Our Team
Grace Dandajena
Administrator
Grace is our administrator for Freedom Counselling Ministries and is the first point of contact for appointment bookings, referrals and general enquiries. She can also assist with information about funding eligibility and availability.
Feel free to contact Grace via phone or email - she is happy to help and will ensure you are connected with the correct support for all your needs.
Email: freedomcounsellingministries@outlook.com
Phone: 020 419 60655
Sam Anderson BAppSocSci (couns), MNZCCA
Director of Freedom Counselling Ministries, Supervisor & Counsellor
ACC Approved
Sam has worked extensively as a counsellor for several years, with a primary focus on strengthening the well-being of individuals, couples, and families. She is passionate about helping others experience freedom in their lives.
Sam is also the author of the Freedom Within books (see the Shop tab for more details).
In addition to counselling, Sam is available to speak at events and facilitate workshops. Previous topics have included anger management, relationship insights, pornography, emotional and mental health, and leadership development. Workshops and talks can be tailored to suit specific needs or requests.
Ian Anderson BApp (couns), MNZCCA
Counsellor
ACC Approved
With an extensive background in the corporate world, Ian brings a wealth of experience and insight to his counselling practice. He works with adults of all ages and is particularly passionate about supporting and strengthening men in the areas of mental and emotional health, as well as in their relationships.
Ian is a valued member of the FCM team and is committed to helping clients navigate life with greater resilience and connection.
Sharon Fini BHSc (couns), Prov. NZCCA
Counsellor
ACC Approved
Sharon holds a Bachelor of Health Science in Counselling and is ACC approved. She offers an integrative and relational approach to therapy, working with individuals across the lifespan - from children (6+ years) to adolescents, adults, and couples.
With a background in the health sector, Sharon brings valuable experience supporting children, young people, and their families. She believes that life requires intentional relationship-building or whanaungatanga, and she is passionate about helping others strengthen their relationships and create positive, lasting change.
Ursula McRobbie BAppSocSci (couns), MNZCCA
Counsellor
ACC Approved
Coming from a family of small business owners, Ursula understands the complexities of relationship dynamics and the importance of setting boundaries within both work and family systems.
She brings many years of experience working with children, youth, adults, and families, as well as facilitating group work, couples counselling, and mediation therapy. Ursula works creatively using a client-centred approach, adapting a variety of techniques to meet each client’s unique needs.
Cath Russell BCouns, Prov. NZCCA
Counsellor
Cath holds a Bachelor of Counselling from Bethlehem Tertiary Institute and is trained in person-centred counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and narrative therapy. She takes a collaborative approach, working alongside each person to discover what best supports their unique journey.
With over ten years of experience living and working in Cambodia, Cath brings a deep understanding of multicultural contexts. She has worked with children, young people, and adults, and values creating a supportive space where people feel seen and heard.
Cath is known for her empathy and posture of encouragement. She has a heart for helping people navigate life’s challenges, grow in self-understanding, discover their values and strengths, and move toward greater freedom and wellbeing.
Julie Nohe PGDipCouns, BAppSW, MNZCCA, SWRB
Counsellor
Julie holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling Theory with Merit, a Bachelor of Applied Social Work, and a Diploma of Counselling. She is an ACC Accredited Social Worker, Registered Social Worker, and member of the New Zealand Christian Counsellors Association and Social Work Registration Board.
With over 12 years of experience, Julie has worked extensively with children, young people, adults, and whānau across counselling, social work, trauma recovery, family harm, sexual violence support, and caregiver services. She takes a warm, person-centred, and strengths-based approach, supporting clients to navigate challenges, build resilience, and create positive change.
Julie is passionate about helping people find hope and healing and works alongside clients with compassion, respect, and a commitment to empowering lasting wellbeing.
Nelly Kalizinje Master of Health Science (Counselling Psychology)
Psychologist
ACC Approved
Nelly Kalizinje is a Registered Counselling Psychologist with the New Zealand Board of Psychology and holds a Master of Health Science in Counselling Psychology. She has experience working in primary mental health, addictions, and employee assistance settings, supporting individuals, leaders, and teams.
Nelly takes a collaborative, respectful, and client-centred approach to counselling. She is passionate about creating a safe and supportive space where clients feel heard, can explore their challenges, process their experiences, and work towards meaningful goals in their lives.
Nelly values culturally responsive practice and is committed to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi through respectful and partnership-based engagement.
Jeanene De Beer Student Affiliate, NZCCA
Student Counsellor
Jeanene is currently completing her Bachelor of Counselling at Bethlehem Tertiary Institute (BTI).
Jeanene is passionate about supporting young people and individuals to navigate life’s challenges, grow in confidence, and move toward their full potential. She offers a safe and respectful space where clients can feel heard, understood, and supported.
Her training in Person-Centred counselling and professional ethics equips her to work with a range of concerns, including anxiety, stress, relationships, identity, and grief. Grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Jeanene is committed to culturally responsive practice.
Jeanene brings a warm, compassionate presence and a genuine desire to walk alongside others on their journey.