Bonnie Lovich-Howitt (Counsellor)

Overview

Bonnie Lovich-Howitt is a DAPAANZ Registered Counsellor/Practitioner and External Supervisor for Clinical and Peer Support External Supervision. Her expertise has been recognised nationally and internationally—she has presented at the International Gambling Conferences and Cutting Edge Conferences, and actively contributes to DAPAANZ Tikanga Matatika through round table discussions and learning labs. In 2023, Bonnie received the DAPAANZ Excellence in Clinical Supervision Award in recognition of her dedication to the field.

Bonnie holds a Bachelor's in Social Practice with a Major in Counselling from Unitec, a Level 6 qualification in Addictions and Mental Health Experience Supervision, and a Level 5 qualification in Gambling Harm Interventions. She is also an accredited 5 Step Method practitioner, supporting whānau affected by alcohol, drug, and gambling misuse.

Skills and Experience

Bonnie's career includes experience in a maximum security Drug Treatment Unit and a role as Northern Region Clinical Practice Leader. She works across a broad range of areas including depression, anxiety, neurodiversity, addiction and substance misuse, trauma, and crisis intervention and suicide risk assessment. Her expertise extends to working with people navigating alcohol, drug, and gambling challenges, alongside co-existing mental health conditions. She also works with couples and whānau, domestic, sexual, and family violence, elder abuse, and supporting children affected by violence.

Supervision Approach

Bonnie's supervision approach is whaiora-centred, solution-focused, and grounded in best practice. She provides constructive feedback that fosters self-awareness and professional growth, believing that celebrating successes is just as important as addressing challenges.

She incorporates knowledge of Tikanga Māori into her practice and brings skills in leadership development, management, mediation, and conflict resolution. She is committed to LGBTQIA+ inclusivity and is experienced in group supervision and training.