Presentation: A narrative approach to working with whanau in the Health Sector.

Meeting the person as separate from the problem(s) that affect them: creating space to put issues into a context to see them for what they are. This is done by looking at the whakapapa, the history, of issues and stories of how one is in the world. The work is on shifting the ‘dark clouds’ or whatever it is that creates the blur or sense of heaviness that can dominate and define how we are in the world. We put energy into re-connecting to whatever it is that grows the wairua to re-kindle your sense of safety, confidence and well-being.

We aim to bring problems into the light of the day and often, out of people’s heads to reduce the effect it has on the spirit. We find practical ways to rest, take action and attend to what is important to you.

Paiheko was a project facilitated by Mary Potter Hospice to bring Health Practitioners of different modalities together to present practice-based evidence of what works in recovery/rehabilitation/healing for Maori in the field of mental health. It was inspirational being the final presenter of the day to get the gift of aroha, teachings and wisdom of those gone before. It made me pause and wonder how else to weave in these new threads when it came time to contribute what I have witnessed when accompanying people on their way ki te Ao Marama, towards the realm of light and being.