Paul Letham-McGrath
Integrative Counsellor
Born into a Mid Canterbury farming family, Paul showed an early interest in psychology,
philosophy, and the creative arts. After an initial foray into the worlds of theatre, music
and performance, which included gaining an undergraduate degree in drama and music,
Paul began studying psychology, culminating in two diplomas and a Bachelor of
Counselling degree.
In addition to his academic background, Paul also brings to his practice first-hand
experience of depression and anxiety and a deep understanding of the various
conditions that can lead to their development.
Qualifications
Bachelor of Counselling (Wellington Institute of Technology)
Bachelor of Arts, major in Theatre Studies (University of Canterbury)
Jungian & Post-Jungian Clinical Concepts Certificate (Centre for Applied Jungian Studies)
Diploma in Psychology (The Open Polytechnic of New Zealand)
Diploma in Health & Human Behaviour (The Open Polytechnic of New Zealand)
Registrations
Member of the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC)
Member of Therapy First
Approach
Paul’s work is grounded in the concept of Client-Centred Practice, a philosophy and therapeutic approach that ultimately regards you as the expert in your own life. Paul also integrates other ways of working, depending upon your needs. Drawing upon a number of therapeutic approaches, he primarily works within existential, solution-based, psychodynamic, Jungian, transpersonal, and cognitive-behavioural methods.
What is counselling?
Counselling provides an opportunity for you to express your thoughts and feelings in a safe, neutral, and confidential space. It is a time for you to explore what’s important to you, to seek clarity or insight, to make meaning or sense of what’s happening, and to gain control over aspects of your life that may be troubling you. Counselling relies upon the therapeutic relationship that builds over time between the counsellor and yourself. Therapy can be short-term or longer-term, depending on your needs, and the dynamics of counselling will inherently differ from person to person.
What is a counsellor's role?
Your counsellor is primarily a companion and collaborator. He holds expertise in psychological factors that may be preventing you from living as you wish to. He is curious, engaged, and reflective. Once your counselling goals have been determined,
your counsellor’s role is to listen, explore, and challenge when necessary. He helps you make sense of what is going on, accompanying you as you explore new perspectives. The discussions you have with your counsellor are supportive and respectful, free from criticism, judgement, agenda, or ideological bias. Your counsellor is a well-informed, objective, and encouraging companion. He constantly holds your needs in mind, helping you make sustainable change in your life in whatever way is meaningful to you.