Rupi is a registered Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist with over 25 years experience in the mental health field. She has been specifically trained in working with children, adolescents, and their families. She also has a background in psychology and education which, she believes assists her to understand other systems, approaches, and ways of working. Rupi completed her Masters, through the Department of Psychological Medicine, Otago University (Wellington Campus). Her research was based on the eating attitudes and body Image of Samoan adolescent females.

Rupi has strong family connections with Pacific Island countries, particularly Samoa and Fiji, which has warmed her to the Polynesian culture, including the Māori culture. Rupi believes in the strength of the family system, in all its forms. She is passionate about working with children and families. In particular, working alongside parents to make sense of their child’s world.

Rupi’s philosophy for her work is to meet each individual (whatever their age, size, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation etc.) with respect and compassion. This means that she will meet each individual where they are emotionally, psychologically, physically and cognitively, go at their pace, and provide a safe and secure environment . Rupi believes in the strength of vulnerability and the strength of difference:

“I have found through my own experience and the observation of amazing people who have entered my life that the ability to be vulnerable or find yourself in vulnerable positions and be open to ones vulnerability is an incredible strength and can only lead to wisdom and growth” - Rupi Riley