Miriam Sessa

Kia ora! I am Miriam, an Italian/English migrant, and a registered Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience in community development and social services. My journey began in my own youth through activism, an experience that continues to inform my unwavering commitment to partnership with young people. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, my work is deeply rooted in lived experience and a commitment to intersectional social justice, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and the advocacy of youth rights. Professional Journey Throughout my career, I have served in diverse capacities, from frontline youth mentoring to national leadership positions. This breadth of experience allows me to understand the complexities of the sector from multiple angles: Clinical Expertise: Delivering prevention programs, conducting brief interventions, and providing long-term therapy. Specialist Focus: Sexual and family violence prevention and response, cross-cultural practice, and LGBTQIA+ advocacy. Leadership & Strategy: Shaping national strategies and policies, and managing teams within the social service landscape.