My approach to counselling, therapy and supervision I do not follow any one theory or approach to counselling, therapy or supervision. I have fashioned my own way of working based on building effective relationships which encourage insight, courage, creativity and a new vision. I predict the next era for psychotherapy and counselling will be based on the development of theory and practice arising from cultural and social foundations in communities around the world. Psychotherapy and counselling will find its roots where it is practised and be less dependent on imported ideas and theoretical frameworks. I taught counselling theory for over fifteen years and draw ideas from a number of significant mentors in my life whose interests span a variety of disciplines. If you are interested in theoretical and practice ideas I contemplate (and use) they are set out in papers on the web site of The New Zealand Association of Psychotherapists (bicultural page) The link is on my main web site page. I can send you other documents which outline my views. I prefer to work with 'relationship' rather than 'method' or 'treatment'. My work with people is based on the expectation that life can be renewed, change is challenging and often rewarding and we can learn to visit the past without allowing it to control or inhibit us in the present. I believe it is important to look for appropriate explanations for events that cause us pain and then focus on links between mind, body, emotions and the spiritual or philosophical self. All disciplines which review human development have something to contribute to a wide perspective. Each person has a unique contribution to make to their culture, community life and personal relationships. The places we choose to belong to, our cultural communities and the sense of personal identity we develop are all important factors in our growth. Cultural belonging is a profound influence in a world where communication is expanding. The systems within which we live, work, remain healthy and assist others are interwoven and continuous. They need to be contemplated as influences which do not necessarily have one cause or effect. There is often a way through which creates hope and new possibilities.