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.

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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.

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Counsellor

Rochelle Jackson

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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 

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 in the final stages of completing her Masters in Counselling Studies. 

Counsellor

Shona Frost

Shona is currently working towards her Bachelors of Counselling and Addictions Practice and uses a person centred approach. She comes from a big Zimbabwean, Māori and British family. Shona has wanted to be a counsellor since she was 8 years old. The idea of supporting and helping people through the challenges life can bring has always interested her. Some of her strengths are building authentic relationships with people of all ages, being non-judgmental and also being compassionate. When not studying or counselling she is spending time with whanau, friends or reading a good book.

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

Taina Tukia

Taina is a dedicated and compassionate individual. She is from a large Tongan family background and is pursuing her Bachelor of Counselling degree. Taina employs a person-centred approach (PCP, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and holds a safe, non-judgmental space for people to be heard. Her unwavering passion lies in supporting and empowering individuals to achieve optimal mental health and well-being with purpose, resilience, and a positive outlook. In her spare time, Taina enjoys bushwalking, spending time with family and friends, as well as indulging in nature outings and plant-based baking.

Counsellor

Katie Morton (they/them)

​Katie is a compassionate and creative counsellor who welcomes clients from all backgrounds into their pluralistic and person-centered practice. They offer tailored therapies that can include creative expression, art, play, solution-focused, narrative, and trauma-informed approaches, ensuring personalised support for overcoming obstacles and fostering personal growth. With particular expertise in supporting teens, young adults, and members of the LGBTQIA+ Rainbow community, Katie creates a safe and inclusive space for diversity and exploration. Outside of counselling, Katie shares their home with their partner, child, and two beloved cats, finding joy in music, composing, reading, theatre, and community.

Counsellor

Hamza Contractor

Hamza is a multi-cultured individual who draws from a diverse personal and professional background to provide a therapeutic experience. He is currently pursuing a degree in counselling and addictions and seeks to create a warm, trusting, and safe space for clients. His developed skills include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, risk assessment, de-escalation, and conflict resolution, enabling him to support people through a range of situations during life’s journey. 

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Beyond counselling, Hamza holds a degree in international relations and political science, has completed a basic web development course, worked as an operations advisor for The Department of Corrections and continues to engage in various trades related projects. His free time takes him into nature, arts, crafts, sports, and spiritual practices. Hamza naturally enjoys learning about different people and cultures while considering a balanced, holistic approach to counselling.