Sessions are held in an upstairs room at Cityside Baptist which is on the corner of Mt Eden Rd and Burleigh St. Skype sessions are also available.
Sometimes people come to discuss an issue that only needs one session, but usually people need between 3 and 6 sessions. Sometimes people want to, or need to work with me for a longer period. We can discuss your goals for counselling at our first session. "Counselling with Michelle is very helpful and encouraging. She kindly and firmly gives well thought-out ideas of strategies that could be used to make things better, and listens and gains understanding of you and your situation in a loving and supportive way." Clarissa |
About me and my work I work with teenagers, and adults. I have nearly 10 years' experience working with issues such as -
I studied at the University of Auckland and have my Masters degree in Counselling. I love meeting new people and getting to know my clients. I work from a person centered framework and integrate a variety of other modalities into my practice. I am a full member of the New Zealand Association of Counsellors. I sometimes use symbols, and sand tray therapy with clients who wish to explore their issues in this way. I am interested in how symbols and dreams can allow the unconscious to become conscious. I know through personal experience and through my work that counselling can be a powerful, healing experience, often providing personal insight into areas where people can feel stuck. Counselling can provide effective tools for living, and can empower people to make necessary change in their lives. Client Feedback -"Michelle was the first counsellor I actually had a connection with. My first session I knew we were going to work really well together and have a great relationship and I am forever grateful that i met her, she saved my life. She has seen me in my darkest times and never once judged me. She would listen and help me with strategies that i use everyday and will continue to use for the rest of my life. Going there every week has got me to where I am today, she has been an incredible help and support to me and I can't thank her enough" Amanda |
A bit more about me |
I have a background in teaching. I have always always enjoyed working with teenagers and find adolescence a fascinating period of growth. After gaining some experience in teaching I completed further study to become a counsellor which had been a long term dream. More recently I have become interested in perinatal issues after experiencing birth and parenthood first hand with all its challenges. I am married and have three children. I currently work part time counselling in a high school, part time at home with my children, and part time counselling privately. I work under the supervision of an experienced senior counsellor as required of all counsellors belonging to the association.
My other interests are painting, making and crafting all sorts of things, and baking with the kids. In summer I like to be at the beach surfing, swimming, and hanging out with family and friends. |