Claudia Manderson

Hi, my name is Claudia.

I’m a registered social worker and love to offer support and guidance through life’s challenges by empowering connection to yourself and those who matter to you enabling transformation and healing.

My professional journey reflects my passion to walk alongside people’s paths when they need a bit of extra support e.g. as social worker, mediator, Kidpower instructor (10 years ago) or paediatric nurse (30 years ago). I am a fully registered social worker (SWRB), member of the professional body ANZASW, ACC and WINZ registered (SW).

Over the last 20 years I worked with adults in mental health, parenting and relationship issues, as well as with teenagers and children dealing with anxiety, emotional regulation, self confidence. I did facilitate conflict management and - resolution/ mediation between adults and/ or children. As social worker I gained experiences in youth work, addiction/ mental health, family service and relational work.

I provide a safe work environment as paramount foundation for our collaborative work relationship and adhere to confidentiality and my professional codes of conducts and ethics.

I meet my clients with authenticity and focus on listening with empathy, genuine respect and curiosity, without judgement. I bring awareness to their self, somatic, mental and behavioural expressions, as well as to their feelings, needs and values, their resources and strengths. Gained insights and empathic understanding may enable clients to step into their power towards viewing challenges as opportunities for transformation and healing, improving their overall well-being.

My approach is person centred, strength based and solutions focussed, systemic, holistic, trauma and attachment informed. I implement elements of Systems Theory, IFS, CBT, Somatic Therapy, Non-Violent/ Compassionate Communication (NVC) and may include body based/ somatic practices, mindfulness, breath awareness and Nature Therapy (NatureFix) using the healing powers of our natural environment. Therefore, I offer sessions indoors & outdoors.

I grew up in East- Germany and 22 years ago I moved to New Zealand, the home of my kiwi- husband. Together we have 3 children, who all left their nest recently and enjoy spreading their wings far and wide. Our family shares interest for different cultures and the love for the outdoors, more actively via tramping, cycling, paddling or as a lifestyle via gardening and land/ animal care. I’m very grateful to call the Top of the South our home with this stunning natural environment, vast outdoor opportunities and value connecting with its many beautiful people.