Julia Sherwood
Caring for someone with dementia is often a life-changing experience. After a career in Adult Learning and Development, I retrained as a counsellor because of my own extensive experience supporting whānau through this process.
My connection to this work is personal. Both of my grandmothers had dementia, as did my mother, for whom I was the primary support. My partner lives with younger-onset dementia; I cared for him at home for many years, and he is now in a hospital-level care facility.
I know the emotional rollercoaster first-hand: the frustration, the guilt, the isolation, and the sadness and grief that begin long before a loved one is gone. I offer a safe, confidential environment where you can speak honestly about these issues without judgement. Together, we can explore your personal and relational challenges and find ways to make your daily life more manageable.
Experience and professional focus
While my practice is grounded in lived experience, it is also backed by advanced specialist training. I have worked as a counsellor since 2022 and have supported hundreds of carers.
Primary focus: I predominantly work with partners, adult children, and whānau supporting a person with dementia.
Dyads and early stage dementia support: I occasionally work with the person with dementia and their carer together, or the person with dementia individually, during the earlier stages of their diagnosis.
Research-informed: My academic work is specifically focused on dementia caregiving, ensuring my practice is informed by the most recent developments in the field.
Qualifications and Recognition
• Master of Counselling (Candidate), University of Auckland.
• First in Course Award: Dementia Care (2025), University of Auckland.
• First in Course Award: Research and Counselling (2023), University of Auckland.
• Registered with NZAC: New Zealand Association of Counsellors.
• Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling Theory (with Distinction).
• Postgraduate Diploma in Adult Education.
• Bachelor of Arts (Psychology and Education).
Referals or direct contact
Most of my clients are referred through dementia organisations, by existing clients or find me directly online.
Fees: The standard fee is $130 per 60-minute session. However, I am committed to making counselling accessible; please ask about reduced rates or affordable payment options if needed.
I am registered with the New Zealand Association of Counselling (NZAC). You can find my profile here.
Please contact me for a no-obligation brief chat during which we can establish whether or how I can help you with your current challenges. I can meet in person in my Grey Lynn Auckland office or meet online.