I assure every man I work with that our interactions will be authentic, genuine, grounded, completely non-judgmental and respectful.
Around 30 years ago, I embarked on a profound journey into self-exploration as a man. This transformative experience began with my participation in Essentially Men, an intensive weekend workshop, alongside approximately 30 other New Zealand men. As we gathered on that Friday evening, we were given a unique directive: avoid discussing Work, Sport, Sex, or Politics.
Quite the conversation stopper, wouldn’t you agree?
What unfolded over the course of that weekend was nothing short of remarkable. Men, including myself, started to open up and share facets of our lives, often for the very first time. It was as if a snowball effect of vulnerability, authenticity, and depth began to roll, gaining momentum with each passing moment. As someone whose own father, a World War II veteran, was reticent about discussing anything “personal,” witnessing Kiwi men engage in such candid conversations was truly eye-opening.
The most profound lesson I gleaned from that weekend—and there were many, including the forging of enduring, lifelong friendships—was that men can indeed express their emotions, articulate their fears, reveal their disappointments and failures, and even divulge their unfulfilled dreams (as well as their successes) without the fear of judgment, mockery, belittlement, or, heaven forbid, the label of being “not man enough.”
Since then, I’ve dedicated my life to supporting men in their journey towards emotional well-being. I’ve served as a Lifeline counselor and played an active role as part of the Essentially Men support team. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Auckland. In the 1990s, I honed my skills as a therapist after completing Psychotherapy courses at AUT. Subsequently, I ventured into the world of education and technology, establishing LifeLong Learning Limited, an IT/Internet business that currently operates largely independently.
Recently, I decided to enhance my expertise in Transactional Analysis with the intent of reconnecting with clients once more. Hence, the creation of this manenough.nz website.
I am located in Northcote—just a stone’s throw away from Auckland’s iconic harbour bridge.
Please feel free to reach out to me via phone, message, or email whenever you’re ready. I’m here to support you on your journey towards a more fulfilling and authentic life.
