At Toi Ora, we are privileged to have Hedieh as a dedicated member of our team for the past two years. Originally from Iran, Hedieh’s journey to New Zealand was driven by an interest in cultural diversity and intercultural dynamics. She holds a master’s degree in psychology from her home country and furthered her studies in New Zealand, where she earned a PhD in psychology from the University of Auckland. Her research focused on the interplay between parenting, culture, and human development, reflecting her deep commitment to understanding and enhancing individual well-being.
In addition to her academic achievements, Hedieh is a certified dance movement therapist, she believes in the transformative power of creative expression. Her work spans a diverse range of settings, where she passionately supports both adults and children, integrating her expertise in psychology with her love for movement.
From an early age, Hedieh has been captivated by the arts, especially dance. She incorporates dance into her daily routine and enjoys exploring various dance forms through videos. This lifelong passion fuels her belief in the importance of movement as a natural and accessible form of self-expression.
Hedieh finds inspiration in the intersection of dance and personal narratives of success, drawing strength and motivation from both. Her creative spirit extends beyond dance, as she also engages in sewing, knitting, and mosaic making. These activities complement her therapeutic work, providing additional avenues for creativity and personal expression.
Hedieh’s work at Toi Ora reflects her deep-seated belief in the power of creative and artistic methods to enhance well-being. Her approach helps to challenge the misconception that movement requires a certain level of skill, highlighting instead that dance and movement are fundamental, innate aspects of our humanity.
We are grateful for Hedieh’s contributions and her ability to inspire and support our community through her innovative and compassionate approach.