Special expertise
I am a Registered Clinical Arts Therapist with ANZACATA, a registered Social Worker, and an approved external supervisor with ANZASW, based in Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand.
My professional journey began with my own personal development, leading me into telephone counselling, youth work, community support and mental health. I facilitated groups for young women and migrant youth, delivered school workshops, worked in youth justice residential services, and supported young people transitioning into independence and employment. I later qualified as a Social Worker, working in Care and Protection and independently supporting people to regain independence following physical and acquired brain injuries.
Following my graduation as an Arts Therapist, I worked in private practice with neurodivergent children before expanding into school-based Arts Therapy and group facilitation. I now work independently, providing ACC Sensitive Claims therapy, short-term EAP counselling for adults, and external supervision for social workers and other health professionals. I have also contributed to professional development through a webinar exploring how the arts can enhance social work assessment and engagement.
More recently, my work has become closely connected with homelessness and transitional housing, supporting people navigating complex mental health challenges, addiction, trauma, domestic and family violence, grief, loss of identity, and experiences of harm to self and others. I am particularly mindful of the impacts of colonisation, disconnection and the deeper spiritual distress that can accompany these experiences.
I currently offer individual therapy online and in person in Auckland Central, including within a transitional housing setting, where I also facilitate a community Arts Drop-in group for tenants. My wider experience includes ACC-funded groups, wellbeing workshops and Community Applied Theatre.
My approach is relational and trauma-informed, drawing on expressive arts therapies, creativity and conversation to support exploration, connection and wellbeing. Originally from Chile, I am fluent in Spanish and English and value the diverse cultural contexts that shape people's experiences
