Meet Brenda Nortje
Learn about my journey to becoming a counsellor, my personal approach to supporting you, and the qualifications that ensure you receive professional, compassionate care.
I offer counselling sessions in both English and Afrikaans
My journey to counselling
As a South African born wife, mother, and grandmother, I have called New Zealand home since 2013. Through my own life experiences, I deeply understand the importance of feeling safe and truly heard. I am a professional counsellor dedicated to creating a secure, respectful, and collaborative therapeutic environment. Here, clients can openly explore their challenges, build resilience, and work towards meaningful change.
My practice is grounded in person-centered principles, recognizing each individual's strengths, values, and unique life experiences. I generally work with adults facing various concerns, including anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, life transitions, and overall emotional wellbeing. My pluralistic approach integrates evidence-based counselling practices while tailoring therapy to each client's specific needs and goals.
Authenticity, cultural responsiveness, and the development of a strong therapeutic relationship are cornerstones of my work. I am committed to supporting clients to increase self-awareness and foster personal growth.
A bit about how I work...
I believe counselling starts with feeling safe enough to be yourself.
You don’t need to have the right words, know exactly what you need, or have everything figured out before you come. My role is to listen, understand your experience and meet you where you are — without judgement or pressure.
My foundation is person-centered, and I work in a pluralistic and integrative way. This simply means I don’t believe counselling should look the same for everyone. We’ll work together to find what feels helpful and meaningful for you, drawing on different approaches and practical tools when they fit your needs.
I see you as the expert in your own life. I’m here to walk alongside you — offering a safe space to pause, reflect, make sense of what you’re carrying and, when you’re ready, explore what might come next.
My qualifications & professional commitments
I hold a Bachelor of Applied Counselling, ensuring a solid academic foundation for my practice. I am a Provisional Member of the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC), demonstrating my commitment to ethical and professional standards within the counselling field.
Additionally, I hold a Lifekeeper Suicide Avoidance certificate, highlighting my dedication to supporting individuals in crisis. I maintain a current practicing certificate, assuring clients of my ongoing professional development and adherence to industry regulations.
"Brenda creates such a warm and safe space. I felt heard and understood from our very first session."
A satisfied client