My Approach

When clients come to see me they are hoping for change, and the stories that they carry with them may have never been witnessed or told. The work I do as a counsellor is a privilege. People trust me to hold space for the stories of their lives; their vulnerabilities, pain, trauma, losses, hopes, dreams and challenges.

I work collaboratively alongside my clients to create space a space within we can illuminate how experiences and beliefs from your past may be shaping your present. From there we can identify how you would prefer your life to be and discover the healing and action that will support that journey.

Therapy Framework

Internal Family Systems (IFS):

In my practice, I use Internal Family Systems (IFS) as the core of our work together. 

If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected—from yourself or others—you’re not alone. Many of us have inner parts carrying pain, fear, or self-judgment. Parts that have worked hard to protect us but may now feel like they’re keeping us from the life and relationships we truly want. 

IFS offers a gentle yet powerful way to explore your inner world and understand the different parts of you. Instead of trying to “fix” or fight against your struggles, we’ll create space to gently explore these parts, build self-compassion, and heal from within.

IFS doesn’t just foster inner harmony—it also transforms how we connect with others. When we befriend our inner world, we show up in relationships with more clarity, confidence, and compassion. Together, we’ll create space for more authentic intimacy, open communication, and secure relationships.

My practice is grounded in also Narrative Therapy approaches. Narrative Therapy takes the stance that people are competent and knowledgeable, that problems are separate from people and that change is possible. Alongside Narrative Therapy, I draw on Compassionate Communication (NVC), Solutions Focused Brief Therapy, Polyvagal Therapy and Mindfulness techniques, to ensure that our work together meets your specific needs.

Experience

Having previously worked at a co-educational Grammar School and a not for profit community counselling practice, I now see individuals in private practice for a range of presenting problems. A significant amount of my work involves trauma, anxiety, depression, grief/loss and relationship issues.

I provide an affirming space for Neurodiverse and Rainbow community clients. Your experiences and identities are welcome here. We’ll work at a pace that honours your unique needs and strengths.

After a 20 year career in the performing arts, a significant portion of my work is also focused on maintaining wellbeing and sustainable careers in the Arts community.

Personal Journey

Meaningful change happened in my personal counselling journey when my counsellor believed that I knew intuitively what I needed, and had the ability to make that change. They believed that I was the expert in my own life and used skilled listening and curiosity to bring my hidden knowings into being. They held hope for me until I was able to hold it myself. That is the commitment I make to you, as my client.

Living as a tauiwi now, in the rich, complex political and social context of Āotearoa, I believe in the principles of protection, participation and partnership with Tāngata Whenua, honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi .