About me
I am grateful for everything that has happened to me in my life. All contrasts have pointed me to discover a deeper truth. Trauma has been a beautiful gift of recognising an unknown, ever-expanding capacity to meet anything that shows up in my life. I love what I do and it’s an honour and privilege to work alongside people and witness their expansion.
I grew up in a predominantly Māori setting. I am grateful to experience an era where our old people lived and expressed themselves with the power and grace of Mauri. On the other extreme was my personal challenge of human suffering. I experienced the trauma of separation as a baby, creating serious health problems and then witnessed violence growing up.
The outcome was an unsettled life, feeling like I didn’t fit in and belong anywhere and unconsciously looking externally for love and to be wanted. The pattern was set of unhappiness, addiction and dysfunctional relationships.
I initially worked as a youth worker then as a family violence facilitator for over 30 years. I have continued to work with individuals and couples. I trained as clinical hypnotherapist and spent a short time involved with Restorative Justice. There was an unconscious seeking to heal an emptiness inside and seeking an answer to why we have to suffer?
In 2001 I met and worked with a Maori Tohunga (High priest or Shaman). His humble but deep integrity was reflected in his profound work and miraculous healings. For me to witness something happening beyond mainstream health, and experience the living expression of how our ancestors worked, was an enchanting privilege.
The ending of another relationship led me to the Leela School of awakening as a therapist. It helped me discover and deepen into Mauri. Bringing to life what was always innate within.