This award is conferred upon Jan Currie for services to NZAP and to psychotherapy in Aotearoa / New Zealand. Over the past almost twenty yearsJan has worked with enormous enthusiasm, integrity and passion for the development of both the Association and psychotherapy as a profession, especially in Christchurch. As a Council member from 1985 – 1996, the Association benefited enormously from her astute mind and attention co detail,linked with a sensitivity towards others and an endearing sense of humour. Jan was President of the NZAP. during 1991 and 1992. Her dedication to the Association was further demonstrated by her willingness to hold the office of Past President from 1993 – 1996 during a particularly sad time for the Association.
Before moving into private practice, Jan worked for Presbyterian Support Services, providing therapy, supervision, education and training. She was a significant contributor co the counselling and psychotherapy courses chat were offered, which were then unique in Christchurch. In her efforts to promote the profession of psychotherapy and to provide ongoing learning and professional interchange for a wide range of psychotherapists, Jan has initiated and facilitated many workshops and clinical meetings and invited and hosted overseas speakers. She has been a much sought-after teacher and supervisor and has accepted regular teaching engagements at the Polytechnic and Christchurch Medical School.
Jan has contributed significantly over the years to many aspects of the Association’s development, co the professional standing of psychotherapy in New Zealand and co the promotion of psychotherapy amongst her colleagues.