Our Mission: Transforming Lives Through Empathy
For over 15 years, we've been pioneering emotional intelligence education that creates authentic, lasting transformation in individuals and communities across New Zealand
Return HomeOur Story of Transformation
A journey that began with a simple belief: emotional intelligence can be learned, developed, and mastered by anyone willing to embrace authentic growth
The Beginning (2009)
Our academy was born from a profound realization during the global financial crisis. While organizations focused on technical skills and efficiency, we witnessed the critical importance of emotional resilience, empathy, and authentic communication in navigating uncertainty and change.
Founded by clinical psychologists and organizational development specialists, we initially served corporate teams struggling with communication breakdowns and leadership challenges. What started as weekend workshops quickly evolved into comprehensive programs that addressed the deeper aspects of human connection and self-awareness.
Foundation Year
Started with 3 facilitators and a vision to democratize emotional intelligence education
Evolution & Growth
Through the 2010s, we witnessed a remarkable shift in New Zealand's approach to mental health and wellbeing. Our programs evolved to incorporate cutting-edge neuroscience research, mindfulness practices, and cultural sensitivity training that honored both Māori and Pākehā perspectives on emotional wellness.
We pioneered the integration of traditional psychological approaches with innovative experiential learning methods. Our "Empathy Mapping" methodology became the cornerstone of our teaching, allowing participants to visualize and understand their emotional patterns in unprecedented ways.
Lives Transformed
Individuals who have completed our comprehensive emotional intelligence programs
Our Mission & Vision
Mission
To democratize emotional intelligence education by providing evidence-based, culturally sensitive programs that honor individual uniqueness while fostering universal human connection and understanding.
Vision
A world where emotional intelligence is as valued and developed as intellectual capabilities, creating communities built on empathy, authentic communication, and collective wellbeing.
Evidence-Based Methodology
Our approach combines cutting-edge neuroscience research with time-tested psychological principles and innovative experiential learning techniques
Neuroscience Integration
We apply neuroplasticity research to create learning experiences that literally rewire the brain for enhanced emotional processing and regulation.
Cognitive Behavioral Techniques
Practical tools for identifying thought patterns, challenging limiting beliefs, and developing healthier emotional responses to challenging situations.
Mindfulness Practices
Evidence-based mindfulness and meditation techniques that enhance present-moment awareness and emotional regulation capabilities.
Experiential Learning
Immersive role-playing, simulation exercises, and real-world application opportunities that accelerate skill development and retention.
Personalized Assessment
Comprehensive emotional intelligence profiling using validated psychological instruments to create customized learning pathways.
Peer Learning Networks
Structured peer support systems that provide ongoing feedback, accountability, and collaborative growth opportunities.
Professional Standards
Research Foundation
- Peer-reviewed psychological research integration
- Continuous methodology refinement based on outcomes
- Collaboration with international EI research centers
Quality Assurance
- Certified facilitator training and ongoing supervision
- Regular program evaluation and participant feedback
- Adherence to international ethical guidelines
Transformational Results & Benefits
Measurable improvements that extend far beyond the classroom, creating lasting positive change in every aspect of participants' lives
Long-Term Impact Studies
Our longitudinal research following participants over 24 months reveals sustained improvements in emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships, and professional effectiveness. These changes are not temporary boosts but represent fundamental shifts in how individuals understand and navigate their emotional landscape.
Enhanced Communication Skills
Improved active listening, nonverbal awareness, and conflict resolution abilities
Increased Empathy and Compassion
Greater understanding of others' perspectives and emotional experiences
Better Decision-Making
Integration of emotional and rational intelligence for optimal choices
Participant Feedback Highlights
"The program completely transformed how I understand my emotional responses. I'm more confident, more connected to my team, and significantly happier in my relationships."
"Six months later, I still use the techniques daily. My stress levels have dropped dramatically, and my colleagues have noticed the positive change in my leadership style."
"This isn't just professional development—it's life development. The skills I learned have improved every aspect of my personal and professional relationships."
Meet Our Expert Team
Passionate professionals dedicated to guiding your emotional intelligence journey with expertise, empathy, and unwavering support
Akaroa Sterling
Co-Founder & Lead Facilitator
Clinical psychologist with 15 years specializing in neuroscience-based emotional intelligence development. Expert in organizational psychology and trauma-informed approaches to emotional learning.
Taupo Meridian
Co-Founder & Research Director
Expert in mindfulness integration and evidence-based emotional intelligence assessment methodologies. Specializes in creating culturally sensitive programs that honor diverse emotional expressions.
Rotorua Mackenzie
Senior Program Facilitator
Specialist in corporate emotional intelligence training and leadership development. Brings 12 years of experience in executive coaching and team dynamics transformation.
Our Collective Expertise
Quality Standards & Safety Protocols
Our comprehensive approach ensures safe, ethical, and effective emotional intelligence development for every participant
Safety Protocols
Trauma-Informed Practices
All facilitators trained in recognizing and appropriately responding to trauma responses during emotional exploration exercises.
Confidentiality Safeguards
Strict confidentiality protocols protect participant privacy and create safe spaces for vulnerable emotional sharing.
Professional Referral Network
Established partnerships with mental health professionals for participants requiring additional therapeutic support.
Quality Assurance
Continuous Monitoring
Regular assessment of participant progress and program effectiveness using validated emotional intelligence measurement tools.
Facilitator Supervision
Monthly supervision sessions and annual professional development requirements ensure facilitator competency and growth.
External Accreditation
Programs independently evaluated and accredited by international emotional intelligence and adult education standards bodies.
Our Commitment to Excellence
Ethical Standards
Adherence to international psychological and educational ethics codes
Evidence-Based
All methods grounded in peer-reviewed research and clinical evidence
Ongoing Support
Continuous participant support throughout and beyond program completion
Our Values & Expertise
Since our establishment in 2009, the Emotional Intelligence Academy has become New Zealand's premier destination for comprehensive emotional intelligence education and self-awareness development. Our evidence-based approach combines cutting-edge neuroscience research with practical application, creating transformational learning experiences that produce measurable, lasting results.
Our expertise spans multiple domains of emotional intelligence development, including self-awareness enhancement, empathy cultivation, emotional regulation mastery, and interpersonal communication excellence. We specialize in serving professionals, leaders, and individuals seeking authentic personal growth through scientifically validated methodologies that honor both individual uniqueness and universal human experiences.
What distinguishes our academy is our commitment to cultural sensitivity and inclusivity, ensuring our programs resonate with New Zealand's diverse population while maintaining international standards of excellence. Our facilitators bring decades of combined experience in clinical psychology, organizational development, mindfulness training, and adult education, creating a rich learning environment that supports both professional and personal transformation.
We believe that emotional intelligence is not merely a skill set but a fundamental aspect of human development that influences every area of life. Our comprehensive programs address workplace effectiveness, relationship quality, stress management, leadership capabilities, and overall life satisfaction through integrated approaches that combine cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, experiential learning, and peer support networks.
Our track record speaks to our commitment to excellence: over 3,247 individuals have completed our programs with a 94% success rate, demonstrating measurable improvements in emotional intelligence competencies, workplace relationships, and personal wellbeing. These outcomes reflect our dedication to providing not just education, but genuine transformation that extends far beyond the classroom into every aspect of participants' lives.
Ready to Begin Your Transformation Journey?
Join our community of emotionally intelligent leaders and discover the profound impact of enhanced self-awareness and empathy on every aspect of your life.