Our work together

Counselling Approach

My counselling approach values kindness, empathy, connection, and creativity. If you choose to work with me, I will listen to your concerns with compassion and without judgment. I will support you in finding your way forward from feeling stuck. My approach is based on Pluralistic therapy, ensuring we work in a way that feels right for you. This includes person-centred, creative, narrative, and trauma-informed approaches. I align my values and practice with the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and aim to foster genuine connections with Tāngata Whenua. I welcome people from diverse backgrounds, values, beliefs, cultures, abilities, and age groups. I provide counselling services that adhere to the NZAC code of ethics, ensuring confidentiality while prioritising safety and ethical standards.

Working with adults

My work with adults focuses on life transitions, anxiety, grief, loneliness, work-related stresses and recovery from trauma.

Our approaches to managing aging can sometimes leave us feeling stuck or overwhelmed. These reactions often develop gradually as protective responses, shaped by our early relationships and past experiences. When unresolved, challenging experiences can continue to negatively affect our emotional and physical well-being. Speaking with someone can truly make a difference.

Counselling offers an unbiased and safe space to slow down and make sense of what’s been happening for you. Together, we can gently explore your experiences, work through difficult emotions, and build a deeper understanding of yourself. From here, it becomes possible to develop more helpful ways of relating to yourself and others, and to move towards a life that feels more balanced and meaningful.

Working with children and young adults

I offer compassionate counselling for children and young people, supporting them through difficult times in a safe and nurturing environment.

When working with younger children, I work closely with whānau, recognising the importance of family ties and shared understanding in a child's wellbeing journey. Using a range of approaches tailored to each child, I include creative therapies like Sandplay to help children express their feelings, build resilience, and make sense of their world. Together, we find the approach that best suits your child's unique needs, empowering them to feel heard, supported, and confident to navigate their path in life.

My work with young adults uses a person-centred approach. I recognise the importance of feeling seen, heard and understood. Together, we explore the challenges of being a young adult today, without bias and without the noise of other influences in your life. We explore what is going on for you and identify tools and skills to help you navigate your path forward.

As an accredited Gumboot Friday Counsellor, you can access up to 6 free sessions by booking through their platform using this link. 

Cooking Counsellor Sessions – A traditional way of talking

Do you feel like you might need to talk to someone but aren't sure if counselling is the right choice for you? Why not give a Cooking Counsellor session a go? 

Shannon is a registered counsellor with a passion for food. Before becoming a counsellor, Shannon worked as the National Trainer for a global oven brand and understands how to get the best out of any kitchen. She has presented on stage at the New Zealand Food Show in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.

Shannon offers a counselling session in your home. Together, we will make a dish and talk about what is going on for you. We will explore ways to manage what is happening without bias and with the confidentiality offered in a traditional counselling session.

Sessions are slightly longer than typical counselling appointments because we'll be cooking together while we talk. The cost is $150 for up to 90-minutes.