My Journey

My journey into psychotherapy has been shaped by a deep curiosity about people, relationships and the ways our life experiences influence who we become. 

Before becoming a psychotherapist, I worked in education as a teacher and curriculum developer across primary, secondary and tertiary levels. 

My professional journey later expanded into mental health forensic services and emergency housing. Working alongside people during some of life's most challenging moments deepened my appreciation for the resilience people carry. 

These experiences eventually led me to psychotherapy, where I found a way of working that honours the complexity of people's lives while recognising that healing often happens within safe, respectful and authentic relationships. 

As a Niuean psychotherapist practising in Aotearoa New Zealand, I also value the importance of culture, identity and belonging. I believe every person's story is shaped by their relationships, communities and lived experiences, and I strive to create a therapeutic space where these parts of who you are, are welcomed with curiousity and respect. 

Image: Matapa Chasm, Niue

How I Work

My approach is grounded in relational psychotherapy. 

This means I see therapy as more than talking about problems. Together, we explore the relationships, experiences and patterns that have shaped your life and continue to influence how you experience yourself and others today. 

My work is informed by relational psychotherapy, attachment theory, trauma-informed practice, psychodynamic thinking and cultural humility. Rather than offering quick solutions, I believe meaningful and lasting change develops through understanding ourselves more deeply within the contexts of a safe therapeutic relationship. 

I work collaboratively, recognising that you are the expert in your own life. My role is to bring curiousity, compassion and professional knowledge as we explore your experiences together. 

Therapy moves at your pace. There is no expectation that you share everything immediately. We begin where you are, allowing trust and understanding to develop over time. 

People I work with 

I welcome adults (18+) from diverse backgrounds and life experiences, and often work alongside people who are: 

  • Navigating stress, anxiety or low mood. 
  • Recovering from trauma, grief or significant life changes. 
  • Exploring identity, self-worth and belonging. 
  • Navigating cultural identity, bicultural or multicultural experiences. 
  • Exploring sexuality, gender and LGBTQIA+ experiences. 
  • Living at the intersection of culture, identity and sexuality. 
  • Working through relationship or family challenges. 
  • Managing workplace stress, burnout or leadership responsibilities. 
  • Working in caring professions such as education, health or social services. 
  • Recovering following mental health challenges or periods of instability. 
  • Seeking greater self-understanding and personal growth. 
  • Wanting to develop healthier relationships with themselves and others. 

Every person's story is unique, and this list is not exhaustive. If you're unsure whether I may be the right therapist for you, I invite you to get in touch. We can have a conversation about what you're looking for and whether working together feels like a good fit. 

Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Education (Huarahi Māori Specialisation) - University of Auckland
  • Master of Educational Leadership - Auckland University of Technology (AUT) 
  • Post Graduate Diploma Psychotherapy - AUT 
  • Master of Psychotherapy (completing 2026) - AUT 
  • Certificate in Adult Tertiary Teaching - Te Wānanga o Aotearoa 
  • Certificate in Rongoā - Te Wānganga o Aotearoa