Halen Grbich

Kia ora,

My name is Halen and my work has involved working with individuals and couples facing a variety of issues and challenges, and with this, understanding the complexities and the fragility of ourselves as relational beings. 

Yes, I have an unusual name due to my parents love for Van Halen. I also have Māori and Croatian heritage.

As a NZAC provisionally registered counsellor I bring warmth, empathy, and unconditional positive regard to the therapeutic space. 

I am also a lecturer at MIT in Manukau.

My approach is person-centred, and I believe that you as the client, are the expert in your life, my role is to listen, provide a safe and non-judgemental space, be a guiding presence and to equip you with tools. 

While person-centred forms the basis of my work, I am familiar with and will often integrate other modalities in sessions such as Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Hauora Māori Approaches, Creative-Expressive Therapy or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). 

An important aspect to counselling for me is building that important therapeutic relationship. This includes an open dialogue between the counsellor and client so that we can both get to know one another. This allows you the time to become comfortable in sessions and allows you the time to feel safe to then be able to explore what’s important to you. 

Through an open dialogue and questions, the space is yours, my focus is on you and I’m aiming to create a picture of your challenges to then consider the next steps. Goals are also discussed as we navigate this journey together and work to restoring your wellbeing and at a pace that comfortable and authentic to you.

My role as a counsellor is very humbling and rewarding. To be a small part in your journey, to be there to support you and to witness shifts is a privilege. We are all wonderfully unique and so are our stories.

I can help you with:

• Anxiety and depression
• Low mood
• Stress
• Anger
• Chronic pain
• Endometriosis
• Loneliness
• Issues with porn
• Issues with intimacy
• Relationship issues
• Work/Life balance