Jennifer O’Flynn

Areas of Interest

• Neurodiversity – ADHD and Autism
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Grief and Loss
• Trauma
• Work Stress
• Spirituality/Existential Concerns
• Life Transitions
• Parenting/Family Issues

Counselling Approach

Coming to counselling can be a challenge, so it’s important that clients feel as much at ease as possible in taking this step. I offer sessions that are based on establishing good connections between myself and the client, embedded in a client-centred practice so that helpful changes can be made in your life.

I am committed to working alongside my clients to achieve the best possible outcomes. My approach is empathetic and non-judgemental. I work flexibly and collaboratively with my clients and aim to customize sessions to meet individual needs based on the evidence as well as my own experience and training.

My approach focuses on giving attention to the emotional and the practical. This begins in offering a space to share your issues and concerns around what has led you to counselling and how they may be impacting you in life. We can then explore what is important to you and what your expectations of therapy are. Based on this discussion and understanding, we can then strategize towards goals and outcomes that will formulate a plan you feel comfortable with, holding space for emotional processing along the way.

Methods of therapy I integrate in this process may include but are not limited to, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT), and mindfulness-based techniques.  These are evidence-based methods that can be customized to your individual needs.

Experience

My practice is informed by a range of interactions with people. Early experiences include teaching and facilitations in church ministry and school settings to families, individuals and children’s programs. I have had the privilege of training in university counselling centres and Youthline and developed a passion for working alongside young adults and the challenges they face in early adulthood. I have expertise in assessing high risk individuals and providing the supports needed through counselling and other mental health services. I have also worked as a wellbeing specialist, providing holistic mental health services to workplaces and their employees through individual therapy and group counselling in teamwork environments.

I have professional and lived experience working with neurodiversity, in particular, ADHD. I thrive in helping individuals and family members discover practical tools and mindsets to help shift from the challenges this can bring.

Alongside my private practice, I continue to facilitate trauma and crisis management counselling for groups in employment spaces.

I abide by the New Zealand Christian Counselling Association’s Code of Ethics and have regular and ongoing supervision, both of which support me to work in a safe and ethical manner.