Kōwhai
Therapeutic
Services (KTS)
Meet the Team
Kōwhai Therapeutic Services Provides counselling in person in three locations across Aotearoa; Wellington, Christchurch and Auckland. Additionally we are able to provide counselling across Aotearoa via online counselling.
Clinical Lead
Sam Dudek
Sam, one of the two clinical leads at Kōwhai Therapeutic Services, obtained her BSc in Counselling Psychology in 2001 and is registered as a provisional member of NZAC. With a passion for working with a diverse range of clients, Sam embraces life's variety whilst wholeheartedly subscribing to Jung's quote, 'if you resist it will persist.' Her counselling approach is pluralistic, centering on each client's unique needs and selecting an approach that aligns with their specific requirements. When not counselling, Sam can be found spending time with family and friends.
Clinical Lead
Stephanie O'Brien
Steph, one of the two clinical leads at Kōwhai Therapeutic Services, holds the position of a registered provisional member of NZAC. Beyond her enthusiasm for working with a diverse range of clients through a pluralistic approach, she also possesses a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience. This educational background equips her with added strength, enabling her to skillfully support her clients by understanding their mental health on a deeper level. Outside of counselling, Steph enjoys spending time with family and friends.
Counsellor
Rochelle Jackson
Rochelle is working towards her Bachelor of Counselling degree. She counsels using a person-centred approach and aims to provide a safe and non-judgemental environment where people can feel empowered to navigate challenges in their lives. She is passionate about supporting people to become the best version of themselves. Rochelle has worked with people in the mental health area from a range of backgrounds and cultures. In her spare time, she enjoys catching up with family and enjoying coffee with friends in Wellington’s best cafes.
Counsellor and Kōwhai Office Admin
Callum Hackett
Introducing Callum, a compassionate individual whose upbringing included a family member who was a counsellor, an influence that deeply shaped his outlook on life. Callum is working towards his Bachelor of Counselling and Addiction Studies degree. Callum is naturally inclined to understand and aid others in their personal growth and fulfilment journey. His innate empathy and dedication shine through, making him a cornerstone of support for those around him. In his pursuit to make a positive impact, he embodies the principles of empathy, non-judgement, and empowerment. Much like his family, Callum is driven by a genuine desire to help others become the best versions of themselves, navigating life's challenges with resilience and inner strength. When not counselling, Callum enjoys spending time with his family, partner, and friends.
Counsellor (not available until June)
Claire Teal (she/her), Pākehā
Claire is a queer, cisgender woman and mother known for bringing warmth and empathy to her counselling. She is skilled at creating safe, respectful therapeutic spaces that center each client's story and individuality. Claire draws on narrative therapy, strengths-based practice and trauma-informed approaches in her work. She has particular expertise in working with women, young people and Rainbow communities, and in supporting people through fertility issues, blending families and raising children in a Rainbow family. She is also passionate about supporting people questioning their sexuality and/or gender later in life, and also people navigating the experience of a family member coming out.
Outside of counselling, Claire can be found taking photos on wild beaches, seeking out the best coffee and spending time with family and friends. Claire is a student member of PATHA (Professional Association for Transgender Health Aotearoa). She holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (Counselling and Guidance), a Masters in Social Work (Applied) and is currently progressing towards completing her Masters in Counselling Studies.
Counsellor
Emily Fatu
Emily is working towards her Bachelor of Counselling degree and utilises a person-centred approach. She comes from a large Māori and Samoan family background and holds a Masters degree in Pacific Studies. She has always been drawn to supporting others around her and holding a safe space for people to feel heard, seen and encouraged as they navigate life’s challenges. She is empathetic, non-judgemental and advocates for mental health. She also has a particular interest in neurodiverse experiences. When not counselling or studying, she is spending time with her partner, family and community or crocheting something warm and cosy.
Counsellor
Jon Parsons
Meet Jon, a big teddy bear with an even bigger heart. Coming from Canada, he was raised in Newfoundland & Labrador as the youngest of seven children on a family farm. Following eight years of dedicated service in the Canadian Military. Drawn by New Zealand's beauty, he made the life-changing decision to relocate here 11 years ago.
Jon is working towards hid Bachelor of Counselling degree. Jon's journey into counselling reflects his passion for supporting others, he embraces a foundation in Client-Centred Counselling. With a wealth of life experience under his belt, Jon provides compassionate support to his clients, embodying the core conditions of empathy, acceptance, and trust. He is dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can explore their challenges and work towards healing and growth.
Counsellor
Latesha McDonell
Introducing Latesha, a dedicated counsellor with a compassionate approach to therapy. Latesha is working towards her Bachelor of Counselling degree. Latesha provides effective and empathetic support to individuals facing various challenges. Latesha's client-centred approach tailors her counselling to meet each individual's unique needs and preferences. She creates a safe and nurturing environment where clients feel empowered to openly explore their thoughts and emotions. Latesha is deeply committed to ongoing growth and learning, ensuring that her clients receive the highest quality of care. In her spare time, she loves spending time in nature, listening to music, and reading. Latesha is excited to walk alongside you, judgement free, and support you as you continue your journey throughout life.
Counsellor
Rachel Warwick
Introducing Rachel, a compassionate counsellor who adopts a person-centred approach to therapy. Rachel is working towards her Bachelor of Counselling degree. Her goal is to foster a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can feel empowered to tackle challenges in their lives. With over seven years of experience in the mental health and social services sector, Rachel has worked extensively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
Outside of her counselling practice, Rachel enjoys embarking on adventures with her children, cherishing quality time with friends and family, and basking in the warmth of sunny days while tending to her garden. Rachel is dedicated to supporting you on your journey towards healing and growth, providing compassionate guidance every step of the way.
Counsellor
Júlia Balestrassi
Julia has been involved in the psychology world for over eight years now, she has a passion for listening and helping others. Originally from Brazil, Julia has a vast range of experience working in the mental health field. Julia has worked with adults from multiple cultures and backgrounds, she strives to ensure she provides a non-judgemental space.
As a counsellor in Aotearoa, Julia has an ethical commitment to the care of the
clients, she runs sessions in English and Portuguese and is available for sessions online and in
person in Auckland.
Qualifications:
Bachelors Degree in Psychology;
Postgraduate Certificate in Basic Concepts in Psychoanalysis: Theory and
Practicum.
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Counsellor
Tanya Bangar
Tanya is a bright individual with a can-do attitude. She is enthusiastic about supporting people in a
kind, patient and non-judgemental manner. She is here to walk alongside her clients in their journey
of life and self-exploration. Tanya has also lived in Botswana (Africa), India and is currently living in
New Zealand. Spending time in different countries has been an amazing learning experience for her
as she gained a sense of appreciation for different traditions and cultures. Living abroad also made
Tanya reflect on her own values and helped her become more understanding, empathetic and
accepting of others. Tanya believes that every person deserves to be treated with utmost respect
and care.
Tanya speaks English and Hindi fluently. In her free time, she enjoys listening to music, reading
books and gardening. Spending time in Africa gave her an opportunity to experience wildlife
which is why she loves to immerse herself in nature and learn all about the fauna and flora in her
surroundings.
Educational qualifications - Currently working towards a Masters of Counselling. She has
completed a Bachelor of Health Science (Honours) in Psychology (First Class) and a Bachelor of
Health Science in Psychology & Public and Environmental Health. She has also completed a
Work Integrated Learning project with an organisation that supports youth with special needs.
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Counsellor
Yvonne Chow
Online Counselling
Yvonne is an experienced registered psychologist. Through her training in counselling, psychology, and neuroscience, she has developed a deep understanding of individuals' growth and well-being. She has a strong background in providing individual emotional-behavioral counselling, marital counselling, family therapy, and parenting psychoeducation. With her Asian heritage, she is able to connect with individuals who speak Chinese or English, creating a warm and inclusive environment for her clients.
Counsellor
Júlia Balestrassi
Online Counselling
Julia has been involved in the psychology world for over eight years now, she has a passion for listening and helping others. Originally from Brazil, Julia has a vast range of experience working in the mental health field. Julia has worked with adults from multiple cultures and backgrounds, she strives to ensure she provides a non-judgemental space.
As a counsellor in Aotearoa, Julia has an ethical commitment to the care of the
clients, she runs sessions in English and Portuguese and is available for sessions online and in
person in Auckland.
Qualifications:
Bachelors Degree in Psychology;
Postgraduate Certificate in Basic Concepts in Psychoanalysis: Theory and
Practicum.