I am a full member of the New Zealand College of Clinical Psychologists (NZCCP) and I am registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board under the clinical scope.
I completed my Master’s in Psychology at Otago University and graduated with my Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology (with Distinction) from Victoria University of Wellington in 2004. I have since worked in a range of clinical settings including Child and Adolescent Community Mental Health Services (CAMHS), a Youth forensic team and the Tavistock Clinic (London), University student counselling services and in private practice. I also continue to work for a suicide prevention program targeting at-risk youth.
My experience has allowed me to work with people who are experiencing a range of challenges including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bereavement by suicide, grief and adjustment issues, self-esteem issues, living with Type 1 Diabetes, emotion regulation difficulties, work burnout and stress, trauma and postnatal difficulties.
My approach to therapy draws on a range of evidenced-based assessment and therapy models including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness based interventions and EMDR.
There is plenty of research to show that the relationship between therapist and client is the key to effective therapy so developing a trusting relationship is a priority for me. It is really important that you feel I am the right therapist for you so I encourage people to have a brief conversation prior to booking an appointment to get a sense of who I am and if you think you can work with me. This will also give me the opportunity to figure out if I have the right skills and capacity to support you.