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Our Teams

Counsellor Team

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Sofie Ofstad

I’m a student counsellor, nearing the end of my formal training at NMIT. Through years of working in the outdoors as a guide and instructor, I have developed a steady and calm presence, an ability to keep those in my care safe – even when the environment is not. I grew up in a multitude of countries, this means I’m capable of meeting people where they stand, bringing curiosity and empathy to the counselling room.

My approach to counselling is pluralistic, this means I work collaboratively with people to find a way of working though the challenges they face in a way that resonates with them. I believe different people are likely to be helped by different things at different times.

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Wanda Stellingwerf

My name is Wanda, and I am currently in my second year of the Bachelor of Counselling programme at NMIT. With a background in creative problem-solving and design, I bring a thoughtful and adaptable approach to my work, along with the ability to listen deeply and build genuine, trusting therapeutic relationships.
Creating a safe and respectful space where individuals feel truly heard, valued, and empowered is central to my practice. I see it as a privilege to walk alongside and support others on their journeys, and this shared process continues to deepen my own learning, self-awareness, and growth.
I am developing a pluralistic approach to counselling, grounded in person-centred principles, and informed by solution-focused and cognitive behavioural therapies. My intention is to offer collaborative, responsive, and compassionate support tailored to each person.
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Joanne Lancaster

Kia Ora Koutou, 
I am a current student at NMIT, studying Bachelor of Counselling and am training in a variety of counselling modalities.  I was born and raised in Papakura, South Auckland and have been living in Nelson since 2023.
I offer an accepting, non-judgemental counselling space for you to talk about issues you may struggling with through a strength based, solution focused approach. Everyone has the right to thrive and flourish in their lives no matter the challenges or circumstances we face.  I believe in providing a client-centred safe space for you to explore the best way forward that focuses on your strengths so you can navigate life’s challenges in a way that aids healing and empowers you as an individual.
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Shari Gibson

B. Counselling,
Provisional Member, NZCCA

Hi, I’m Shari and have recently graduated from BTI Tauranga. It has always been my passion to see people overcome the challenges and adversities of life, achieving a greater sense of wholeness and well-being.

I see the counselling relationship as collaborative, and I offer a safe, non-judgemental and supportive environment for my client to explore the issues they are facing, believing that our past can become our teacher as we journey towards growth.

I value the uniqueness and dignity of each individual and aim to foster an environment of safety, respect and acceptance. I work with my client towards their own greater self-acceptance and self-compassion, as they seek to understand themselves and their experiences more.

My approach is person-centred and strengths-based, integrating aspects of CBT and Narrative therapy.

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Laura Evans

I am a student counsellor studying online with Yorkville University in Canada, with a New Zealand based external supervisor. I am working with youth, adults and couples; offering a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can feel truly heard and understood.

Whether you are navigating challenges in relationships, experiencing anxiety or low mood, facing life transitions, or supporting a young person through difficult emotions, I am here to walk alongside you. I am trained as a Circle of Security Parenting Facilitator, and I have experience co-facilitating Self-Compassion groups in Nelson.  I enjoy group and family therapy and I am currently training in Gottman Level 1 and 2, to expand my toolkit in working with couples.

I am a Canadian ex-pat and a mother of three school-aged kiddos who love exploring all that Te Tauihu o te Waka-a-Māui has to offer.  My happy spots are the many beautiful beaches, swimming holes, and mountain vistas.

My approach is person-centred, which means I believe you are the expert in your own life. Together, we create a safe and trusting environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences at your own pace. My approach is trauma-informed and anti-oppressive. I work gently and collaboratively, supporting you to build insight, resilience, and practical strategies that feel right for you.

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Vikki Park

B. Couns.
PNZCCA

I am a pluralistic counsellor with a person-centred approach, offering a warm, non-judgemental space where people can feel safe to explore what is happening for them at their own pace. I currently practise as a volunteer counsellor with Life Linc.

I work collaboratively and believe in meeting people as they are, with compassion, curiosity, and respect. I am committed to supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences, and I value creating therapeutic relationships that feel safe, inclusive, and empowering.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Counselling and have a particular interest in the areas of sexuality and intimacy, working with both individuals and couples. I am currently undertaking further professional development in Couples Therapy through the Gottman Institute to deepen my practice in this area.

Outside of counselling, I enjoy spending time hiking and camping, and value time with my family, including the furry kind 😊.

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Sophie Burgess

Kia ora koutou,
I am a bright and bubbly person; I love to meet new people and want to provide support in my community. I love all things creative and would love to eventually combine this with my counselling practice. While I have a passion working with youth, I am grateful for the opportunity to work with a broad range of people through any issue they’re facing.
As part of my training through NMIT’s Bachelor of Counselling, I am currently learning how to use a combination of counselling modalities to promote wellbeing in all aspects of life, the techniques used in my practice will be adjusted to each client’s needs. Client autonomy is very important to me, my practice will be collaborative and client-led to ensure the unique wants and needs of my clients are being met throughout the process of working together.
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Johnathan Merry

B. Couns.
NZAC

I have lived here in Nelson for most of my life and happy to call it home. My background has been working predominantly in hospitality, this is where I have built my strength in making real connections with people. I know this may seem like a big jump in the career path, but my passion lies in helping people with the everyday adversities we face in life and helping them build strength and understanding.
As a counsellor, I am drawn to practice from a pluralistic approach, which means I believe that different clients need different things at different times. This approach allows for flexibility and collaboration, integrating various therapeutic methods to best meet your unique needs and preferences.
As someone who identifies with the LGBTQIA+ community, I am committed to fostering a non-judgmental, inclusive and respectful environment for clients of all backgrounds. My practice embraces diversity in all its forms. I look forward to meeting you, it would be an honour to be a part of your journey.

Interested in joining our counselling team?

Talk to our counselling coordinator on 03 548 2400 or email [email protected]

Staff Team

Dawn Allan

Operations Manager

I have lived most of my life here in Nelson, apart from time spent in Auckland in the 1990’s, in 1999 I headed overseas for my big OE and ended up working in England. While there a meet a bloke and had a child, in 2003 I travelled home back to Nelson when my baby was 11 weeks old (the best age to travel with baby).  In 2007 my sister in law, asked me to join the Committee at Postnatal Depression Support Network Nelson (now known as Perinatal Support Nelson), this started a new phase in my working life of being involved in the NFP sector.

Working for an NGO not only gives you a chance to work more closely with clients, it allows you to really see that you have made a difference in their lives, it also gives you the opportunity to complete different tasks.

In 2015 I joined the team at Life Linc Nelson as the Administrator and now I am the Operations Manager.

Debbie Brooks

Community Liaison Administrator

Kia Ora. I am an American who has been calling New Zealand home for the last 15 years. I am from a very large family and have always felt it is important to speak up when I see a need. I have a passion for work in the “for purpose” sector and have been involved in charities for the better part of a decade now. My primary focus for work has been the performing arts sector as I have been involved with the Nelson Fringe Festival since it started in 2015 and I currently sit on the charitable trust that governs the festival.

I live in Upper Moutere with my husband and our 6 year old son, a dog, cat and chickens. Working for Life Linc has brought me immense satisfaction as I focus on building relationships with our stakeholders and community groups and expanding our social media reach. Taking care of our mental well-being is very important to me as I discovered after having my son and experiencing post-partum depression. Getting counselling has made an immense difference in my life and I support the mahi of removing barriers to access care. My hope is for anyone searching for help to find it easily.

Laura O'Donovan

Counselling Coordinator

Born and raised in Nelson, I now live in Tasman with my partner and our three children, alongside our much-loved dog and cat. Family life is a big part of who I am, and I value the connection, laughter, and everyday moments that come with it.
I hold a degree in counselling and have always been drawn to work that center’s around people, community, and making a positive difference. I’m passionate about working in community-centered roles, particularly advocacy, and supporting others to feel heard and empowered.
I began my journey at Life Linc as a trainee counsellor, where I gained meaningful experience working alongside individuals and families. Now I have the privilege of supporting and guiding trainee and volunteer counsellors as they grow in confidence and move forward in their own practice, which is something I deeply value.
Outside of work, I enjoy music and gardening.

Life Linc Board

Diana Bartle

Trustee

Ronny Bilkhu

Trustee

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Jennifer Montauban

Trustee

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Richard Wilkins

Trustee

Join our Board

Places come up on our Board from time to time. Please email our manager if you would like to know more on [email protected]

Volunteers

Life Linc is looking for Ambassadors – people with a bit of time and energy to give, who care deeply about the value of counselling and how it can enable people to make positive changes in their lives.

Ambassadors can help us in a variety of ways:

  • Distributing Life Linc leaflets in the community
  • Helping our fundraising team

If you are interested, please get in touch with operations manager Dawn on [email protected] or call 03 265 5566

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