Sue Nicholls

Every moment by our actions, we are choosing who we are being.
– Sartre

I believe we are all deserving of a life we dream of and that within each of us is the capacity to realise our full potential. I feel privileged to be involved in this therapeutic relationship where people can learn to respond to the difficulties and challenges they face in a more self-aware manner, become stronger, and find contentment and fulfilment in their lives.

Areas of Special Interest

• Life transitions & changes.
• Wellbeing & life balance.
• Relationships, communication & connectedness.
• Parenting & Family dynamics.
• Grief, anger, anxiety, fear, stress, depression, motivation, self-awareness, confidence.
• Positive cycle of communication.

Couples Counselling

I am particularly passionate about working with the challenges that relationships bring, and have over 24 years experience working with couples on a broad range of issues. I help them discover new ways of communicating and relating to each other, develop a deeper awareness of themselves and their partner, and support their growth both individually and together. I provide a safe and reflective environment for couples to share their vulnerabilities and hurts so they can deepen their trust and intimacy on every level and therefore build stronger more fulfilling relationships.

For those couples who want to make their existing relationship more connected and communicate more effectively, I support them to get beyond the old triggers that sabotage their relationship. I am also skilled at supporting people through either a relationship breakdown or separation to develop respectful ways of communicating with each other, either in regards to a healthier co-parenting relationship or to help them make mutually agreeable decisions about their children.

Counselling Approach

In my private practice I base my philosophy on a humanistic model where I connect with my clients in a warm and professional way. I work collaboratively to identify strengths and passions, change unwanted behaviours, and experience life from a more consciously aware place. Being able to share your story and find a positive cycle of communication often helps clarify and normalise your feelings of despair and confusion. My belief is that we each have the capacity to realise our true potential and move through the challenges we face to become stronger and grow from these difficult times and often painful experiences.

With couples I work with a combination of approaches including the Developmental Model of Bader Pearson Couple Therapy, The Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy to assist my clients and my practice.

I undertake regular supervision, and continually invest in my professional development.

Background and Experience

My passion for the counselling journey began 28 years ago when I worked for a family support agency supporting families who were struggling with life’s challenges and demands. Having a large family of my own I knew first-hand how challenging and overwhelming parenting and family life can be, and how we often struggle silently alone. I was in awe of the shift people could make when given unconditional support and empathy.

After ten years of study combined with working for other counselling agencies and then being a Registered Family Court Counsellor I began my private practice in Orewa  in 1998. I immensely enjoy the diversity of private practice where my clients range from individuals to couples seeking therapy.