About Me
Using compassion, kindness, and sometimes humour, to facilitate this guided-discovery process, I focus on the whole self, lifestyle balance (using Te Whare Tapa Wha) and developing a person’s ability to cope, make new choices, and bring about positive changes in their life. Focusing on the relationship between the client and the therapist, I prioritise providing a safe and non-judgemental environment where people can explore their concerns. I have a warm, positive, and affirmative approach and facilitate collaborating with clients at their own pace in either short term or long-term work.
My specialty is working with couples/relationships, using Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT).
Professional Experience
Since my counselling training over thirty years ago, I have worked in government agencies (including prisons), community organisations and my own private practice, honing my skills and knowledge through my work with clients, as well as maintaining regular supervision. I keep up to date with current research and trends by attending seminars and lectures by international experts.
Prior to counselling, I practised as an artist and worked as an art therapist in a variety of situations including rehab centres, prisons, mental health, and intellectual disability facilities.
Qualifications and Training:
- Diploma of Counselling and Applied Psychotherapy
- Certificate of Psychotherapy
- Diploma in Teaching
- Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT)- Level 2 Additional
- Completed three years training in Transactional Analysis Psychotherapy
Memberships:
- Member of New Zealand Association of Counsellors (MNZAC)
- Member International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT)
- Member New Zealand Community for Emotionally Focused Therapy (NZCEFT)
What is EFT?
I have been trained in and practicing Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for 15 years and have witnessed its ability to strengthen the emotional bond between partners. EFT is a cutting-edge, proven couples intervention, unlike most ‘relationship counselling’. Research has shown 70-75% of couples move from distress to recovery after engaging in EFT.
Rooted in attachment theory, this method is based on the idea that romantic love is a powerful attachment bond, similar to the bond between a parent and child.
The EFT therapist helps couples understand and transform negative interaction patterns by exploring their underlying emotional needs and vulnerabilities. This therapy will help you and your partner move from alienation and defensiveness to emotional engagement and intimacy by addressing attachment issues and unmet relational needs, and fostering a more secure and loving bond.