I have been privileged to call Aotearoa/New Zealand home since 2003. Making the most of an unexpected migration opportunity. Embarking on a journey of learning: Academically, I began with NZQA Certificate in Youth Work, continuing on to tertiary study Graduating with a Degree in Counselling and a Diploma in Integrative Psychology (Hakomi). Subsequently I have continued to develop my counselling skills with Traditional Talk Therapy supported with more creative modalities: Sandplay Therapy. Culturally I've had the privilege of experiencing life on a Marae, of being whangai. I continue to work on my confidence in Te Reo Maori and my knowledge of Te Ao Maori. My career has seen me specialise as a Women’s Counsellor, a Rural Community Counsellor and a Youth Counsellor. In 2016 I established my private practice, Tuatara Counselling Services, from the beginning, where I will combine this experience and knowledge in our work together. Why 'Tuatara Counselling Services, from the beginning'? My business name arose from a chance ‘meeting’ with a Tuatara many years ago. I sat captivated by it, sensing its wisdom, seeing it strong and grounded enjoying its connection with the sand. I now understand Tuatara to be treasured guardians. On sharing my thoughts of 'Tuatara Counselling Services', my cultural mentor supported the choice and gifted me the idea for the full name of my business, linking as it does all aspects of Sandplay and Tuatara.