Counselling

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Waitākere College

+64 9 836 7890

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Here at Waitākere College, we offer a range of services to promote the health and wellbeing (Hauora) of our students.
We have 4 Counsellors located at school in the building next to the wharenui, look for the beautiful mural with birds.

How do you make an appointment?

For students to refer themselves to the counsellors CLICK HERE
For whānau to refer a student in their care to the counsellors CLICK HERE

Or go to the counselling building during interval or lunchtime, fill out a referral form and give it to Heidi Burris. If her door is shut, give it to another counsellor or post it under the door.
You can also email Heidi Burris [email protected]

Click here for HELPLINES

Introducing The Guidance Team at Waitākere College - they are here to help YOU.

	Heidi Burris Counsellor, Head Of Counselling BA, Bsc, BTchg (Sec) After teaching for 15 years, I started working as a counsellor in 2023. I have two young children, and in my free time, I love to read, spend time with my family and go camping. The way I work as a counsellor is called narrative therapy. When we meet, we will talk, as much as you want to, about what is happening for you. We will also talk about your hopes and what will support and grow your hopes. I look forward to meeting you and hearing your stories.
	Brig Wood Counsellor BA, MA, Post Grad Dip Couns, MNZAC Hi, my name is Brig. I've been a counsellor for over ten years working in both private practice and part-time at Waitākere College. I have a passion for music and have played the drums and guitar full-time in various bands. I also especially enjoy working with young people (teens and early twenties) which I've been doing for many years. This includes teaching drums for over twenty years, and teaching philosophy at university for ten years, before becoming a Counsellor.
	Trinity Whyte Counsellor BPSA, BCouns Kia Ora, I'm Trinity, I'm all about helping people navigate life's twists and turns with a mix of empathy and humour. With a background in Performing Arts and Counselling, I've got the tools to support you through whatever you're facing. Whether that be unpacking your emotions or finding your path, we can do that creatively or simply by talking, I am here to listen and encourage you in your journey. Let's tackle this journey together and make some magic happen!
	Patricia Aguilera-Ramos Counsellor Post Grad Dip Couns, MNZAC, BSW (Hons), SWRB. I am Patricia, originally from Chile, I speak Spanish and English. I arrived in NZ with my two kids and husband about 17 years ago. Before coming to NZ, I worked as a Social worker and youth /family therapist for about 10 years. I completed my Post Degree Diploma in Counselling in NZ in 2013. Since then I have been working both as a Social Worker and a Counsellor, mostly within a school setting, but also in the Women's Centre and the Grief Centre, and keeping a few clients in private practice, as a Counsellor and Supervisor. I aim to support people to reach their potential, working alongside their strengths, and holding their hopes and dreams alive.