Susana Quilodran

Kia ora,

My name is Susana Quilodran-Valdebenito. I am originally from Chile and have resided in New Zealand for more than 18 years. My ancestral background comprises Mapuche Indigenous lineage from South America as well as Spanish heritage.

I completed my undergraduate studies in Psychology in Chile (1999–2004) and am a registered member of the Chilean Psychologist Board. In New Zealand, I obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology from Massey University, as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Development Studies and a Master of Arts in Development Studies from the University of Auckland (2008–2010).

I am a full member of the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC). Since March 2011, I have been employed as a Counsellor at Catholic Social Services in Auckland, and I also maintain a private practice.

My professional experience in Chile includes working as a psychologist with families in a foster care family relocation programme, serving as a school psychologist, lecturing in the Education Department at Frontera University, and facilitating training workshops for staff in public hospitals. I have also delivered workshops for parents, children, and adolescents living in high-risk social contexts.

My therapeutic practice is primarily informed by Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Humanistic approaches, and Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
“I believe strongly in individuals’ inherent capacity, strength, and courage to create meaningful and positive change in their lives”.