HWC Volunteer
I’m Helen Bryant, and I’ve been a counsellor for 15 years. Currently, I use a room at the Women’s Centre for my practice, where I also run a popular Understanding & Managing Anxiety course. I work with a range of issues, from grief and loss to ACC sexual abuse cases, and I primarily focus on family dynamics, including couples with children aged 15 and up.
When I moved to New Zealand in 2006, and more recently to Hawke’s Bay in 2019, it was a challenging transition. Initially, I couldn’t find a counselling job and worked as a doctor’s receptionist.
But then I found the Women’s Centre and began volunteering two days a week. This place quickly became a lifeline, providing me with a sense of whanau (family), support, and belonging.
Walking through the doors of the Women’s Centre for the first time was daunting, but the warmth and non-judgmental atmosphere quickly put me at ease. It’s a place where people feel welcomed and supported, much like a family. Here, no one is judged, and everyone can find a place to belong.
The energy and wairua (spiritual essence) of the Centre make it a safe and trusted sanctuary for those in need.
My goal for my clients is to create a similar sense of safety and trust. I want them to feel that they are in a warm, accepting environment where they can freely express themselves and work through their challenges.
The Centre’s energy and physical space play a crucial role in this. While some counselling rooms could use an update to enhance the overall atmosphere, the essence of the Centre remains comforting and supportive.
Facilitating the Understanding & Managing Anxiety group has been a rewarding experience. Based on participant feedback, I plan to make future sessions more informal and discussion-based, focusing on practical skills and resources they can use between sessions. I believe in empowering my clients, giving them tools to manage their anxiety and improve their well-being.
The Women’s Centre has also been flexible and supportive of my needs. When I started, I was volunteering, but now I get paid, which has been a great help as I worked to establish my private practice. The Centre’s support has allowed me to adjust my schedule when needed, making it easier to balance my professional and personal life.
As I prepare to move to a new space soon, I reflect on how invaluable the Centre’s community and support have been. I strive to bring positivity and warmth to my interactions, often sending cheerful emails to the team to brighten their day. My mom used to call me her “Sunshine Girl” and I try to embody that spirit in my work.
The Women’s Centre has been a place of growth and support for me. It’s where I’ve found a
professional home and a community that shares my commitment to providing a warm, accepting environment for those seeking help. My aim is to extend this experience to my clients, ensuring they feel safe, supported, and empowered on their journey.