About Me
Renata Barros – Counsellor (she/her)
Kia ora,
I’m Renata, and I’ve been helping a diverse range of people navigate their lives for more than fifteen years. I grew up in southern Brazil, lived in Argentina, and spent six years in São Paulo before moving to Wellington in 2018 with my family. Since arriving in New Zealand, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with various local communities, embracing the country’s rich diversity and immersing myself in different cultures. My true passion lies in establishing meaningful connections with people and supporting them to thrive. When I’m not working, I enjoy exploring nature through bushwalking and embarking on adventures with my whānau.
My Journey
My journey in the field of mental health began during my young adulthood, fueled by a curiosity about how individuals navigate life. Since then, I have wholeheartedly immersed myself in this field, constantly seeking opportunities to learn and assist people in finding what makes their lives fulfilling.
Starting from 2008, I have actively pursued professional development, personal analysis, and supervision to continuously refine my practice. Throughout my journey, I have also faced my own mental health challenges, which have deepened my understanding and empathy, allowing me to walk alongside my clients in their own unique journeys.
As an immigrant and a mother, I have personally experienced the challenges of seeking culturally appropriate support. This has motivated me to maintain ongoing supervision and professional development, ensuring that I can provide the best possible care to individuals from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, I offer counselling services in Spanish and Portuguese, enabling other immigrants and refugees to communicate comfortably in their first language.
My commitment to growth and cultural sensitivity remains unwavering as I strive to create a safe and inclusive space for all those who seek my services.
Credentials & Education
- Master’s Degree in Social and Institutional Psychology from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul – Recognized at level 9 by NZQA
- Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul – Recognized at level 7 by NZQA
- Specialization in Clinical Care in Psychology from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, with a one-year placement at Centro de Salud Mental No 3 Arturo Ameghino and Escuela Freudiana de Buenos Aires, in Argentina
- Provisional Member of the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC)
- Member of Centre for Lacanian Analysis