Many cultures, one story

My life has been shaped by more than one culture. I grew up in the Middle East, speaking Arabic and Armenian at home. I moved to New Zealand in the early 2000s with my family. Like many migrants, I knew the hope of a fresh start alongside the grief of leaving people and places behind. Those experiences help me understand clients who are finding their way between cultures, or rebuilding their lives somewhere new.

Designing spaces for people

Before becoming a counsellor, I worked in architectural engineering and urban design. That work taught me to listen deeply, and showed me how much our environments and relationships shape our wellbeing. My creative background still informs the way I work with people today.

Walking alongside people

I completed my Bachelor of Counselling degree at Laidlaw College, and I am a provisional member of the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC). I believe everyone has a unique story, strengths and capacity for growth, and I value walking alongside people as they navigate life's challenges and explore positive change.

New Dawn Counselling

I work with children, young people and adults, drawing primarily on Person-Centred, Narrative and Strengths-Based approaches. With children, I use developmentally appropriate, creative and play-based methods to support emotional expression and exploration of their experiences.

I work at each person's pace, prioritising trust, emotional safety, and a therapeutic relationship where they feel heard, respected, and accepted. I support people navigating anxiety, grief and loss, family and relationship difficulties, life transitions, questions of identity, and challenging or traumatic experiences.

My practice is grounded in empathy, respect, authenticity and genuine care, recognising each person's unique story, strengths and capacity for growth.