Vida Buchanan

Vida is originally from Johannesburg, South Africa and immigrated to the beautiful Aotearoa with her family in 2020 in search of a better and safer life. She has been a counsellor for over a decade and is incredibly passionate about supporting and empowering people. Vida loves spending her free time with her beautiful family, dancing and being outdoors. One of her greatest privileges in life is being a mother. She believes that children are our greatest teachers in life. Over the years, Vida has worked with many individuals and couples facing a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem struggles, life transitions and stress. As a dedicated and compassionate Registered Professional counsellor, Vida is committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and find greater emotional wellbeing. With an honour's degree in Psychology and over a decade of experience in the field, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a client-centered approach to her practice.

Education and Training: Vida earned my honour's degree in Psychology from the University of South Africa, where she gained a strong foundation in various therapeutic techniques and approaches. Throughout her education, Vida completed internships and clinical experience in various organisations including community counselling centres, police station victim support groups, employment wellness organisations as well as private practices, allowing her to work effectively with a diverse range of clients and presenting issues.

Professional Approach: Vida’s therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, active listening and collaboration. She believes that every individual's journey is unique, and tailors her interventions to meet each clients specific needs and goals. Vida’s primary therapeutic modalities include but are not limited to; Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Neuroscience, Developmental model and Mindfulness techniques. She is dedicated to creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and challenges openly.

Philosophy: Vida’s counselling philosophy centres on fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and collaboration. She believes that self-discovery and personal growth are achievable through introspection and effective coping strategies. By working together, sessions can explore your strengths, develop resilience, and pave the way toward positive change.

Continuing Education: Vida is highly dedicated to staying current with the latest developments in the field of psychology and counselling. She regularly attends workshops, seminars, and training programs to expand her knowledge and refine her skills, ensuring that her clients receive the most current, effective and evidence- based interventions.

A Note from Vida: “Taking the first step toward seeking counselling is an act of great courage and self-care. I am here to provide you with a safe and supportive space as we work together to address your concerns, achieve your goals, and promote emotional wellbeing. I look forward to embarking on this journey of growth and healing with you. Counselling provides an opportunity to observe, reflect and identify any unhelpful or unhealthy ways of thinking and behaving and with this the opportunity for growth into more helpful and healthier ways of being. Please feel free to reach out to me to discuss how counselling can support you on your path to a more fulfilling life.”

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