Daniel (Ngāti Raukawa) (he/him) is a second year student in the Counseling and Addictions Practice Bachelor's programme at Whitireia Weltec. He practices person centred therapy, focusing on mana enhancement and client agency, seeking to create a judgment free space where whaiora are free to share and shape their own stories. He is working with Kōwhai in a clinical placement for 2026 while he works towards NZAC and DAPANZ registration. When he isn’t counselling, Daniel lives in Wellington with his partner and two cats, running tabletop and breaking his home server.

 

Daniel grew up farming in Te Manawatū-Whanganui and did his schooling in Wellington. He’s worked trades, hospo, and everything in between. The reason Daniel is in this work now, is seeing the courage and generosity it takes to show one’s vulnerability, especially in environments like construction, that make doing so difficult. A pluralistic approach in counselling means using the right tools for the job, whether whaiora are closed off or overflowing, every person deserves to be listened to and respected. Daniel’s mahi now is making space so that you may honestly share what you think and feel, in such a way that you are seen, heard, and honoured.