Kia ora, I'm Averil, an experienced registered counsellor in private practice. I offer in-person sessions in Birkenhead on the North Shore, Auckland and online sessions using Zoom for individual and couples clients. I support clients to reduce anxiety and stress, cope with challenges, build self-esteem and motivation, and improve relationships. I work in an action-oriented way, meaning that you'll come away from sessions feeling heard and with take-home insights, techniques, resources and strategies you can apply between sessions. I use approaches including self-compassion, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and motivational techniques. Humour and genuine connection are important components of my work, as is my focus on helping clients experience tangible positive changes in their lives and mental wellbeing. I have specialised training in couples work and am New Zealand's only certified Relational Life Therapist. Developed by renowned therapist Terry Real, Relational Life Therapy is a modern, direct, and efficient approach for making long-lasting and meaningful relationship changes. Whether we are focusing on workplace stress or anxiety, issues at home, or unpacking how childhood difficulties might be affecting your day-to-day, my aim is help you build self-understanding and acceptance and learn skills that support you to make the changes that matter. Please visit my personal website for more detailed information about me, my approach to therapy, and the intake process for couples work.