Our people
We have a small team of specially trained and dedicated counsellors and family violence experts who guide you through a change program tailored to your specific needs. Listen to a few of our team members as they share their perspectives on how we help people in our community break the cycle of violence.
Hear from our people
Read about our team members as they share their perspectives on how we help people in our community break the cycle of violence.
Laurence
Family Violence Facilitator
I act from a space of respect, honour, and appreciation towards the people I work with. In line with the whakataukī (proverb), Kia whakatōmuri te haere whakamua – “I walk backwards into the future with my eyes fixed on my past”, I acknowledge that everyone can create their desired present and future life by learning from their past. Using tools from different cultures, I aim to work authentically with others to meet their goals and to support them to live in a caring, respectful, and meaningful way. My purpose is to ensure that people finish their program with a clearer understanding of themselves and are equipped with practical strategies to create healthy and safe relationships.
Jane
Agency Manager
I feel very privileged to be working at Kapiti Living Without Violence and am also proud of the mahi we do. As someone who grew up with family violence, I know first-hand how devastating the effects of this can be, especially for our tamariki. Everything we do to help a user of violence change their behaviour can lead to big changes for a whānau and the community that surrounds them. It’s like a ripple effect, that reaches out to so many more people than the person we see in the room. Our strengths-based work with survivors can make a real difference too, as we help them re-build self-esteem, confidence and a more positive future.
Our Board
We have a board of people experienced in helping community organisations to thrive and serve the needs of their clients. They have backgrounds in business, government, law and community organisations and bring expertise in financial management, strategy, law, stakeholder engagement and change management.
Chairperson
Olga Speranskaya
Secretary
Sharon Burleigh
Treasurer
Naomi Ferguson
Board members
Sally Carter
Julianne O’Kane
"I am grateful to have had the counsellor work with me during this program. I feel more empowered to move forward with life."
Safety and Protection Program client
"Very grateful for the new tools, skills and support I've had - I can already see and feel the positive impacts."
Safety and Protection Program client
"Worthwhile program, supportive environment, lots of good, relevant information provided. Facilitator made the program and was understanding."
Behaviour Change Program client
"The program has been very effective for me. I have learned many ways to deal with my past issues (anger, trauma). This has been the best counsellor I have had thus far, amazing."