Meet Esther Earl: Registered Psychologist and Team Lead

Esther comes from a Samoan family of eight. Her father, Talaolevave Leauanae, migrated to New Zealand in the 1950s and her mother, Aufataitao Mulipola, in the 1970s after they met and married in Hawaii. 

Born in Hamilton, Esther was raised in Mangere after spending time in Samoa and the United States. Her Pasifika background shapes her approach to psychology. 

"There's an understanding of Pasifika values that guides all aspects of my life and practice," Esther explains. "Building rapport with clients and whanau is about understanding and respecting the va that exists between us." 

Esther first trained as a music therapist and early childhood teacher before becoming a hospital play specialist at Kidz First Hospital. This sparked her journey into psychology, starting at the Ministry of Education working with schools between Papatoetoe and Pukekohe. She later led the Children's Service at Safe Network, worked at Oranga Tamariki, and served as senior psychologist at Korowai Manaaki Youth Justice residence. 

"I'm most passionate about working with children and young people, helping them recognise their amazing potential despite challenges," Esther shares. She lives by the mantra "Every interaction is an intervention," knowing that simple kindness can change a child's life path. 

The Fono marks Esther's first opportunity to work for a Pacific organisation. "I was drawn by the chance to work with my own people and community. I'm passionate about training and growing people's understanding and expanding our ability to work with young people." 

Esther believes open conversation is key to breaking down mental health stigma. "Being able to talanoa within our families with empathy is vital to addressing the shame that surrounds mental health in our communities." 

She stresses the connection between family and individual wellbeing: "In my work with young people, I highlight to parents that therapy won't make a difference if a child returns to the same environment that contributed to their challenges." 

Outside work, Esther enjoys quiet nights with books or crime documentaries, walks in Auckland parks, and occasional karaoke with friends. Seven years ago, she received a life-changing kidney-pancreas transplant. She also lived in South Korea for two years teaching English and is married to a Canadian – they are planning their first visit to Canada this Christmas.    Esther says, “For those hesitant to seek help, the first step is often the hardest... Reach out and talk to us to ask any questions – whether by phone, text, or email, whatever is most comfortable for you. We'll always respond, without judgement, and can walk you through the process of what support might be most helpful."