Kirsty Louden

Ko Kirsty louden tōku ingoa. Nō Scotland, nō Ireland, nō England ōku tīpuna. He tangata tiriti ahau. I grew up beside the beautiful moana of Te Whanagnui-a-Tara and it’s where I call home.

I’m a Clinical Psychologist and Project Lead for Aoake te Rā, a national service supporting whānau who have been bereaved by suicide. I’ve worked in suicide prevention and postvention for over 20 years now, drawn in part into this mahi through losses within my own whānau.

My mahi is grounded in hope, connection, and the belief that healing is strengthened and change happens when collective strengths and knowledge are woven together. I try to bring a values-led, relational approach to my mahi and feel very fortunate to work alongside so many across Aotearoa who are committed to this kaupapa.

I’m a mum of three and enjoy time with whānau, hanging out by the sea, or reading a book on the couch