0800 63 62 63
Our Clinicians
Available Remotely / Wellington / Auckland / Northland / Manawatu / Central Nth Island / Canterbury / Otago / Southland
Michael Keith - Therapist
Location: Wellington
I am a counsellor and mental health coach in private practice, with a special interest in trauma resolution.
My training in the Human Givens approach (humangivens.com) is aimed at delivering effective brief therapy for clients. It is based on empowering insights into the place of emotional wellbeing in healthy minds. It includes the rewind process, using deep relaxation and guided imagery, for resolving trauma.
The rewind process is the therapy of choice for trauma support organisations like PTSD Resolution in the UK (ptsdresolution.org). The process is non-intrusive – there is no need for the client to recount their trauma. They simply need to be able to access its emotional effect. The process essentially reprograms the disturbing triggering and turns traumatic memory into a normal, if bad, one.
The rewind is part of the Human Givens’ holistic approach. This works with how the client is meeting their emotional needs and dealing with the challenges of their current situation. The approach is aimed at empowering the client to use their inborn resources and the strengths of their life skills to achieve their goals for emotional wellbeing and clear thinking.
My training in the Human Givens approach (humangivens.com) is aimed at delivering effective brief therapy for clients. It is based on empowering insights into the place of emotional wellbeing in healthy minds. It includes the rewind process, using deep relaxation and guided imagery, for resolving trauma.
The rewind process is the therapy of choice for trauma support organisations like PTSD Resolution in the UK (ptsdresolution.org). The process is non-intrusive – there is no need for the client to recount their trauma. They simply need to be able to access its emotional effect. The process essentially reprograms the disturbing triggering and turns traumatic memory into a normal, if bad, one.
The rewind is part of the Human Givens’ holistic approach. This works with how the client is meeting their emotional needs and dealing with the challenges of their current situation. The approach is aimed at empowering the client to use their inborn resources and the strengths of their life skills to achieve their goals for emotional wellbeing and clear thinking.
Richard Jeffrey - Therapist
Location: Wellington
Hi, I am an experienced trauma therapist and have a long history working with male survivors of trauma, having been one of the founding trustees of New Zealand’s first peer support service for male survivors of sexual abuse in the early 1990s.
I strongly believe that supporting men to work through the challenges that often accompany abuse benefits their relationships and the community as well.
I am experienced in working with people of all ages, genders and sexual orientations. I like working with young people, couples and families.
My clients include Pakeha, Maori, Pacifica, African, Asian and other ethnic groups. People from the Disabled, Rainbow, Kink and Refugee communities
My skill set includes: Therapeutic
- Somatic experiencing Therapy
- Emotional Regulation: anger management, dissociation
- Therapeutic peer support groups
- Trauma and Sexual abuse recovery
- Relationships, Family violence, Narcissistic abuse
- Racism, Homophobia, Transphobia and other issues of bigotry and discrimination
My skill set includes: Supervision
My skill set includes: Training
I have worked in a number of settings, including:
I strongly believe that supporting men to work through the challenges that often accompany abuse benefits their relationships and the community as well.
I am experienced in working with people of all ages, genders and sexual orientations. I like working with young people, couples and families.
My clients include Pakeha, Maori, Pacifica, African, Asian and other ethnic groups. People from the Disabled, Rainbow, Kink and Refugee communities
My skill set includes: Therapeutic
- Somatic experiencing Therapy
- Emotional Regulation: anger management, dissociation
- Therapeutic peer support groups
- Trauma and Sexual abuse recovery
- Relationships, Family violence, Narcissistic abuse
- Racism, Homophobia, Transphobia and other issues of bigotry and discrimination
My skill set includes: Supervision
- Supervision for Counsellors and Therapists
- Mentoring Students
My skill set includes: Training
- Writing and delivering Trauma Education courses
- Writing and delivering Trauma in the Workplace workshops
I have worked in a number of settings, including:
- Corrections
- Student counselling
- Suicidality
- Community development
- Police advocacy and court support
Carlos Riegalhaupt - Music Therapist
Location: Wellington
Kia ora, I am a NZ Registered Music Therapist with experience working in corrections, addictions recovery, and inpatient, outpatient and community mental health settings. I have a background in culinary arts, woodworking, permaculture, making musical instruments, live music performances, and community music events. I love nature, gardening, live music, and any creative expression.
As a therapist, my clinical work centers on supporting people who experience psychological, mental/emotional, behavioral, physiological, or neurological challenges. In my work I strive to provide culturally sensitive care to assist people in our communities in a way that is inclusive to all. I bring a non-judgmental, curious and compassionate presence to support the therapeutic needs and well-being of the participants and their whānau. My approach is collaborative, strength-based, values-driven, experiential, empathetic, and playful in the true sense of ‘playing with music’. I believe that highlighting the participants’ strengths while considering their cultural and personal values can strengthen the therapeutic alliance and support achieving therapeutic goals. I follow a humanistic approach to therapy, which emphasizes warmth, authenticity, humor, and appreciation for the uniqueness of every individual.
I am trained in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (PAT) with MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies) and IPI (Integrative Psychiatry Institute) in Boulder, Colorado. I have also trained in the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music, serving as a foundational framework for the use of music as a tool for the exploration of consciousness and healing. I have a particular interest in the intersection of music, music technology, and exploring ways to enhance the power of music as a psychotherapeutic adjuvant in PAT.
I feel fortunate to be able to use music as a tool to support people in our communities. I am passionate about exploring creative ways of using music to facilitate therapeutic processes and foster well-being.
As a therapist, my clinical work centers on supporting people who experience psychological, mental/emotional, behavioral, physiological, or neurological challenges. In my work I strive to provide culturally sensitive care to assist people in our communities in a way that is inclusive to all. I bring a non-judgmental, curious and compassionate presence to support the therapeutic needs and well-being of the participants and their whānau. My approach is collaborative, strength-based, values-driven, experiential, empathetic, and playful in the true sense of ‘playing with music’. I believe that highlighting the participants’ strengths while considering their cultural and personal values can strengthen the therapeutic alliance and support achieving therapeutic goals. I follow a humanistic approach to therapy, which emphasizes warmth, authenticity, humor, and appreciation for the uniqueness of every individual.
I am trained in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (PAT) with MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies) and IPI (Integrative Psychiatry Institute) in Boulder, Colorado. I have also trained in the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music, serving as a foundational framework for the use of music as a tool for the exploration of consciousness and healing. I have a particular interest in the intersection of music, music technology, and exploring ways to enhance the power of music as a psychotherapeutic adjuvant in PAT.
I feel fortunate to be able to use music as a tool to support people in our communities. I am passionate about exploring creative ways of using music to facilitate therapeutic processes and foster well-being.
Jonny Robertson - student counsellor
Location: Wellington
Institutionalised twice as a teenager, I have since had decades of experience supporting people from varied backgrounds to address challenges with substance abuse and accompanying mental health issues. I have a deep passion for talk therapy, the experience of relationship it can provide, and the potential that such a relationship can have to alter our sense of ourselves and others. I believe that regardless of our personal history, we each have great potential for change, and that a large part of this change can come about through the process of learning to become curious about ourselves.
Emma Jackett-Simpson- student counsellor
Location: Wellington
My journey into counselling and addiction support is deeply rooted in my own life experiences and the transformative impact therapy has had on me and those close to me. Having grown up witnessing the effects of depression within my family, I developed a strong interest in understanding mental health, human behaviour, and the tools that support recovery.
Counselling gave me the space to heal, reflect, and grow. It offered a safe, non-judgmental environment where I could process challenges, reframe negative beliefs, and build emotional resilience. This personal journey inspired a strong desire to support others navigating similar struggles.
Alongside academic study and extensive self-education, I’ve gained valuable frontline experience working in rehabilitation settings with individuals facing addiction and mental health challenges. These roles deepened my understanding of the human condition and strengthened my belief in the importance of empathy, cultural awareness, and treating each person as an individual.
Now, I’m committed to using my lived experience, professional insight, and passion for mental wellness to help others find clarity, strength, and a renewed sense of purpose in their lives.
Counselling gave me the space to heal, reflect, and grow. It offered a safe, non-judgmental environment where I could process challenges, reframe negative beliefs, and build emotional resilience. This personal journey inspired a strong desire to support others navigating similar struggles.
Alongside academic study and extensive self-education, I’ve gained valuable frontline experience working in rehabilitation settings with individuals facing addiction and mental health challenges. These roles deepened my understanding of the human condition and strengthened my belief in the importance of empathy, cultural awareness, and treating each person as an individual.
Now, I’m committed to using my lived experience, professional insight, and passion for mental wellness to help others find clarity, strength, and a renewed sense of purpose in their lives.
Kazu Toyoshima - student counsellor
Location: Wellington
Kia ora,
I am Kazu Toyoshima, originally from Japan, I've been living in Aotearoa New Zealand for 20 years, a place I now proudly call home.
My journey into counselling has been shaped by both personal experience and professional dedication. After working in the disability sector for more than 15 years, I've had the privilege of supporting people with a wide range of abilities, backgrounds, and needs. That work taught me the value of meeting people where they are and holding space for their stories with care and respect. My own experiences of trauma and grief have played a significant role in shaping who I am and the path I've chosen. They became the foundation for my commitment to a career focused on supporting people in need. My work is grounded in empathy, respect and strong belief in the value of every person's story.
I am Kazu Toyoshima, originally from Japan, I've been living in Aotearoa New Zealand for 20 years, a place I now proudly call home.
My journey into counselling has been shaped by both personal experience and professional dedication. After working in the disability sector for more than 15 years, I've had the privilege of supporting people with a wide range of abilities, backgrounds, and needs. That work taught me the value of meeting people where they are and holding space for their stories with care and respect. My own experiences of trauma and grief have played a significant role in shaping who I am and the path I've chosen. They became the foundation for my commitment to a career focused on supporting people in need. My work is grounded in empathy, respect and strong belief in the value of every person's story.
Holly Barnes - student counsellor
Location: Wellington
Hello, my name is Holly Barnes and I am a counselling student at Whitireia.
I have spent my whole working life in the social services as a youth worker, community support worker and a teacher aide. Through my own mental health struggles I realized how important it is to have good access to appropriate support and services. I have a passion for working with people with ASD, and other people who are neuro-diverse. I also spent time living in Karachi city and Istanbul as a young person and enjoy working with people from all walks of life and all different backgrounds. When I’m not studying or working I enjoy spending time with my whanau and friends. I'm an avid NBA fan and I love a good quiz night.
I have spent my whole working life in the social services as a youth worker, community support worker and a teacher aide. Through my own mental health struggles I realized how important it is to have good access to appropriate support and services. I have a passion for working with people with ASD, and other people who are neuro-diverse. I also spent time living in Karachi city and Istanbul as a young person and enjoy working with people from all walks of life and all different backgrounds. When I’m not studying or working I enjoy spending time with my whanau and friends. I'm an avid NBA fan and I love a good quiz night.
Jonathan Beezer
Location: Wellington
Life is often hard, and for many years I've found it enormously helpful to talk my problems through with a counsellor.
I have personal lived experience of depression, suicidal thoughts, significant mental illness, divorce, job loss, and more. I have also discovered the joy of facing my issues, taking responsibility for myself, and moving on to live a positive and fulfilling life. I would love to work with you using my experience and training to help you figure out how to get through your stuff.
Along with the primary issues we work with at Men and Trauma, I specialise in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other common mental/emotional challenges. As well as relationship problems, grief, life goals, meaning of life, stress, work conflicts, and more. I am fond of CBT and broadly Rogerian approaches, however I favour choosing the techniques that will best fit your needs, in consultation with you.
I'm now in my 50s and jobs I've worked in include builder's labourer, steel factory shift worker, web developer, business analyst, university tutor. I have a Masters degree in sociology, and my unpublished PhD thesis was the basis for learning to overcome my bipolar disorder. Peer support is a foundation of my approach. In this regard, I am also a board member of Kites NZ, a well-regarded peer-based mental health charity, and I was a past "consumer advisor" to the Wellington 3DHB before its restructure.
Complementing my work with Men and Trauma I run my own counselling practice.
In my personal life, I am a father to two awesome kids, and am passionate about music, close friends, cooking, and nature.
I have personal lived experience of depression, suicidal thoughts, significant mental illness, divorce, job loss, and more. I have also discovered the joy of facing my issues, taking responsibility for myself, and moving on to live a positive and fulfilling life. I would love to work with you using my experience and training to help you figure out how to get through your stuff.
Along with the primary issues we work with at Men and Trauma, I specialise in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other common mental/emotional challenges. As well as relationship problems, grief, life goals, meaning of life, stress, work conflicts, and more. I am fond of CBT and broadly Rogerian approaches, however I favour choosing the techniques that will best fit your needs, in consultation with you.
I'm now in my 50s and jobs I've worked in include builder's labourer, steel factory shift worker, web developer, business analyst, university tutor. I have a Masters degree in sociology, and my unpublished PhD thesis was the basis for learning to overcome my bipolar disorder. Peer support is a foundation of my approach. In this regard, I am also a board member of Kites NZ, a well-regarded peer-based mental health charity, and I was a past "consumer advisor" to the Wellington 3DHB before its restructure.
Complementing my work with Men and Trauma I run my own counselling practice.
In my personal life, I am a father to two awesome kids, and am passionate about music, close friends, cooking, and nature.
Chris Beattie - student counsellor
Location: Wellington
With a background in crisis and trauma psychology and a history of working with the disadvantaged, the differently able, and with refugee groups, Chris is a volunteer counsellor with a passion for people and community. Having personal experience with trauma and neurodiversity, Chris believes that who we are and how we treat is each other is what defines us - both as individuals and a species.
Reace Cloete - Counsellor
Location: Wellington
Kia ora, my name is Reace, and I am a volunteer counsellor with Trauma Recovery Aotearoa and a provisional member of the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC).
My work is grounded in a person-centred, holistic approach, where I aim to offer a safe, respectful, and non-judgmental space for people to explore their experiences at their own pace. I have experience supporting individuals with trauma, addiction, anxiety, and depression, and I value working collaboratively with each person to understand what support looks like for them.
I draw on narrative, motivational, and solution-focused ways of working to help people make sense of their experiences, reconnect with their strengths, and move toward meaningful change. My approach is flexible and guided by the needs, values, and goals of the person I am working with.
Originally from South Africa and now living in Aotearoa New Zealand, I bring an awareness of cultural context, identity, and lived experience into my work. I am committed to ongoing learning, reflective practice, and providing support that is ethical, compassionate, and grounded in respect for each person’s story.
My work is grounded in a person-centred, holistic approach, where I aim to offer a safe, respectful, and non-judgmental space for people to explore their experiences at their own pace. I have experience supporting individuals with trauma, addiction, anxiety, and depression, and I value working collaboratively with each person to understand what support looks like for them.
I draw on narrative, motivational, and solution-focused ways of working to help people make sense of their experiences, reconnect with their strengths, and move toward meaningful change. My approach is flexible and guided by the needs, values, and goals of the person I am working with.
Originally from South Africa and now living in Aotearoa New Zealand, I bring an awareness of cultural context, identity, and lived experience into my work. I am committed to ongoing learning, reflective practice, and providing support that is ethical, compassionate, and grounded in respect for each person’s story.
Sibaa Kaka - Student Counsellor
My name is Sibaa Kaka, I was born in Iraq, and I have lived in New Zealand with my family since 2015. I have a long academic and professional background in psychology and counselling, with my specialized interest in this field dating back to 2001. I studied psychology for three years and obtained a diploma in psychology and counselling, which provided me with a solid theoretical and methodological foundation for understanding human behavior, psychological processes, and individual and social dynamics.
In addition to my academic background, I have nineteen years of practical experience in counseling, during which I have worked with individuals facing various psychological crises and emotional challenges, including issues related to stress, trauma, and adjustment difficulties. This extensive field experience has honed my professional skills, enhanced my ability to bridge theory and practice, and enabled me to adopt counseling approaches that consider the human, cultural, and contextual dimensions of each case.
As part of my ongoing professional development, I am currently in the second phase of a counselling and addiction practice program. This program expands my expertise in addressing addiction disorders and supporting individuals on their recovery journeys, using established ethical and scientific approaches.
I am currently working with eight clients, providing them with professional psychological support based on my practical experience and ethical counseling principles, particularly those related to confidentiality, respect for human dignity, and building effective therapeutic relationships.
Furthermore, I am multilingual, speaking four languages: Assyrian, Chaldean, Arabic, and English. This linguistic ability is a significant asset in my counseling work, enabling effective communication with individuals from diverse cultural and socio-psychological backgrounds and a deeper understanding of the cultural and psychological context of those receiving counseling services.
In addition to my academic background, I have nineteen years of practical experience in counseling, during which I have worked with individuals facing various psychological crises and emotional challenges, including issues related to stress, trauma, and adjustment difficulties. This extensive field experience has honed my professional skills, enhanced my ability to bridge theory and practice, and enabled me to adopt counseling approaches that consider the human, cultural, and contextual dimensions of each case.
As part of my ongoing professional development, I am currently in the second phase of a counselling and addiction practice program. This program expands my expertise in addressing addiction disorders and supporting individuals on their recovery journeys, using established ethical and scientific approaches.
I am currently working with eight clients, providing them with professional psychological support based on my practical experience and ethical counseling principles, particularly those related to confidentiality, respect for human dignity, and building effective therapeutic relationships.
Furthermore, I am multilingual, speaking four languages: Assyrian, Chaldean, Arabic, and English. This linguistic ability is a significant asset in my counseling work, enabling effective communication with individuals from diverse cultural and socio-psychological backgrounds and a deeper understanding of the cultural and psychological context of those receiving counseling services.
