I am from a small Māori community, Papawai, where I listened and learnt stories from people much older and wiser than me. I have lived in different parts of the country and in my 20’s set my sights on playing rugby league professionally overseas. Injury (and my own belief I was made of steel) brought my playing days to an end and left me wondering if I wasn’t a local league legend, what was I? I’ve spent years exploring that question. Along the way I have had six beautiful children and plenty of opportunities to learn, reflect, and grow myself as a person. Lots of my learning has come from my mistakes and (eventually) a willingness to stop repeating them! Understanding more about myself and my past has created greater opportunities for my future.

 

I completed my psychotherapy training 2018 with the Hakomi Institute. I am a Certified Hakomi Therapist with additional training in working with trauma. Previously, I worked in community counselling and men’s stopping violence programmes. I’ve spent many years facilitating men’s groups, taught yoga at Remutaka prison, and run men’s community yoga; bro-ga. https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/97668587/mens-yoga--or-broga--deployed-in-battle-for-mens-mental-health). Having worked with hundreds of men of all backgrounds over many years, I’m very familiar with the terrain. I approach my work with a compassion and wisdom gained through my own experience. experience.