About Me Professionally

I began my journey in counselling in 1994. I wanted to move from working in ministry outreach to a professionally focused vocation where I could help people who were suffering, lost and traumatised – experiences that had also historically been my own.

I initially trained in Basic Counselling, Temperament Therapy, and Marriage Therapy through programmes in the United States.

I completed a Diploma in Counselling here in New Zealand in 2004 and then a Bachelor of Counselling in 2010.

I completed my Master of Counselling degree with First Class Honours through the University of Auckland in 2016.

I have studied theology in-depth and for many years worked with Abiding Life Ministries in both Australia (where I set up the Australian office) and New Zealand (where I opened the NZ office and ran and taught seminars and retreats). I opened a retreat and counselling centre which I ran for many years in rural North Auckland. I am still very active in deeper thought processes around theology, spirituality, philosophy, and anthropology which continue to grow me and inform my life.

I have also completed many professional development programmes and courses:

  • Mindfulness
  • Couples work
  • Imago Relationship Therapy
  • Advanced Supervision training
  • Dog psychology and Training

I believe therapists must be engaged in their own regular personal counselling to practice safely and I continue to commit to this.  I have pursued my own depth psychotherapy over many years.

I am a full member, registered with the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC).  I am also a full member of the SACC in the US.

I am guided by the Code of Ethics of the NZAC.

To ensure safe and effective practice and ongoing professional development I attend regular supervision sessions.

You will see that working relationally and interpersonally guides my life and my work.  If you decide to work with me, you can expect warmth, authentic encounter and emerging change!