What’s in a name.
The name Two-Waters Psychology draws inspiration from the Māori word wairua, which can be understood through the words wai (water) and rua (two). Within te ao Māori, wairua carries a much deeper meaning than its literal translation, reflecting the spiritual dimensions of our existence and the connections between ourselves, others, and the world around us.
One interpretation of wairua speaks to the coming together of two waters, representing the connection between the physical and spiritual aspects of life. Rather than existing separately, these dimensions are deeply interconnected, each influencing and shaping the other. This understanding reflects a broader Māori perspective of wellbeing, where our physical, emotional, spiritual, cultural, and social experiences are all important parts of who we are.
For us, the idea of two waters coming together is a meaningful reflection of how I approach psychology. We are all shaped by different experiences, relationships, cultures, and circumstances, and these parts of our lives cannot always be understood in isolation. Just as water moves, meets, and finds new pathways, we too are continually adapting, growing, and finding our way through life's challenges.
Two-Waters Psychology represents this connection between the different parts of ourselves, and the importance of recognising the whole person rather than focusing solely on their difficulties. It reflects my belief that meaningful psychological care should honour each person's identity, experiences, and values, while supporting them to find greater balance, connection, and a way forward that feels right for them.
Connor Silvester
I'm a registered psychologist with experience working across a range of mental health and wellbeing concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, stress, and significant life changes. Alongside my clinical practice, I work as a university lecturer and researcher, which allows me to bring both practical experience and contemporary psychological research into my work with clients.
My approach to therapy is grounded in the belief that everyone brings their own experiences, strengths, values, and perspectives into the room. I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to psychological care. Instead, I take the time to understand what matters to you, the challenges you're facing, and what you would like to get out of therapy. I aim to create a space where you feel comfortable being yourself, where you can speak openly, and where we can work together at a pace that feels right for you.
I also recognise that our wellbeing is shaped by much more than what happens within us as individuals. Our relationships, culture, whānau, communities, and life experiences all play an important role. I strive to practise in a way that is culturally responsive, respectful, and attentive to the wider context of each person's life.
In my clinical work, I draw on evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR). While these approaches provide a foundation for therapy, I believe the relationship we build and the way we work together are just as important.
Whether you're working through something that has been difficult for a long time, navigating a recent change, or simply feeling that things aren't quite where you'd like them to be, my role is to help you make sense of your experiences and find a way forward that feels meaningful to you.
