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Te Puna Manaaki home

Meet the team that can help you with your wellbeing journey at Witt

Counsellor

David Sander

Nau mai, haere mai! I understand that navigating the journey through studies can sometimes present challenges, both academically and personally. I am here to support you with that journey.  Whether you're feeling overwhelmed with coursework, struggling to balance your studies and personal life, or simply need someone to talk to, I’m here to provide support in a confidential, safe, and supportive environment. I look forward to connecting with you soon.  

I have over 13 years’ experience working in mental health. My journey started with Lifeline Aotearoa and has involved predominantly working in the tertiary education context working with students. I also have an understanding and experience working with those of different cultures and faiths. It heartens me to see people living lives that are congruent with their values and authentic selves.

My areas of interest are: Anxiety, Depression, Cross-Cultural Psychology, Sexual & Gender Identity, Healthy Relationships, Spirituality, and Religious Trauma.

 

Mental Health Practitioners

Jess Edelbaum

Nau mai, haere mai! Sometimes the stressors of being a student and general life can feel overwhelming. I am here to support you in finding a way through these challenges. You maybe noticing feeling stressed with coursework, struggling to balance studies and life, lacking self-confidence, feeling anxious about upcoming exams or just wanting someone to talk to, I’m here.  Services provided through Te Puna Maanaki are confidential and we do our best to create a space for you to feel safe, supported and heard.

I have over 14 years’ experience working in the field of well-being. With training in marriage and family therapy, life coaching and expressive arts, my view of the world comes down to relationship, starting with the relationship to yourself.  Let's work together to enhance your skills, ease your journey, and encourage the expression of your truest self.

I know it takes courage to reach out, and I also trust you are courageous. I look forward to connecting with you soon.  


Hildah Ntuli

I'm here to help when challenges in life and academic pressures are having an impact on your wellbeing.

A safe space to discuss your concerns, be listened to and work towards better mental and emotional wellbeing.

I'm also here to provide support for students dealing with existing mental health challenges and issues that may arise during their time at WITT.

 

Mental Health Coach

Pip Butterworth

As a certified Mental Health Coach with lived experience, I have a passion for helping others improve and maintain their mental fitness. I work with students experiencing mild to moderate anxiety and/or depression, overwhelm, and stress. I believe we should invest in our mental fitness, just as we would our physical health, empowering you to become more resilient and content.  I focus on key areas such as nutrition, exercise, sleep, breathing, stress management, and connection.

You are the expert on you, so we work collaboratively to identify areas you want to improve. I’ll walk alongside you as you make small incremental changes towards a healthier lifestyle and develop your toolbox of strategies and tools, including ACT therapy. I'm here to empower you to take control of your mental wellness, prioritise your mental fitness and thrive in student life.

Chaplain

Chris Lee

If you need a listening ear, a trusted person to lean on, prayer support, or a quiet space for time out... nau mai haere mai.

Any faith... No faith... No worries