Supporting Vulnerable Children with Care, Expertise, and Teamwork

Hana Counselling – Mediation Services

Navigate Separation with Support and Clarity

Compassion. Guidance. Resolution.
We help individuals and families through separation with a unique approach that combines therapy, mediation, and practical financial guidance.

How We Can Help

  • Process emotions, heal from trauma, and regain stability.

    Please visit our service page to find the support options.

  • Clear, fair, and legally informed agreements.

  • Specialized Dance Movement Therapy for children to express and manage their emotions.

  • Expert guidance to help families navigate budgeting, mortgages, and financial planning during separation.

  • Safe, structured space to reach mutually satisfying outcomes.

Team Hana Counselling – Passionate Advocates for Children and the Community

With over 25 years of experience as a social worker specializing in domestic violence and child abuse cases, Ai Kihara is deeply committed to supporting vulnerable children and families. She combines trauma-informed care with creative therapies, including Dance Movement and Zen Art Therapy, helping clients heal, build resilience, and reconnect with their community.

Andrea (Mediator), Chloe (DMT Therapist), and Quency (Financial Advisor/Consultant) share the same dedication, bringing their expertise and compassion to support individuals, families, and the wider community. Together, Team Hana Counselling provides holistic care that addresses emotional, legal, financial, and developmental needs.

Meet the Team

  • Ai Kihara

    Director, Therapist & Social Worker

    - Social worker since 1998 (domestic violence & child abuse)

    - Trauma specialist, trauma researcher, kids therapist

    Please read her articles

    Read Bio

  • Andrea Bredl

    Mediator

    - Professional mediation & legal guidance

    Read Bio

  • Quency Wong

    - Financial Consultant

    - Mortgage Broker

    - Supports families with budgeting, mortgages, and financial planning

    - She speaks English, Chinese, Cantonese

    Read Bio

  • Chloe Chow

    - Dance Movement Therapy (DMT)Therapist

    - Specialized Dance Movement Therapy for children

    - Dance instructor

    - Worked as a social worker for kids and youths in Hong Kong

    - She speaks English, Chinese and Cantonese

    Read Bio

What Does a Mediator Do?

A mediator is a neutral professional who helps people in conflict—such as couples, families, or business partners—communicate effectively and reach fair agreements. Mediators do not take sides or make decisions for you; instead, they guide both parties to find solutions that work for everyone.

How Mediation Can Help You

  • Resolve Conflicts Peacefully: Avoid lengthy or stressful legal battles by finding common ground.

  • Clarify Needs and Goals: Each party can express their concerns and priorities in a safe, structured setting.

  • Create Fair Agreements: Reach solutions that are clear, realistic, and legally informed (when combined with mediation advice from professionals like Andrea).

  • Support Families and Children: Mediation focuses on collaboration, helping reduce stress for children and maintaining respectful relationships.

Why Choose Mediation with Hana Counselling

Our mediation service combines legal guidance, therapy support, and practical advice. Andrea, our professional mediator, works alongside Ai and the team to ensure that both your emotional and practical needs are addressed, so you can move forward with confidence and clarity.

Contact us to start working with us!

Advice for Families Navigating Separation

As a professional working with family relationship issues since 1998, Ai Kihara shares practical guidance for anyone going through separation or family transitions:

  • Build a strong support network: Surround yourself with family, friends, or trusted community members. You don’t have to go through this alone.

  • Understand the legal system: Gaining knowledge about New Zealand’s family law and mediation processes can help you make informed decisions.

  • Be patient: The process may take longer than expected. Prioritize self-care and stress management every day.

  • Be kind to yourself: Avoid blaming yourself for the situation. Treat yourself with the compassion you deserve.

  • Use available resources: Government, community, and support organizations can provide rest, guidance, and child care support when needed.

  • Seek professional help if needed: If you struggle to eat, sleep, or manage your emotions, reach out to a therapist you feel comfortable with.

  • Work with your legal team effectively: Mediators, social workers, lawyers, and other professionals work for you. Be clear about your goals, needs, and limitations to get precise guidance and advice.

  • Never give up: Focus on your and your child’s happiness and well-being.

  • Co-parent when possible: Maintaining a respectful relationship with your ex-partner benefits your children.

  • Stay connected to yourself: Believe in yourself, preserve your sense of self, and maintain your motivation. You are your own best friend.

  • Approach the process calmly: Legal proceedings may feel fast and complex, but taking deliberate, thoughtful steps will serve you well.

  • Visualize your future: Knowing what you want your future life to look like will help you make decisions that can positively change your life.

Useful Resources & Support Services

    • Shine – Confidential family‑violence helpline & support services. Call 0508 744 633 or access web chat 24/7. 2Shine+1

    • Are You OK – Free, confidential support & information line for anyone experiencing or witnessing family violence. Call 0800 456 450 or use live chat. Are You OK?+1

    • Safe to Talk – 24/7 helpline for support and information related to sexual violence. Call 0800 044 334, text 4334, or visit their website for live chat. Ministry of Justice New Zealand+1

    • Oranga Tamariki – Ministry for Children – For urgent concerns about child safety or protection. Freephone 0508 326 459 (0508 FAMILY), available 24/7. Ministry of Justice New Zealand

    • Youthline – Free, confidential support for young people (or those supporting young people). Call 0800 37 66 33, text 234, or chat online (10am–10pm). Youthline Kiwi+1

    • Parentline – Support services for children and families dealing with domestic violence, abuse, and parenting challenges. Parentli

    • Ministry of Justice – “Separating or Getting Divorced” guide, including child custody and mediation pathways. Government of New Zealand+1

    • Citizens Advice Bureau – Free advice for legal rights, forms, and understanding separation or custody processes. Freephone 0800 367 222. Ministry of Justice New Zealand

    • Family Services Directory – Searchable directory of community-based social support services (counselling, housing, financial support, etc.). Ministry of Justice New Zealand+1