Emma Hunter

Introduction

Kia ora,  I am a trauma-informed therapeutic practitioner. My practice integrates trauma-informed wholistic therapeutic approaches with cultural responsiveness, offering a unique blend of professional expertise and cultural understanding to support tangata whai ora and whānau on their journey to wellness.

My Approach

At the heart of my practice is a mana-enhancing, culturally responsive framework that recognises the intricate connections between trauma, substance abuse, and cultural identity. I understand that healing is a multifaceted process, encompassing not just the individual, but their whānau and wider community.

Key aspects of my therapeutic approach include:

Integration of Te Ao Māori models such as Te Whare Tapa Whā, Te Wheke and Pae Tata Pae Ta Whiti

Utilisation of Relational theory, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Dialectal Behaviour Therapy

Focus on whānau ora and collective healing

Emphasis on building resilience and developing healthy coping strategies

Through my trauma-informed lens, I systematically address the well-documented association between substance abuse and historical experiences of sexual abuse and trauma among tangata whai ora. This approach is grounded in Māori-centered perspectives that recognise all forms of violence as violations of mana and tapu, while also being accessible and effective for both Māori and non-Māori clients.

Qualifications

• EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy - Currently training 
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Trauma and Addictions 
• Motivational Interviewing (MI) 
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
• Post Graduate Cultural Supervision Level 8 
• Abacus Mental Health and Addiction Supervision Level 6 

Experience

My Commitment

As a trauma-informed therapeutic practitioner, I am committed to:

• Providing a safe, culturally responsive environment for healing
• Honouring your cultural identity and lived experiences
• Facilitating wholistic healing that encompasses spiritual, emotional, physical, and intellectual dimensions
• Supporting you in building healthier relationships and stronger connections to self and others
• Empowering you to develop resilience and effective coping strategies

I understand that trauma can profoundly impact every aspect of a person's life. My trauma-informed approach ensures that I remain sensitive to these impacts, avoiding re-traumatization while fostering a sense of safety, trust, and empowerment throughout our work together.

Through individual counselling and therapeutic group work, I create safe spaces for exploration, growth, and collective healing. My approach is particularly attuned to the needs of those dealing with historical sexual abuse, trauma, substance abuse, and complex interpersonal challenges.Together, we will work towards Pae Ora - healthy futures for you and your whānau. Through our collaborative journey, you'll discover your innate strength and capacity for recovery, all within a nurturing wholistic framework that respects and incorporates te āo Māori principles.