While both services are strengths and values based and respect the person as the expert in their life, they have a different focus.

• Coaching is about "Aligning Action with Authenticity" - it is forward focused, it's purpose to develop practical strategies that empower clients to bridge the gap between their current situation or circumstance and where they want to be.

• Solution Focused Counselling is about "Aligning Experience with Understanding" - it's a space to navigate life's challenges, vent without judgment, and separate your core self from the problems you are facing so that you can feel steady and resilient again.

Often, when we struggle for a long time, we start to believe that we are the problem (eg "I'm just lazy" or "I am an anxious person" or "I'm too dumb" etc).

In our sessions, we look at the problem as something external that is affecting you. By naming the problem and seeing it as separate from your identity, it becomes much easier to manage and move through.

Absolutely 100% yes.
You are free to be exactly who you are. I understand that the world is not always understanding of or built for neurodivergent brains (like ADHD or high sensitivity).
Our sessions are inclusive of sensory and emotional needs, and our focus is what you need to reach your potential no matter how your brain works. We don't do pigeonholes!

My practice is a great fit for people who are navigating life's transitions, feeling stuck or simply needing a non-judgmental space to process their thoughts.

It is for those who are willing, and emotionally and mentally stable enough to engage in self-reflection, which can be confronting and challenging, but feel that life's challenges are standing in the way of their potential. 

It means that I do not have my Bachelor of Applied Counselling yet, rather I am working towards it. 

I work under the guidance of a qualified counsellor who is my supervisor and follow the new Zealand Association of Counsellors Code of Ethics to ensure I am providing you with the best standard of care that I am capable of. If a client's needs are greater than I have training for, I refer so that they get the best standard of care available to them in their circumstances.

Because I am a student, I focus on supporting people through situational life challenges and "standard" challenges rather than clinical crises or active addictions.

Because I am a student counsellor, my practice is not equipped to provide crisis intervention, addiction support, or acute mental health care.

If you are in immediate distress, please reach out to Lifeline Aotearoa dial 0800543354
or Emergency services dial 111

In our consultation, we'll work together to:

1. Give you an opportunity to teach me more about the issue and how it affects you to give me insight into what your struggles are.

2. Assess whether your needs are within my capability so that you get the level of service you need. If I feel that you need a qualified counsellor I will refer you so that you get what you need to move ahead.

3. If appropriate book a date to get started with solution focused counselling to support you to overcome your challenges.

Because Debbie is a student counsellor she manages her bookings to ensure that she can meet the needs of her clients with integrity and respect.

The first session is all about getting to know you, understanding more about what is weighing on your heart and mind, and ensuring you feel safe and heard. 
There is no pressure to perform or have all the answers, it is simply a time for us to start walking together, to support you as you navigate the challenge that brought you to Free to Be.

Sessions are an 50 minutes each. 
The cost of a session is $95

All counselling sessions are online.
I use secure video-conferencing software that is encrypted for your security and privacy.
I work in a private space where there is no risk of eavesdropping. It is advisable that you do the same so that you are free to talk without fear of being overheard or being interrupted.

I really enjoy working with people online.  For some people it seems to give them enough distance and privacy to really invest in the time we have together.