About Me

Life is often hard, and I’ve found it enormously helpful to talk my problems through with someone.

Text or phone me on 02041488887 or email keycounsellingnz@gmail.com

We can talk about relationship problems, anxiety, depression, grief, goals, stress, work, and other issues. I’m an Integrative Counsellor, which means I’m trained in a variety of approaches. I’m trauma-informed and have worked with clients who’ve experienced sexual and physical abuse. We’ll choose the tools that will best fit your needs together. Read more about How I Work With You.

I’m 56 and have personal lived experience of depression, suicidal thoughts, significant mental illness, divorce, job loss, and more. I discovered the benefit of facing my issues and moving on to live a fulfilling life. I’d love to work with you using my experience and training to help you figure out your stuff. Index to my writing.

I’m based in Wellington, New Zealand where I see clients face-to-face. I also work with clients all over the world using video. This can be cheaper for you, and at a convenient time such as evenings.

I also enjoy working with what are usually called “mental disorders”, as I’ve had my share of difficulties here too: e.g., anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma (PTSD). (I use medical language here for clarity, but prefer other ways of talking about these things.)

I follow the NZ Association of Counsellors code of ethics. My supervisor is Paul Jacobson, NZAC.

I earned a Masters degree in sociology, and my unpublished PhD thesis was the basis for learning to live with my bipolar disorder.  I do counselling work for Trauma Recovery Aotearoa / Men and Trauma. I was a board member of Kites NZ for eight years, and a consumer advisor in mental health to the Wellington 3DHB before its restructure.

In my personal life, I’m a father to two awesome kids, I’m passionate about music, close friends, cooking, and nature.