About Equilibrium Psychotherapy
Paula Partington
I have been working in counselling and psychotherapy since 1990, in the UK and New Zealand. Prior to practicing in New Zealand, I worked in Psychology Departments in the National Health Service with adults, children and adolescents, as well as individuals, couples and groups.
I also gained experience in residential social work and special needs education, as well as in working non-governmental organisations (NGO’s). Additionally I worked in my private counselling and psychotherapy practice, and supervised counsellors and trainee psychologists.
In New Zealand I have worked in NGO’s and in private practice with adults, children, adolescents and their families, as well as deaf clients, and specialise in working with disordered eating and body image issues. I currently supervise counsellors, psychotherapists, and those in allied fields, and tutor counselling students working towards their degree.
My experience also includes substantial post trauma and resiliency work in Christchurch and Canterbury with children and families, schools and organisations, as well as providing training workshops, supervision and consultancy.
My Philosophy
I provide a safe, non-judgemental, and supportive environment for clients to work through the difficulties they are facing. My approach is to enable clients to build on their existing strengths and resources to solve their problems and meet their goals. My core approach is based on working in the therapeutic relationship and Transactional Analysis, and integrating up to date research on neurobiology and mindfulness. I also have training and experience in other methods of working including Person-Centred Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and play based approaches and an interest in Eco-Centered Therapy. I integrate these as appropriate to meet the needs of the person I am working with. I work with warmth, creativity and humour.
Qualifications & Memberships
- B.A. (Hons) Psychology
- MSc. Psychology & Counselling (Distinction)
- Certified Transactional Analyst (Psychotherapy)
- Provisional Teaching and Supervising Transactional Analyst
(Nov 2008 – Nov 2022) - Registered Psychotherapist, Psychotherapy Board of Aotearoa New Zealand
- Member New Zealand Association of Counsellors
- ACC Registered