About Us
Who Am I?
About me
Kia ora, my name is Fiona. I was brought up in Hawkes Bay but have called Wellington home for over twenty-five years.
I bring to counselling what I have learnt professionally through my experience in working in midwifery and mental health, but also my lived experience in adaptation and behaviour change throughout my life. I have had my own life challenges and pain to navigate as part of being a fellow human.
Consequently, I am understanding and curious about other people’s journey through their own challenges. I bring to counselling genuine and open communication, and my commitment to the person in front of me.
I bring skills in behaviour change, addiction, mental health, and working with youth. I have a special interest in birth trauma.
Outside of work, I enjoy fitness, walking my dog, movies, quiz nights, and spending time with friends and family.
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I am a proud member of the International Coaching Federation.
Professional Membership
I am a full member of DAPAANZ as an Addiction and Problem Gambling Practitioner and Accredited Supervisor. Consequently, I have ethical responsibilities to my clients.
There is also an established process for any concerns and feedback. I am also a registered midwife.
To understand my responsibilities that guide my care, you can read the DAPAANZ code of ethics.
Qualification
I am a registered nurse and midwife. I completed postgraduate study at Auckland University in Addiction Studies.
My study at Auckland University has equipped me to provide trauma-informed therapeutic counselling in both addiction and mental health.
I also have further study in:
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Coaching
- Birth Trauma
Experience
My latest experience in mental health has been as a counsellor in a youth mental health and addiction team.
I also have private experience as a counsellor and coach. Prior to that, I worked as a health improvement practitioner, helping people of all ages with a wide range of challenges within a general practice setting.
My experience includes both brief interventions and long-term counselling.
I also have 30 years of experience as a lead maternity carer midwife, supporting women choosing home birth and physiological birth in hospital settings.
Change Up is not your average coaching company – it’s my baby and it’s born out of my experiences in the health profession.
I’m Fiona and I’m here to delve into what makes you tick; help you discover what you’re looking for and then work together to map out a plan for your future. Just like any great relationship – we’ll start with a conversation – I’d love to know how I can help you put positive changes in place.Your Counsellor & Wellbeing Coach
Meet Fiona
For over 25 years I have been a midwife, supporting women and their partners through one of the most challenging transitions in life. I am also employed as a health improvement practitioner supporting people with behavioural change – one habit at a time.
I have experience adjusting to living in a different culture. I have had experience troubleshooting being in an unhappy work environment and coming out stronger on the other side.
I’m also a parent (I love my three kids and my dog Rosie) and have experienced single parenting – I know all about the highs and lows! And I know the importance of focusing on my own holistic wellbeing, that’s why I have a coach myself.
I totally believe in the power of coaching, the deepened self-awareness it brings and the shifts in positivity that come with it. And that’s why I want to share this with you.
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Testimonial
