Kia ora, I’m Aida. My journey into counselling began with a deeply personal loss—the death of my cousin, who was like a brother to me, when I was just 14. That experience changed my life and sparked a lifelong commitment to supporting others through grief. Over the years, I’ve faced the loss of several loved ones, which has deepened my understanding of how complex and isolating grief can feel.

I hold a PhD in Psychology, a Master’s in Rehabilitation Counselling, and a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology. My work has taken me from supporting mothers of children with cancer in Iran to researching grief and assisted dying here in Aotearoa since 2015, as well as helping people bereaved by different forms of loss, including suicide. Alongside my research, I have over four years of counselling experience in New Zealand (and three years prior in Iran). Today, I combine my academic knowledge with my counselling practice to walk alongside people navigating profound loss.

I believe grief becomes lighter when it is shared and understood. My approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and grounded in the belief that everyone’s grief journey is unique. Whether you need a safe space to talk, tools to cope, or simply someone to listen, I am here to support you.

I currently have availability for online sessions Monday to Friday, from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, and I offer in-person sessions on Wednesdays on the North Shore, Auckland.

If you feel I might be the right person to support you through this difficult time, please reach out. You don’t have to face this alone.