Strength in Aotearoa: Evidence based wellbeing for our unique cultural environment

I am a counsellor wanting evidence based strategies that are relevant in Aotearoa.

I have developed a model for resilience "Hoea tō Waka: Strength in Aotearoa". I run workshops to teach the model to professionals and the public. Hoea tō Waka draws together the most commonly used therapy* concepts with important aspects of te ao Māori. Western models often miss important parts of wellbeing which are very evident in te ao Māori.

Workshops and resources (excluding the book) are in exchange for koha for the public, community groups and NGOs. I will likely need to charge for the book to cover costs for printing it. I want these resilience ideas to be common knowledge so that people can avoid the need for expensive counselling and long waiting lists.

Hoea tō Waka is a model for everyone. We sweep away the "expert" role and are able to journey together and support each other. Workshops include waiata-ā- ringa and a song in English for participants to take away and share.

Through music we can help people remember the main concepts in times of stress and also bring the learning into every day life. I'm writing a book which outlines the theoretical underpinnings of the model for those who like the technical stuff. I have approached a graphic designer who has worked with me and my cultural supervisor to design a poster as a visual reminder of Hoea tō Waka.

* Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Compassion Focused and Metacognitive Therapies