About Me
Using compassion, kindness, and sometimes humour to facilitate this guided-discovery process, I focus on the whole self and lifestyle balance, utilizing the Te Whare Tapa Wha model. My aim is to develop an individual’s self-awareness, enable them to make new choices, and bring about positive changes in their life. I prioritize the relationship between the client and therapist, providing a safe and non-judgemental environment where people can explore their concerns. My warm, positive, and affirmative approach allows clients to collaborate at their own pace, whether in short-term or long-term work.
As a specialist relationship counsellor, my expertise lies in working with couples using Emotionally Focused 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 in both individual counselling and relationship counselling settings, while also maintaining regular supervision. I keep up to date with current research and trends by attending seminars and lectures by international experts, particularly in areas like Couples Counselling and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Prior to my counselling career, 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, which has enriched my approach as a specialist relationship counsellor.
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.
My background also includes training in individual counselling and relationship counselling, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of both couples counselling and individual needs.
Memberships:
Member of New Zealand Association of Counsellors (MNZAC)
Member of the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT), specializing in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples counselling and relationship counselling.
Member of the New Zealand Community for Emotionally Focused Therapy (NZCEFT),
Training
Emotionally Focused Therapy is a key approach in couples counselling, providing support for partners facing relationship challenges. Other therapeutic methods like Transactional Analysis (TA), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Psychodynamic Behaviour can also be valuable for individual counselling. For those seeking help with emotional regulation, Dialectic Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Psychodrama offer effective strategies. Additionally, practices like Zen meditation and creative expression can enhance the therapeutic experience, complementing the guidance of a specialist relationship counsellor.
Areas of Special Interest
Navigating relationships can often lead to challenges such as loss, grief, and depression. These feelings can be exacerbated by anxiety or significant life transitions, including trauma and abuse. For couples facing these issues, couples counselling or relationship counselling can provide essential support. Additionally, individual counselling can help individuals manage anger, overcome addictions, and build self-esteem. Emotionally Focused Therapy is also a beneficial approach for those experiencing changes in their relationships, offering guidance through difficult emotions and conflict. Seeking help from a specialist relationship counsellor can be a vital step in addressing these complex emotions.
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 counselling intervention, unlike most traditional relationship counselling. Research shows that 70-75% of couples transition 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.
As a specialist relationship counsellor, I help couples understand and transform negative interaction patterns by exploring their underlying emotional needs and vulnerabilities. This therapy will assist you and your partner in moving from alienation and defensiveness to emotional engagement and intimacy by addressing attachment issues and unmet relational needs, fostering a more secure and loving bond.