LET’S TALK. WELL-BEING IS YOUR RIGHT. YOU DESERVE TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF FIRST.
YOU ARE YOUR PRIORITY
YOU ARE YOUR PRIORITY
Meet tZARA!
Kia ora, As-salamu alaykum, Namaste, Talofa, Mālō e lelei, my name is Tzara Ali and I’m so fortunate to be able to speak with you and be in your space. I’ve always been drawn to people’s perceptions, world-views, opinions, perspectives. It’s our duty as human beings to support our fellow humans and that’s all that I’m here for.
Academically, I hold three degrees. A Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Philosophy, a Postgraduate Diploma in Science in Psychology and a Master of Science in Psychology. “Is your Masters your last degree?”, I get asked this question several times and the answer to that is, NO!! I love studying and I love learning, I enjoy the pursuit of education more than the degree.
I’m not only a counsellor in-training, but each step of the way I’m receiving active supervision and mentoring by counsellors with more than 10+ years of experience.
I’m trained in CBT-I (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia) from the University of South Carolina. I am actively pursuing the certification in Gottman therapy as well as developing skills in DBT, CBT, ACT and just being human.
TZARA’S CULTURE
My story begins in Ōtautahi (Christchurch), where I was born before my family moved to West Bengal, India, when I was just one year old. Growing up in India shaped not only who I am, but how I understand people, family, identity, and the many ways culture influences our wellbeing.West Bengal, bordering Bangladesh, is one of the most culturally vibrant regions in South Asia. My family's roots also span the subcontinent. My paternal family originates from the historic region of Agra in northern India, while my grandmother's heritage traces back to Bangladesh, giving me a deep appreciation for the rich history, traditions, and resilience woven throughout South Asian cultures.I was fortunate to be raised in an Indian household and am fluent in English, Hindi, Bengali, and Urdu. Language is more than communication. It carries emotion, humour, history, and a sense of belonging. Being able to speak with individuals and families in the language that feels like home often creates a sense of comfort that words alone cannot describe.I am proudly Muslim, and one of the greatest gifts of growing up in India was experiencing its extraordinary diversity. Home to numerous religions, languages, traditions, and communities, India taught me from an early age that our differences are something to celebrate rather than fear. I have been privileged to grow up alongside friends from many different faiths and cultural backgrounds, an experience that continues to shape my curiosity, compassion, and respect for every person I meet.Today, I proudly call Aotearoa New Zealand home once again. Although I will always smile when I say I'm originally a South Island girl, I have now spent the past five years in the beautiful city of Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland), where I have continued my education, developed my professional practice, and deepened my connection to the country where my life first began.As part of my commitment to practising respectfully in Aotearoa, I continue to study te reo Māori each year. Learning the language is one small way I seek to honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi, uphold the values of mana and manaakitanga, and recognise the unique cultural foundations of this country. I believe cultural humility is not something we achieve. It is something we continue to practise throughout our lives.Being both Indian and Kiwi has given me the privilege of living between cultures rather than choosing one over the other. It has taught me that identity is not something fixed, but something beautifully layered. My hope is that every person who walks through the doors of Vortex Wellbeing feels that their own culture, story, beliefs, language, and identity are not simply acknowledged, but genuinely welcomed and respected.It is one of the greatest privileges of my life to have been born in one beautifully diverse country, raised in another, and to now have the opportunity to serve the wonderfully multicultural communities that make Aotearoa home. At Vortex Wellbeing, I believe that every culture has wisdom, every story deserves to be heard, and every person deserves care that honours who they are.
NOTHING CHANGES IF NOTHING CHANGES
Have things changed? Are things between you and your partner not the way it used to be? Is something missing? Let’s talk.
Do you have a neurodivergent child and would like support on giving them a good quality of life (QoL)? Would you like to do this as a family instead of by yourself? Let’s talk.
Are you having trouble sleeping? Are you unable to be fully present with your loved ones? Are things seeming heavier than usual? Let’s Talk.
Why We Exist
We are here because somewhere along this journey of life, we forgot that we’re humans. Humans support humans. Vortex has been founded on the premise that we are put on this planet to serve a purpose and just be. While all sessions are evidence-based, I remind myself, that we’re all human beings, and wellbeing needs to be at our core.
All conversations will be held online, although we are actively working on establishing in-person conversations in South-east Auckland!
We have huge plans of expanding internationally too in the coming future, all we need is your support and love!!
If you would like to have a conversation, please email me at
vortexhealthwellbeing@gmail.com
Stay In The Loop
VORTEX WELLBEING CLIENT CONTRACT
Aim of CounsellingThe aim of counselling is to provide you, the client, with a confidential opportunity to explore personal and relational issues in safety. During counselling, we set goals agreed between the client and the therapist. The client agrees to work towards the agreed goals. The role of your counsellor is to help you through this process without judgement or telling you what to do. We may on occasions give information, homework, or offer suggestions. If at any time we feel we can no longer help you, we will offer to refer you to someone who can. A therapist cannot fix your problems for you, and with personal or relationship issues the work will ultimately have to be done by you. You are paying us for our expertise and we will be providing you with information and making suggestions. The more you can take what was discussed during your session with us practice it, apply it, work at it, or think about it in between sessions, the more you will get out of coming to see us. Frequency of Sessions & Length of TherapyThere are benefits to making sessions weekly. Particularly in the early stages of therapy where many people find it hard to maintain the “momentum” of change outside of sessions, hence more frequent sessions help keep things on track. However, how often you come is affected by practical matters such as your ability to make time to, cost, travel etc. Sessions run for 45 minutes.Involvement with Other TherapiesIt is important to let us know of any involvement you have with any other health professionals, any other types of therapy, individual or group counselling or personal growth work. It is especially important to inform your counsellor about any forms of medication you are taking. This is to ensure they are not working at cross purposes with any other help you are receiving. Differences Between Therapist and ClientWhen a therapist is of a different gender, age, class, religion, sexual orientation or ethnicity from you there will probably be aspects of your experience that s/he will not know about or understand. We may want to talk to you about these differences to ensure understanding. PaymentOnline clients normally pay at the end of each session. You can pay by cash or by internet banking. Clients are liable for debt collection costs.Missed Appointments and Late Cancellations etc.Your counsellor may try to be flexible with changing appointment times. If you get sick or busy and doubt you’ll make the appointment, please contact your counsellor 2 business days before to let them know. If you are late your appointment will still have to finish on time to be fair to the next client. Repeated and/or last minute cancellations result in a full session amount being charged. Confidentiality & Limits to ConfidentialityIn most cases the fact that you are seeing your therapist, what you share with your therapist, and anything you might say to us, is private and we will not tell anyone else about this without your permission. There are exceptions to this privacy:1. With your permission we will liaise with other health professionals involved in your care to assist you in receiving the best possible care. If you have other professionals involved in your on-going care it is in your interests that we liaise with them in order to coordinate the help you are receiving. This still requires your permission. 2. If there is a situation where you or someone else is at risk of serious harm, which could be prevented by breaking confidentiality, then we/your therapist will act to prevent that harm. Unless there is an emergency or it would increase the risk of harm we/they would still try to discuss this with you first. 3. If your therapy is being paid for by someone else they will need to know whether or not you are attending. There is likely to be an obligation to report basic information about the therapy. Your therapist will normally consult you about what is going to be reported.4. We do not release therapy files to anyone for use in court proceedings unless ordered. This is not their intended use and they are too open to misinterpretation.5. We are happy to prepare notes, letters, reports and summaries within our scope. Please note time spent on such documents is charged at our standard consultation rate.6. All counsellors receive professional supervision from senior colleagues and peers on a regular basis. This is where we discuss aspects of our work that are challenging, successful or just seem to need reflecting on. Regular supervision provides a check on the quality and safety of our work, a means to develop knowledge and skills, and a place where we/therapists can talk about ways that our work is affecting us personally. Though the focus is primarily on us and our work we, of course, have to talk about our clients during supervision. We do our best to avoid saying anything that might identify a client. 7. There is admin staff contracted to the company. The may be aware of the client information required for admin purposes.8. By signing this contract we agree sessions will not be recorded or filmed (video or sound) without both of our prior knowledge and approval. Notes & FilesWe/therapists keep records of each session on file while working with you. Notes are securely kept after therapy, in case you choose to return at any stage. Contact Outside of TherapyIf you meet us/therapists accidentally in public it is OK to ignore them if you want. It is OK for you to phone, text, and email your therapist. However, you need to remember that they may not be able to talk for long, you might get our voicemail, and it may take them a while to get back to you. In a crisis situation you will need to rely on public crisis services such as Lifeline (0800 543 354) or your local Mental Health team. We offer limited support outside of regular hours. I/we have read and understood the above outline of issues that may affect therapy/online therapy and I am/we are happy to agree to therapy under the conditions outlined above.-I have read the terms and conditions of Vortex Wellbeing and agree to them. -I have read and understand the privacy information, confidentiality information, the complaints process, benefits and issues surrounding therapy.-I realise I have had a chance to ask any questions and discuss anything I choose. -I understand that taking part in counselling is my own choice, and that I may withdraw at any time and this will in no way affect my continuing health care. -I know what will be expected of me during the counselling relationship, and understand that if I do not meet these expectations it may reduce the effectiveness of the therapeutic journey. (signed)................................................................................ (date)..........................
Privacy Policy for Vortex Wellbeing Limited
Vortex Wellbeing Limited respects the privacy of our clients and is committed to protecting their personal information. For the purposes of this Privacy Policy, personal information means any information about an identifiable individual.
We recognise the sensitive nature of the information entrusted to us and are committed to maintaining our clients’ trust and confidence. This policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and protect personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act 2020 and other applicable New Zealand laws.
Access to personal information will be limited to authorised members of the Vortex Wellbeing Limited team and individuals engaged by the company to provide services on its behalf. Information will only be collected and used for the purposes of administering support services, carrying out administrative functions, obtaining feedback, improving our services, detecting and preventing security breaches, and complying with legal or contractual obligations.
We may also use information to assess which Vortex Wellbeing Limited services, programmes, training opportunities, or resources may be relevant to individuals and to personalise our communications. Information will not be used for any unrelated purpose.
Clients, contractors, and stakeholders must not be discussed with anyone outside Vortex Wellbeing Limited in any manner that could identify them as an individual.
All physical records will be stored in secure locations, and electronic records will be accessed only through secure systems and devices.
Except where disclosure is required by law, Vortex Wellbeing Limited will not sell, rent, or otherwise provide personal information to third parties. Information may be shared with subcontractors, payment processors, professional advisers, or other service providers acting on our behalf, provided appropriate confidentiality safeguards are in place.
Confidentiality agreements between Vortex Wellbeing Limited and clients may be reviewed and amended by mutual agreement.
Any breach of privacy obligations by staff, contractors, or clients may result in immediate review of the individual’s ongoing association with Vortex Wellbeing Limited.
We may update this policy from time to time. Any changes will be published on our website, and we encourage clients to review the policy periodically.
1. Vortex Wellbeing Limited’s Responsibilities
1.1 Vortex Wellbeing Limited will use its best endeavours to ensure that all advice, training, information, comments, and therapy services are provided with appropriate skill, care, professionalism, and sensitivity. However, Vortex Wellbeing Limited cannot be held responsible for any action or inaction taken by a client based on the information or services provided.
1.2 Individuals responding through Vortex Wellbeing Limited websites or communication platforms may include administrative staff, contractors, therapists, or authorised stakeholders.
1.3 Although all reasonable care will be taken to maintain confidentiality of communications, Vortex Wellbeing Limited shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, or other loss arising from the unauthorised interception of information by third parties.
1.4 Vortex Wellbeing Limited reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to terminate the provision of services where it considers such termination appropriate.
1.5 Vortex Wellbeing Limited, its agents, contractors, stakeholders, administrative staff, and therapists will use best endeavours to maintain appropriate protection against viruses, malware, and other potentially destructive software.
2. Personal Data and Information
2.1 All information exchanged between clients and Vortex Wellbeing Limited will be treated as confidential except as outlined in this policy or as required by law.
2.2 Clients, contractors, staff, and stakeholders must not be discussed with anyone outside Vortex Wellbeing Limited in any way that could identify them.
2.3 Vortex Wellbeing Limited staff, contractors, and authorised stakeholders may disclose information without consent in the following circumstances:
Child abuse or neglect
Where there is reason to believe a child has been abused, neglected, or is at risk of harm.
Abuse of vulnerable adults
Where an elderly or disabled person is believed to be experiencing abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
Regulatory oversight
Where information is lawfully requested by a regulatory authority, the Health and Disability Commissioner (HDC), or another body with legal authority to obtain such information.
Judicial or administrative proceedings
Where disclosure is required by a court order or other lawful process.
Serious threat to health or safety
Where there is a serious and imminent risk of harm to the client or another person.
Reporting misconduct
Where disclosure is necessary to report abuse, exploitation, or professional misconduct by a previous therapist or practitioner to the relevant New Zealand regulatory authority.
3. Collection of Personal Information
3.1 Vortex Wellbeing Limited collects personal information for the purposes of providing wellbeing support, maintaining records, communicating regarding ongoing services, complying with legal and regulatory obligations, accounting procedures, accreditation requirements, and complaints management.
3.2 Personal information may include:
Name and contact details
Health and relevant medical history
Counselling or therapy session notes
Payment information (where applicable)
Any other information relevant to the services being provided
3.3 Information is collected with consent and may be obtained directly from the individual or, where appropriate, from other healthcare or wellbeing professionals involved in the individual’s care.
3.4 Contractor information may also be collected from educational institutions, regulatory bodies, courts, police, or other authorised sources where relevant and lawful.
3.5 Personal information will be retained only for as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes for which it was collected or as required by law. Information that is no longer required will be securely destroyed or permanently de-identified.
4. Use of Personal Information
4.1 Personal information collected by Vortex Wellbeing Limited is used for service delivery, administration, accreditation processes, complaint resolution, regulatory compliance, and quality improvement.
4.2 Information may be used to communicate with clients, contractors, staff, peers, and stakeholders regarding services, appointments, updates, events, invoices, and other relevant matters.
4.3 Information will be used only for the purposes for which it was collected and in accordance with the consent provided.
5. Disclosure of Personal Information
5.1 Vortex Wellbeing Limited may disclose personal information to regulatory authorities, law enforcement agencies, courts, or other legal entities where required by law.
Therapy notes are created for clinical purposes and will not generally be released for use in legal proceedings unless required by a lawful order.
5.2 Information may also be disclosed to external service providers for administration, accounting, website hosting, secure communications, payment processing, or other operational functions.
5.3 Information may be shared with other healthcare providers involved in a client’s care where the client has provided consent or where disclosure is otherwise authorised by law.
5.4 All disclosures will be made with appropriate safeguards to protect privacy and confidentiality.
6. Security of Personal Information
6.1 Vortex Wellbeing Limited implements appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect personal information from unauthorised access, disclosure, alteration, loss, or destruction.
6.2 Information is stored securely in both electronic and physical formats, with access restricted to authorised personnel.
6.3 Vortex Wellbeing Limited regularly reviews and updates its security measures to maintain appropriate protection standards.
7. Access and Correction of Personal Information
7.1 Individuals have the right to request access to their personal information and to request corrections where information is inaccurate, incomplete, or outdated.
7.2 Requests for access or correction should be submitted in writing to Vortex Wellbeing Limited.
7.3 Vortex Wellbeing Limited will respond within a reasonable timeframe and in accordance with the Privacy Act 2020.
7.4 Individuals may withdraw consent for the use of their personal information at any time, subject to legal or contractual obligations that require retention or use of certain information.
8. Compliance and Accountability
8.1 Vortex Wellbeing Limited is committed to complying with the privacy principles set out in the Privacy Act 2020 and all other relevant New Zealand privacy laws and regulations.
8.2 Vortex Wellbeing Limited maintains responsibility for overseeing privacy compliance, responding to privacy enquiries, and addressing privacy-related concerns.
8.3 Regular privacy audits, assessments, and staff training are conducted to support ongoing compliance and continuous improvement.
8.4 If you believe Vortex Wellbeing Limited has not complied with its privacy obligations, you may contact us directly. We will investigate your concerns and respond as promptly as reasonably practicable.
CODE OF ETHICS
At Vortex Wellbeing, we are committed to providing safe, ethical, culturally responsive, and evidence-informed wellbeing services. This Code of Ethics outlines the professional standards that guide our work and our commitment to protecting the dignity, rights, safety, and wellbeing of every person we support.
Our Core Values
Vortex Wellbeing is guided by:
Respect for every individual
Human dignity and compassion
Ethical and responsible care
Personal and professional integrity
Collaborative partnerships
Social justice and equity
Cultural humility and responsiveness
We recognise the importance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and commit to practising in ways that respect Aotearoa New Zealand’s cultural context, while acknowledging the diverse cultural, spiritual, and personal backgrounds of all clients.
Ethical Practice
Vortex Wellbeing practitioners will:
Treat all individuals with respect, kindness, and without discrimination.
Work within their professional competence, training, and scope of practice.
Maintain appropriate professional boundaries.
Prioritise client safety and wellbeing.
Respect client autonomy, choices, and right to informed consent.
Provide clear information about services, fees, confidentiality, and expectations.
Refer clients to appropriate services when their needs fall outside our expertise.
Engage in ongoing professional development and supervision.
Respect, Diversity and Inclusion
We are committed to providing inclusive services that respect differences in culture, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, disability, age, beliefs, and life experiences.
Practitioners will reflect on their own values and biases, seek cultural understanding, and ensure their practice promotes dignity, empowerment, and fairness for all clients.
Confidentiality and Privacy
Vortex Wellbeing respects the privacy and confidentiality of all clients.
Client information will only be shared:
With informed consent from the client; or
When required by law; or
When necessary to prevent serious harm to the client or others.
Client records will be securely stored and managed in accordance with relevant legal and professional requirements.
Professional Relationships
Practitioners at Vortex Wellbeing maintain clear boundaries and will not engage in relationships that exploit, harm, or compromise the therapeutic relationship.
We are committed to respectful communication with clients, colleagues, supervisors, and other professionals involved in client care.
Supervision and Accountability
Vortex Wellbeing practitioners engage in regular supervision and reflection to maintain ethical, safe, and effective practice.
We recognise that professional growth requires ongoing learning, feedback, and accountability.
Online and Electronic Services
Where services are provided online, Vortex Wellbeing will take reasonable steps to protect client privacy and clearly communicate the benefits, limitations, and risks of electronic communication.
Clients will be informed about confidentiality, communication expectations, availability, and their rights when accessing online services.
Commitment to Clients
At Vortex Wellbeing, we aim to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel heard, respected, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives.
We are committed to providing services that are compassionate, ethical, culturally considerate, and grounded in evidence-based practice.
Contact us now for more info!
We are currently only offering online conversations!
Please check your spam folder if you do not receive an email reply to your inquiry or booking. vortexhealthwellbeing@gmail.com
Phone: 0223104767
Phone or Text: 0223104767