Indigo House has providers throughout New Zealand,
so there could be one near you.
Our therapists may be available through ACC funding, private sessions, or Rongoā Māori services.
[ Our providers are listed in alphabetical order by last name. Please take note of which clinic/s they work from before you make an enquiry. ]
Raewyn Anderson
Counsellor

Raewyn is a Counsellor with over 20 years of experience.
She is a compassionate and practical trauma specialist who integrates both structured and holistic approaches to support emotional wellbeing. Her practice is informed by tikanga Māori and grounded in cultural sensitivity, offering clients personalised support that fosters resilience, self-efficacy, and long-term recovery.
Raewyn specialises in:
She is comfortable working with all cultures and genders, speaks English, and is continuing her learning in Te Reo Māori. Based in Wellington, Raewyn provides counselling in private practice as well as in community and emergency management settings.
Raewyn is also the author of the Broken Tikanga series, which reflects her deep commitment to healing, justice, and the strength of the human spirit.
Tui Armstrong
Social Worker, Cultural Supervisor, Facilitator, Lecturer

Tui is a social worker and facilitator who brings a relational, values-led approach grounded in authenticity, respect, and connection. She has experience across Corrections, tertiary education, and cultural supervision, supporting individuals and groups navigating trauma, identity, and change.
Her work integrates trauma-informed practice with cultural understanding, creating spaces where people feel safe to be honest, challenged to grow, and supported to move forward in ways that feel aligned and empowering.
Tui offers her services in:
Avanol Bell
Counsellor Therapist

Avanol has spent 35 years working as a Psychologist and Counsellor dealing with:
She has worked with people from many cultures – Zulu, Xhosa, Shona, Ndebele, Koi San, Afrikaans speaking South African, Indian and, for over 15 years, Te Reo Māori.
Avanol is comfortable working with all genders.
“Since emigrating from South Africa to New Zealand 15 years ago, I have worked with clients… with a wide range of issues… grief, anxiety, anger, depression, physical and emotional trauma, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, addictions, family violence and sexual harm. I am passionate about the work I do. Through using therapeutic modalities best suited to the client, I aim to help find clarity and to free them from troubling emotions, so they can move forward with their lives, feeling lighter, stronger and with a deeper understanding of who they are and who they would like to be.”
Tania Blomfield
Counsellor

Tania is a Counsellor with 16 years in practice. She is also an Arts Therapist with a Clinical Master’s Degree in Arts Therapy and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Rehabilitation.
Her specialties include:
Tania is comfortable working with all genders and NZ European, Māori, Samoan, Tongan, Rarotongan, Fijian, other European, Chinese, Japanese, Taiwanese, Filipino and Indian cultures.
“I have a particular interest in working with shame and have specialised in working with trauma and grief. I prefer to work creatively with clients to enable them to explore their issues and to find solutions that work for them.”
[Currently, Tania is only available to complete ACC Sensitive Claims assessments]
Masha Broadbent
Counsellor

Masha is a Counsellor who works with children, adolescents, adults, and couples.
She takes a collaborative, client-centred approach, with a strong focus on creating a safe, respectful, and supportive space. Her work is trauma-informed, supporting clients to explore their experiences at a pace that prioritises safety and stability.
Masha is trained in a range of therapeutic approaches, including Narrative Therapy, Transactional Analysis, parts-based work, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). She integrates these to help clients understand patterns in thoughts, emotions, and behaviour, particularly in relation to trauma and life experiences.
She also incorporates creative modalities such as Interactive Drawing Therapy (IDT), sand tray, and play-based approaches, which are especially effective when working with clients who find verbal expression challenging.
She has expertise in:
Masha is experienced with children aged 6 to 11 in a school setting and supporting families. She values culturally responsive practice and incorporates holistic frameworks such as Te Whare Tapa Whā.
Melinda Brownsword
Psychologist

Melinda is a Registered Psychologist, and has been in practice for 16 years.
She has expertise in:
“I am focused on developing a therapeutic relationship and assisting young people and adults to reach their wellbeing goals. I come from a neuropsychological approach to therapy and incorporate a variety of therapeutic modalities in my practice.”
Lynda Campbell-Harris
Social Worker, Counsellor

Lynda is a Registered Social Worker and Social Work Therapist with 23 years of experience supporting individuals and whānau across a range of settings. She works with both adults and young people, drawing on her extensive background in mental health, counselling, and resilience-building.
Her therapeutic approach integrates counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) skills, and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), for which she holds a basic certificate. Lynda works from a trauma-informed, strengths-based perspective and tailors her support to each person’s unique needs and goals.
Lynda is also available for EAP (Employee Assistance Programme) work, offering short-term, solution-focused support to individuals navigating workplace or personal challenges.
In addition to her clinical work, Lynda provides supervision for social workers and other professionals, supporting reflective and ethical practice.
Based in Northland since 1991, Lynda has deep roots in the local community and works respectfully with people of all cultures and genders. Originally from the West Coast of the South Island and the eldest of seven siblings, she brings warmth, life experience, and grounded presence to her work.
Lynda is passionate about supporting people to navigate life’s challenges and live in a way that feels meaningful and fulfilling.
“I like to keep active and enjoy walking, gardening, land-based fishing. I am the eldest child of seven and was born and raised on the West Coast of the South Island.
My husband and I have lived in Northland since 1991. We have raised three sons here in Northland. I am passionate about supporting people to live the best life they can.”
Anne Carroll
Psychotherapist

Anne is a Psychotherapist and has been in practice for seven years. She has expertise dealing with:
Anne has also completed advanced training in energy psychology, breath work, and relaxation and wellbeing therapies.
She is comfortable working with all genders and cultures and has particular experience of Chinese, Korean and British cultures.
“As well as traditional ‘talk’ therapy, I offer… other training and approaches to support my clients… to find or rediscover their joy.”
Noeleen Chaney
Counsellor, Social Worker

Noeleen is a Counsellor with 20 years practice experience. She specialises in:
Noeleen has lived and worked in Northland for over 16 years and has experience and training in working with people of all ages, gender, sexuality and people from different cultures.
Her experience is mainly concentrated around forensics, addictions, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Noeleen is passionate about supporting people to achieve their unique and wonderful personal potential in every aspect of their wellbeing.
“I originally trained in the UK as a social worker in 1996. I have been a supervisor, group work therapist and individual addictions Counsellor, self-employed, and an AOD educator for Northland DHB amongst many other professional achievements.
I am committed to lifelong learning and with this in mind, I completed my post graduate certificate in addiction and mental health.”
Rosemary Clempson-Carnell
Counsellor Therapist

Rosemary is an experienced Therapist and Counsellor with over 25 years in practice. She specialises in:
Rosemary has numerous qualifications. She is an accredited Sex Therapist and accreditation in the areas of Family Violence and ACC Sensitive Claims, is fully registered for drug and alcohol (DAPAANZ) and a full member of NZPsS (New Zealand Psychological Society).
Rosemary also has a private practice and is an EAP (Employee Assistance Programme) provider and victim support therapist.
She is comfortable working with all genders and European, Māori and Pasifika cultures.
Christine (Chris) Finn
Counsellor

Chris is a Social Worker with 13 years of practice experience. Her expertise is in:
Chris is comfortable dealing with all genders and cultures.
“I am a registered Social Worker with SWRB and ANZASW. I work from a strengths based, person-centred perspective with an approachable respectful manner. This has developed through working alongside diverse groups of people and cultures. I have a passion for equity and social justice coupled with a non-judgemental empathetic attitude and approach.
I’m Mum to four adult sons and live with my husband on 3 acres in Hokianga, alongside 3 dogs and 3 sheep.”
Nicole Foster
Clinical Psychologist

Nicole is a Registered Clinical Psychologist and has been practising for 12 years, working in the Far North with adults and adolescents. She specialises in:
Nicole was raised in the Far North and has close ties to the community. She provides psychological assessment, diagnosis and evidence-based treatment for a variety of mental health and emotional difficulties. She is very experienced working with people who have undergone trauma and complex trauma.
Nicole tries to create a safe, friendly environment for people. It enables her to understand their difficulties and help them develop new skills and strategies to move forward. Nicole is comfortable working with all cultures and genders.
Nikki Geeson
Psychologist

Nikki offers a curious and flexible approach to therapy and draws on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and sand play therapy. She is skilled in using EMDR with children.
A registered Psychologist, additionally, Nikki is trained in emotion coaching which helps parents build emotional intelligence, stronger connections, and better behavioural regulation in children, and in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy.
She has expertise in:
Nikki has broad experience in working among communities with diverse populations from all ages, cultures, and walks of life. She is caring and curious and brings an openminded and non-judgemental perspective to her therapeutic relationships.
She is currently available to see clients on a Saturday in Kerikeri and some weekday evenings in Kaitaia.
Janie Hall
Psychotherapist

Janie is an Art Psychotherapist who has been practising since 1999.
She has worked extensively with adults, children and young people across mental health, education, and private practice settings, both in the UK and Aotearoa New Zealand. Her specialties are:
Janie offers a creative and flexible approach to therapy, using a range of art materials, sand tray, toys, puppets, storytelling, role play, clay and sensorimotor art therapy techniques. Her practice is grounded in the belief that making art can help people make sense of their experiences. No prior art experience is needed.
She is open to working with all genders and has experience supporting people from a wide range of cultural backgrounds. Her approach is culturally responsive and continues to be shaped by the knowledge and practices shared with her by clients and colleagues.
“My experience spans working with adults and children in mental health settings as well as across the education sector and private practice.
I am a past president of the Art Therapy in Education Group of the British Association of Art Therapists and a visiting lecturer and student supervisor at Goldsmiths College, University of London. I moved to Aotearoa New Zealand in 2005, and my children were born here.”
Lesley Hawkins
Dance Movement Therapist, Social Worker, Counsellor

Lesley offers a creative therapy health service which is body centred and polyvagal informed, utilising dance movement therapy as the primary framework and integrating talk therapy with supportive models such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Mindfulness. She draws from her extensive professional experience, tailoring support to suit the different needs of each person/whānau.
Lesley’s areas of expertise are:
Based on the evidence of body-mind unity, she works with the whole person, not just their symptoms and diagnosis, offering an embodied creative approach. Working in partnership with clients to help foster a reciprocal alliance, that is empowering and person centred, with choice and agency at the heart. Values that support her practice are being holistic, strengths-based, compassionate, and culturally inclusive.
“My aim is to support you find long term recovery and post traumatic growth, building resiliency and self-efficacy, so you can find your own flow and flourish, or put another way – Dance to Life.”
Martina Hofer
Social Worker

Martina is a Social Worker and has been in practice for over 25 years.
She has expertise in:
Martina speaks English and German and works with all cultures and genders.
“I have close to 30 years of experience in a range of social work settings, both overseas and in New Zealand. Twenty years working in the Health Sector in NZ, six years in private practice as an ACC sub-contractor in Health, Elderly Care, Disability, Neuro Rehabilitation, Trauma and Family work.”
Hayden Isaac
Psychotherapist

Hayden holds a Master’s degree in Psychotherapy from AUT and has worked in both individual and group settings since becoming registered in 2019. Hayden draws on a psychoanalytic and psychodynamic approach, particularly post-Kleinian Object Relations theory, to explore the deeper layers of a person’s inner world.
Hayden specialises in:
His approach is thoughtful, compassionate, and grounded in rich clinical experience across diverse settings – including the AUT Psychotherapy Clinic, Dove Hospice, Ashburn Clinic, and private practice. He is currently the therapeutic lead at Whakamatutu, a group-oriented day program.
Hayden is comfortable working with people of all genders and cultural backgrounds and offers therapy both in person now from his Dunedin office and online when appropriate.
In addition to his therapeutic work, Hayden brings life experience from his background in anthropology, the performing arts, early childhood education, ESOL teaching, horticulture, and hospitality. He has lived and worked abroad in South Korea and Canada and brings a deep curiosity and care to every therapeutic relationship.
“I aim to create a warm and reflective space where together we can explore the emotional undercurrents of your experiences—to better understand, integrate, and reconnect with who you are, and who you’re becoming.”
Dan Jackson
Counsellor

With six years of experience, Dan brings a grounded, approachable presence to his work – supporting clients with compassion, curiosity, and emotional insight. His practice is centred on helping young people and adults navigate life’s challenges with greater self-awareness and resilience.
Dan specialises in:
Dan is passionate about working alongside people to explore the stories, experiences, and identities that shape who they are. He is affirming and inclusive of all cultures and genders, and has experience working with non-binary and trans clients.
In addition to in-person sessions in Wellington Central, Dan also offers counselling online.
Outside of the therapy space, Dan is a self-professed nerd who enjoys board games, PC gaming, and exploring what makes us human. His warmth, humour, and depth make him a steady and relatable guide for those seeking change and self-discovery.
“I am approachable and down to earth; I am a bit of a nerd and enjoy PC/board games. I love exploring what makes us who we are and being mindful of the wounds we all carry and working to bring soothing/healing to these areas.”
Sandy Joe
Counsellor

Sandy has been a Counsellor for 13 years. She is registered with the New Zealand Association of Counsellors and specialises in:
She has helped people all her adult working life. Sandy has worked with victims of crime, sexual abuse and rape and domestic violence. She has also worked with the perpetrators of domestic violence, people with drug and alcohol addictions and those with relationship issues.
She is passionate about working with the victims of abuse and trauma so that they have wholeness in mind, body and spirit.
Sandy is comfortable working with all genders. She works with Māori, Pakeha, English, Yugoslavian and Asian cultures and people of European descent.
Amanda Johnsen
Clinical Psychologist

Amanda is a Clinical Psychologist who has been practising since 2018.
Born and raised in Tai Tokerau, she has a deep connection to Northland and a strong commitment to supporting the wellbeing of her community.
Amanda has worked across child, adolescent, and adult mental health services, and began private practice in 2020. She brings a calm, compassionate presence and a non-judgemental approach to her work, creating a safe and confidential space for clients to explore their challenges and achieve meaningful change.
Amanda’s specialties are:
Her therapeutic approach is guided by evidence-based models and tailored to each person’s unique needs, goals, and strengths. She works collaboratively with clients, offering practical tools and emotional support to promote healing and resilience.
Amanda works with adult women and is comfortable supporting clients from all cultures. She is based in Kerikeri and offers services in English.
Outside of her clinical work, Amanda enjoys being in nature, spending time with her whānau and friends, and attending group fitness classes.
Vanessa Kite
Mental Health Nurse, Counsellor

Vanessa brings over 20 years of experience working in the mental health sector across Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia. Her approach is grounded, compassionate, and informed by both professional expertise and lived experience.
A descendant of Te Aupōuri and Ngāi Takoto iwi, Vanessa incorporates culturally responsive and holistic wellbeing practices into her work.
Vanessa specialises in:
Since returning to Aotearoa, Vanessa established her private mental wellness service, Rakau Ora, in 2021.
She works with Māori, Indigenous, and non-Māori clients, providing a safe and supportive space for healing and growth.
Leigh Lawless
Counsellor

Leigh is a Counsellor with over 22 years of experience.
She is a skilled and compassionate child-centred play Therapist, dedicated to supporting tamariki aged 3 to 13 as they navigate emotional, behavioural, and developmental challenges.
Leigh creates a warm, safe, and age-appropriate therapeutic environment where children can express themselves freely through play, fostering trust, resilience, and healing.
She has expertise in:
Leigh has worked both in Aotearoa and overseas, drawing on a wide range of techniques tailored to each child’s unique needs. Her approach honours the natural language of play and the importance of building strong therapeutic relationships.
She works with children of all genders and cultural backgrounds, and provides services from her practice in Timaru.
“The play therapy room offers children a safe space to be seen, heard, and understood. Through the power of play, they find their voice, build resilience, and begin the journey of healing in their own time, in their own way.”
C. Lilley
Psychologist

A Registered Psychologist and an EMDRAA Accredited Practitioner in EMDR*, specialising in:
Operating from various locations across Northland.
“By using evidence based practices, my intention and purpose is to alleviate and reduce human suffering. Known for my sense of humour and ability to put you at ease, there are opportunities for personal reflection and growth. Originally from South London, in 2006 I moved to work in Mid North, Tai Tokerau, where whānau and ngā tangāta embraced me – to them I express sincere gratitude for their welcome and warmth. They taught me the importance of whākawhānaungātanga.
Influenced by my ancestors, who passed down a deep sense of protective duty, tenacity, compassion and emotional strength, this enhances and enables manaakī and āwhi to be interwoven throughout the therapeutic narrative and its processes. I look forward to working with you.
“Me noho tahi, tēnā, tēnā pea ka tika” – Discuss together, then things may come right.
Erin Majurey
Trauma Therapist

Erin is a registered trauma Counsellor working with people under ACC, the Ministry of Education, and Victim Support contracts to support individuals navigating the impact of trauma.
Drawing both from her personal journey and evidence-based therapies, Erin gently holds space for clients to process trauma and learn tools to create the life they deserve.
She’s a steadfast LGBTQ+ ally who meets each person where they’re at, weaving together Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Somatic approaches, Attachment Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Jungian principles, Shadow Work, Inner Child and Parts Work to create tailor-made support that honours each person’s path to wellness.
Jacque McCallum
Counsellor, Clinical Practitioner

Jacque has practised as a Counsellor for 14 years. She specialises in:
As a professional Counsellor, Jacque believes in practising “from a mana-enhancing and holistic approach where my whaiora guide their process”. She uses raranga (weaving) as a tool and is also a Reiki Practitioner.
Jacque has provisional NZAC membership and is a provisional registered member of DAPAANZ.
She works in a multi-cultural setting with all genders.
“Ko Karioi te maunga
Ko Mimiti te awa
Ko Mangatōwai te marae
Ko Pātau te wahi tapū
Ko Waimahana te wahapū
Ko Mamaru te waka
Ko Parata te tangata ka moe ia Kahukuraāriki
Te Matakairiri ngā hapū
Ko Ngaāti Kahu ki Whangaroa te iwi
Ko Jacque tōku ingoa”
Fiona McKenzie
Counsellor

Fiona is a Counsellor with 20 years of experience. Her areas of expertise are:
Fiona is comfortable working with all cultures and genders – men, women, children, families, LGBGQT+ and non-binary.
“I trained in NZ and have worked in NZ and Australia in a variety of settings and diverse communities. I have experience working within Mental Health for adults and children, addiction (supporting people
and their families in recovery) and people who have a history of trauma.”
Debbie McMillan
Cognitive Behavioural Therapist

Debbie’s experience was gained within a forensic context, and she specialises in:
In her practice, Debbie acknowledges Te Pō and Te Ao Mārama and how we can retreat from one realm into another, to seek what is lacking in the other.
“My current career choice and how I practice is informed by my life experiences. As such, I consider myself a tool in which to provide support, understanding and growth from experiences in which people, understandably, find extremely difficult to comprehend physically, emotionally and spiritually.
My aim is not to deny the experience occurred but to be able to view this with deep self compassion and aroha. I acknowledge the kaha/courage to withstand your inner turmoil yet still take steps towards reconnection and back to the whole of you.”
Robyn Moses
Psychologist

Robyn is a Registered Psychologist and a member of the NZ Psychologists Association and the NZ Association of Positive Psychologists. She has practised for 18 years. Robyn also has a degree in social work and qualifications in counselling.
She specailises in:
Robyn is comfortable with all genders and loves working with all cultures – mostly NZ Pakeha, Māori and Pasifika peoples. She also offers support to those who want a Christian or spiritual perspective to their therapy.
In mid-2022 Robyn relocated to Whanganui from Kaitaia and loves to spend her spare time reading, knitting and spending time with her family.
“I look for the strengths in every person and situation that I work with using a positive rather than a deficit model of practice, a holistic (whare tapa wha) framework and a strong base in neuroscience.”
Prem Nand
Clinical Dietitian, Nutritionist (NZRD)

Prem is a New Zealand Registered Clinical Dietitian and Nutritionist with 30 years of experience.
She is a compassionate and empathetic in her practice as an integrative dietitian who understands that life has a way of throwing curve balls.
Prem specialises in many areas of health including:
Prem speaks English as well as Fiji Hindi.
“I believe in the power of a safe, trusting relationship to support healing and transformation. Together, we uncover what’s needed for growth – and honour what makes you, you.”
Kaye Newman-Hynes
Psychotherapist

Kaye is a Registered Psychotherapist with PBANZ, and has over 30 years practice experience.
Her speciality areas are:
Kaye speaks English as well as basic Te Reo and is comfortable working with Māori and Pasifika cultures, men and women.
“I have worked across all sectors of Mental Health – maternal and infant, children, adolescents and adults. I also have a strong background in statutory care and protection and clinical work.
My approach is healing emotional harm. I am respectful of others, strongly empathic and I have a great sense of humour.”
Heather Nicholson
Counsellor

Heather is a Counsellor and has been practising since 2022. She has completed a Post Graduate Certificate in Responding to Trauma and is trained as an Interactive Drawing Therapist (IDT).
Heather specialises in:
Heather works with all genders and cultures and is comfortable incorporating a Christian or spiritual perspective into therapy when this is important for her clients.
She uses a range of therapeutic approaches including person-centred therapy, CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), narrative therapy, strengths-based practice, creative therapies and IDT.
Passionate about helping people strengthen and enhance their lives, Heather aims to create a respectful, trusting and non-judgemental space where people feel supported to explore, heal and grow.
Toni Penaia
Psychologist

Toni completed her training in 2001 and is registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board, as well as a full member of the New Zealand Psychological Society. She brings extensive clinical experience working with children through to adults across mental health, addictions, specialist assessments, and complex trauma.
Her approach is grounded in compassion, curiosity, and a non-judgemental therapeutic space, supporting clients to explore their experiences safely and meaningfully.
Toni’s specialties are:
Toni currently works with female clients aged 18 and over and supports individuals from all cultural backgrounds.
Megan Phillips
Counsellor

Megan has practised as a Counsellor for 22 years and has expertise in:
Megan is comfortable working with all genders and cultures.
“I have worked most of my professional life in Auckland and then moved into private practice in 2016. I have worked with vulnerable families/whānau where trauma, addiction, loss and domestic violence have all been significant difficulties. I work from a client-centred, motivational and strength-based approach.”
Lynn Price
Psychologist

Lynn is a psychologist and has been in practice for more than 15 years. She specialises in:
Lynn works with all genders.
She is responsive to a wide range of cultures within a therapeutic relationship.
“As a psychologist I focus on building a partnership with clients, based on safety and trust to develop effective plans, which clients and I work together to achieve. We prioritise goals, process trauma and past difficulties, and apply evidenced-based interventions to enhance quality of life, relationships and increase coping strategies.
I use relevant skills for a meaningful life guided by clients’ values.”
Gay Puketapu-Andrews
Counsellor

Gay is a Counsellor with over 35 years of experience.
She specialises in working with issues related to cultural identity, gender and sexuality, and has a strong focus on supporting individuals and whānau healing from sexual, psychological and cultural harm.
Gay’s specialties are:
Gay is deeply committed to walking alongside people on their healing journeys. She believes in the capacity of every person to reclaim the mana that is rightfully theirs and is continually inspired by the courage and creativity of those she works with.
She speaks English and intermediate Te Reo Māori and is comfortable working with all genders. Gay has extensive experience working with Māori, Pākehā and Pasifika communities, and her practice is grounded in kaupapa Māori values and cultural safety.
Based in Raumati, Gay provides counselling services in Wellington, Kāpiti and Porirua.
“Ko Tokomaru tōku waka
Ko Taranaki tōku maunga
Ko Te Ātiawa rāua ko Ngāti Toa ōku iwi
Ko Mururaupatu tōku marae
E noho ana au ki Raumati ki te Tonga i te taha o tōku whaea “
Patrick Sharp
Counsellor

Patrick is a dedicated counsellor with over a decade of experience, specializing in a wide range of culturally diverse environments. Throughout his career, he has had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, and their families, fostering supportive relationships to help them navigate challenges. In addition to his work with younger clients, Patrick has extensive experience in assisting adults facing mental health issues and addiction, providing a compassionate and understanding approach.
In his practice, Patrick employs a variety of trauma informed therapeutic techniques, including narrative therapy and solution-focused approaches. He also incorporates culturally sensitive models, such as Te Whare Tapa Whā, ensuring that his methods resonate with the diverse backgrounds of his clients.
Patrick’s educational background includes a degree in Counselling and Social Work, complemented by a Postgraduate degree in Forensic Studies. He is a fully registered member of the New Zealand Social Work Association, reflecting his commitment to professional standards and ongoing development in the field of counselling.
Teinia Smith
Social Worker

Teinia is a Social Worker with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals and whānau in Te Tai Tokerau.
Teinia brings a strong sense of cultural identity and deep connection to her community, with much of her mahi grounded in the Mid North region. Teinia’s approach is compassionate, culturally responsive, and built on trusted relationships that have been nurtured over decades of service.
Teinia specialises in:
She is confident working with people of all cultures and genders, speaks English, and provides support from the Mid North but is also able to travel if needed. Her practice is grounded in whānau-centred values and a genuine belief in walking alongside others to uplift and empower.
“He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata.
People are the heart of everything I do. My purpose is to serve with aroha, uplift with integrity, and walk alongside whānau with compassion and respect.”
Steve Smithson
Counsellor

Steve has practised as a Counsellor for more than eight years. His expertise is in:
Steve is comfortable working with NZ European, Māori and Pasifika cultures and all genders.
He has worked with offenders in the UK and Aotearoa. He has also worked as a school counsellor and a clinical supervisor for a UK mental health crisis intervention charity. Recently he was the first male counsellor for a women’s survivor charity based in Dargaville. He also provides ACC counselling support for Sensitive Claims.
“I am a person-centred Counsellor. Fishing, photography and football are my calming places and activities.”
Deborah Stone
Counsellor

Debbie is a Counsellor and has been practising for over thirty years. She has had very diverse training – a Master’s degree in Counselling from Auckland University, followed by many years of practice.
Debbie has worked with teenagers and their whanau/families. For the last four years, she has worked with:
Debbie has an understanding of Te Reo Māori and a little French and German and is comfortable working with European, Māori and Pasifika cultures. She is happy to work with anyone who feels comfortable when meeting her.
“Counselling is a two-way relationship… My years of counselling teenagers in High Schools led me to work in many different modes, and often with families/whanau. I now enjoy my Sensitive Claims work with [mainly] adult women and feel very privileged to share in their healing process… I am happy to share my Raranga (flax weaving) knowledge as another therapeutic tool.”
Leanne Thompson-Rapira
Counsellor

Leanne Thompson-Rapira is a Counsellor and NZAC member with over 15 years of experience.
Leanne’s practice is grounded in her whakapapa and driven by a deep commitment to culturally responsive and mana-enhancing practice.
Leanne specialises in:
Her approach is compassionate, respectful, and grounded in kaupapa Māori values, creating safe and non-judgemental spaces where individuals can explore, heal, and grow.
She is fluent in English and has intermediate proficiency in te reo Māori. Based in West Auckland, Leanne works with people from all cultures and genders and brings a strong advocacy lens to her work.
“He uri ahau nō Ngāpuhi nui tonu me Ngāti Rangiwewehi. My whakapapa grounds me and serves as the foundation of my professional practice. I bring a culturally responsive and respectful approach to my work, with a strong commitment to enhancing mana and fostering a safe, non-judgemental environment. I am passionate about supporting healing, growth, and positive transformation within individuals and communities.”
Marion Tizzard
Social Worker, DAPAANZ Practitioner

Marion has over 15 years’ experience of helping people with substance abuse problems, co-existing mental health, family harm and trauma. She also works with family members both individually and jointly to support themselves and their loved ones with problematic substance use.
She is solution focused, and specialises in:
Marion believes that everyone has the ability to make changes in their lives and she will work with you at your pace using a strengths-based solution focused approach to help you achieve wellness by taking practical and pragmatic steps that will enable you live the life you want to lead.
“Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change.”
Fabienne Ussher
Counsellor, Trainee Psychotherapist

Fabienne has over 15 years of experience, and her practice is grounded in empathy, presence, and deep respect for the uniqueness of each individual.
She takes a holistic, collaborative approach, supporting clients to make meaning of their experiences and navigate life with greater awareness and confidence – drawing on the principles of Transactional Analysis Psychotherapy to help clients uncover unconscious patterns and develop more creative and connected ways of being.
Fabienne specialises in:
Fabienne is fluent in English, German, and French. She works with clients of all genders and backgrounds, and provides services in-person from Lower Hutt as well as online across the Greater Wellington region.
“I believe in the power of a safe, trusting relationship to support healing and transformation. Together, we uncover what’s needed for growth—and honour what makes you, you.”
Robby van Dijk
Therapist, Social Worker

Robby is a Registered Social Worker, Clinical Supervisor, and Havening Techniques® Trainer and Practitioner based in Whangārei.
Robby works with adults in a trauma-informed and compassionate way, supporting individuals through a range of challenges including:
His approach is grounded, practical, and relational, incorporating Havening Techniques® to support nervous system regulation and help reduce the impact of traumatic experiences. He focuses on creating a safe space where people can move toward meaningful change at a pace that feels right for them.
Marilize Venter
Counsellor

Marilize has been working with mental health and addictions for 14 years as a Registered Practitioner with DAPAANZ and also as an ACC Registered Sensitive Claims provider.
She is comfortable working with everyone, including LGBQT+, speaks English as well as Afrikaans and specialises in:
Marilize has clinics in Whangarei, Northland.
“I work with people of all ages, with specific focus on trauma, abuse and mental health and addictions. I am passionate about helping people, specifically using a person centred approach that encompasses a range of modalities which is determined by the needs and expectations of the person in front of me, and supporting people to live their values, reach their goals and live a meaningful life.”
Cordelia Waetford
Social Worker

Cordelia is a registered therapist with experience in both mental health and addictions, alongside her own lived experience. She understands the courage it takes to seek support and is committed to walking alongside people in a way that feels safe, respectful, and empowering.
Her specialties are:
Her approach is trauma-informed and guided by each person’s individual needs, pace, and goals. Cordelia draws on a range of therapeutic modalities to support healing, recovery, and reconnection, particularly for those impacted by sexual harm.
She is passionate about creating a space where people feel heard, believed, and supported to make choices that are right for them. Cordelia works collaboratively, holding a strong belief in each person’s strength and capacity to move forward in ways that honour their experiences.
“You are the expert of your own story – I am here to support you in finding your way forward.”
Heleina Waimoana Dalton
Creative Arts Specialist, Kaitiakianga – Bicultural Supervisor

Heleina Waimoana Dalton is a registered Clinical Creative Arts Therapist and Bicultural Clinical Supervisor (Kaitiakitanga), with over 25 years of experience in the community education space.
Her journey into therapeutic practice began through decades of community-based work, including roles as a certified parent educator for both Poutiria te Aroha and Parenting with Nonviolence. She later formalised her clinical practice by completing postgraduate and master’s training in arts therapy, becoming a clinical therapist in 2021.
Heleina specialises in:
Her practice is person-centred and integrates kaupapa Māori, experiential psychotherapeutic modalities, wairuatanga (spirituality), creativity, and te taiao (the natural world). She offers services to children (all genders), youth, and adult women, and is based in both Auckland City and Whangārei.
Heleina works confidently with people from all cultural backgrounds and speaks both English and Te Reo Māori.
“Ko Ngāpuhi, Kō Ngāti Awa, ko Ngāti Raukawa, Ko Ngāi Tai,
Kō Ngāti Kahungunu, Kō Ngāti Pākeha ōku iwiAs a clinical Creative Arts Therapist, I am a person-centred practitioner and lean into experiential psychotherapeutic modalities, wairuatanga – spirituality, kaupapa Māori, creativity and te taiao – the natural world to support people to expand their resources and access their inner wisdom in the pursuit of mauri ora – holistic wellbeing and vitality.”
Anah Wara
Counsellor, Herbalist

Anah has been a counsellor for eight years and a practising herbalist for 20 years.
She is a Registered Medical Herbalist (NZAMH) and Rongoa Practitioner. She offers a multi-disciplinary approach to recovery and often uses her plant allies “in the walk towards better health and happiness.”
Anah deals with substance abuse disorders, which often co-exist with depression, anxiety, trauma and association disorders.
Anah has some understanding of Te Reo – “Ko Ngapuhi te iwi, ko Ngati Rangi te hapu” – and is comfortable working with people of all genders and cultures.
Angela Witana
Counsellor

Angela’s interest is in working with people from all walks of life, including NZ European, Māori and Pacific Island clients to support them in recovery as they journey to improve their wellbeing.
Her specialties include:
She prefers to focus on exploring and enabling people to find their own solutions that specifically help them in moving forward.
Angela has been in practice for over 20 years, is comfortable working with all genders including LGBQT+, and has clinics in Muriwhenua and Te Tai Tokerau.
“Ko Angela Witana toku ingoa
Ko Mamari te waka
Ko Tawhitirahi te maunga
Ko Te Awapoka te awa
Ko Pārengarenga te moana
Ko Pōtahi te marae
Ko Waimirirangi te wharehui
Ko Te Rongopātūtaonga te wharekai
Ko Te Kao te kāinga
Ko Te Aupōuri te iwi”
Katy Yiakmis
Psychotherapist

Katy has practised as a Psychotherapist for six years, and her expertise is in supporting people:
Katy is comfortable working with all cultures and genders.
“I have worked in private practice since 2017. I also worked part-time until 2021 as a therapist and group facilitator at Higher Ground Trust, an addictions-focused residential therapeutic community. I’m a standard member of DAPAANZ, and a member of the Centre for Lacanian Analysis. I am ACC registered.”







































