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MY APPROACH TO PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT

ASSESSMENT AND FORMULATION

In psychology-speak, I take a bioecological, systems-based and developmental approach to psychological assessment and formulation. In everyday terms, this means that I consider not only what is going on within an individual, but I also look at the influence of factors in their environment. Things like family relationships, school, peers and experiences in the community can all interact in complex ways with individual characteristics to contribute to the development of mental health and wellbeing issues.​ It's my job to use my knowledge and skill to make sense of all of these considerations. Sometimes the most effective approach is directly supporting the child or adolescent in therapy sessions, however other times the more effective thing to do is to work with the adults in a young person's life when this is possible. My approach aims to provide a holistic and individualised roadmap for psychological support.

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THERAPEUTIC SUPPORT

​In my work, I primarily use Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), EMDR Therapy, and positive psychology approaches. I also draw on Mindful Self-Compassion, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and neuroscience-aligned approaches.

 

When supporting parents and caregivers, I am informed primarily by the Tuning into Teens approach and Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS). ACT, Mindful Self-compassion, and CBT also heavily influence my support of parents who need wellbeing support in addition to parenting help.

 

I am committed to working in an inclusive, neurodiversity-affirming, neuroscience-aligned, culturally-safe, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and trauma-informed way. â€‹

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WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU WORK WITH ME​

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AUTHENTICITY & COMPASSION

I am a down-to-earth person who really cares about providing support that alleviates suffering and promotes growth for my clients.

 

NON-JUDGMENT

I take people as they come, always with curiosity and open-mindedness rather than judgment.​

 

INTEGRITY & RELIABILITY

I take my ethical obligations seriously and am committed to providing evidence-informed support.

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PLAYFULNESS, HUMOUR, & CREATIVITY

Although mental health and wellbeing can be heavy topics, I believe that at times some lightness is both necessary and helpful.

 

COLLABORATION

It is really important to me that the support I provide is right for you and your family. The best approach in my mind therefore, is one that combines my psychological expertise and perspective with your unique insight and knowledge.

 

CLARITY

The most effective outcomes arrive when people are on the same page with shared goals in mind; I endeavour to ensure that my clients and I are clear about what we are doing and why.

LOCATIONS

Mondays - Selway House,149 Papanui Road, Merivale

Wednesdays & Thursdays - RangiOra Centre, 13 Durham Street, Rangiora

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