so they can support you, and avoid alcohol early on. A slip is not the end; learn from it and continue.
What does a clinical psychologist do?
A clinical psychologist assesses, diagnoses and treats mental health problems in children, adults or older people. Day to day they conduct clinical interviews, use validated questionnaires and tests, formulate what keeps the problem going, and deliver evidence-based therapies. They often work in hospitals, community mental health teams or private practice, and coordinate with psychiatrists, family doctors and social services.
When to see a clinical psychologist
A clinical psychologist is a good choice for moderate to severe or persistent difficulties: anxiety disorders, depression, obsessive-compulsive problems, trauma, eating disorders, personality difficulties, or when a formal diagnosis or report is needed. If medication may be needed or there is a risk to safety, a psychiatrist should also be involved. For coaching or personal growth, other professionals may fit better.
How to choose
When choosing, check the licence and training, the approach they use and whether they have experience with what you need. Consider practical aspects too: language, price, location or online sessions and availability. The relationship with the professional matters a great deal; if after a few sessions it does not feel right, it is fine to change.
Frequently asked questions
Does the public health system in New Zealand cover psychological care?
Free short-term mental health and wellbeing support for mild to moderate distress is offered in many general practices through the Access and Choice programme, delivered by Health Improvement Practitioners and health coaches. Depending on the region you can book directly or be referred by your GP or practice nurse, often on the same day. Availability depends on the practice; people with more severe needs are referred by their GP to specialist mental health services.
How do I check that a clinical psychologist is licensed in New Zealand?
New Zealand Psychologists Board (Te Poari Kaimātai Hinengaro o Aotearoa): Psychologist is a protected title: only people registered with the Board may use it, and they also need a current practising certificate. Check the register for their scope of practice (Psychologist or Clinical Psychologist) and practising certificate.