What to expect when you come to counselling

Talk it through with Tiera

Choosing a Counsellor Can Feel Overwhelming—You're Not Alone

Reaching out for support takes courage. If you're feeling uncertain about where to start or what all the "counsellor lingo" means, you're not alone. Finding the right fit matters, and I want to make that process as easy and comfortable as possible.

Who I Support

I specialise in working with clients who are eager to explore and understand themselves and their world more deeply. My ideal clients are natural explorers who seek clarity and fairness in their self-perception. I thrive on supporting individuals facing significant life changes or those on the brink of taking a bold step, helping them gain clarity about their choices and values.

I connect well with deep thinkers and connectors who can approach life with a touch of humour when needed. I am particularly attuned to those who feel unseen or unheard in their lives, offering a caring and judgment-free space where they can find a supportive mirror in me as their counsellor. I hope to help you start having your own back and fully support yourself.

I am here to support you through the challenges you face and help you reignite your inner inspiration. I have noticed that a loss of hope has made it difficult for many people to accept themselves and who they are. In my counselling space, hope will be with us as we talk it through.

Areas of Interest:

Relationships 

Anxiety generalised, or specifically                                   

  • School pressures                                  

  • Social

  • Climate

  • Body dysmorphia

Depression and low mood

Loneliness

Stress

  • Workplace

  • Parenting

  • Relationships

Burnout

Confidence

Big Life transitions

  • Moving country - migrant adjustment

  • Moving jobs, schools

  • Relationship changes

How I Work

At the heart of my approach is the belief that you are the expert in your own life. My role is to walk alongside you—to help you make sense of your thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a way that feels right for you. I bring my skills and knowledge, but I also deeply respect yours.

I practice person-centred therapy, which means I value your unique experiences and trust that you have the wisdom within you to navigate challenges. I'm also trained in a pluralistic approach, which means I draw from a variety of tools and perspectives to find what works best for you. There is no one-size-fits-all in counselling—together, we will explore what feels most helpful and empowering for you.

I approach counselling with curiosity, warmth, and an open mind. My goal is not to "fix" you, but to provide a safe, non-judgemental space where you can explore your experiences, build insight, and develop strategies that truly support your wellbeing.

What Our Work Together Might Look Like

I use a range of evidence-based approaches to support our sessions, including:

Person-Centred Therapy (PCT) – creating a space where you feel heard, understood, and respected
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT & FACT) – helping you navigate difficult emotions while staying connected to what truly matters to you
Distress Tolerance Skills from DBT – practical strategies for managing overwhelming emotions
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Concepts – understanding different parts of yourself with self-compassion
Strengths-Based Approaches like Solution-Focused Therapy – building on what’s already working in your life and move towards a future goal
Mindfulness for Stress – simple techniques to help you stay grounded
Māori Wellbeing Models: Tihei-Wā Mauri Ora & Te Whare Tapa Whā – holistic approaches that honour the connection between mind, body, and spirit

A Safe and Trauma-Informed Space

I am committed to creating an environment where you feel emotionally and physically safe. My work is trauma-informed, which means I prioritise choice, transparency, and trust throughout the counselling process. From the very first session, I’ll ensure you have clear expectations and a space where you feel empowered to go at your own pace.

I welcome and affirm people from diverse cultural backgrounds, age groups, genders, and identities. My approach is inclusive, LGBTTQIA+ affirming, neurodivergent-friendly, and culturally responsive. Whoever you are, whatever your story, you are welcome here.

What’s Next?

If this approach resonates with you, I invite you to reach out. Whether you're feeling uncertain or ready to dive in, we can explore together whether I’m the right counsellor for you. You’ve already taken the first step—let’s talk about what comes next.