About Us

Just as the kōwhai tree blossoms each spring, symbolising growth and renewal, we at Kōwhai Trade Services are dedicated to fostering a fresh approach to psychosocial safety in the workplace. Our mission is to help trade businesses across New Zealand create environments where mental well-being thrives, enabling workers to reach their full potential in both mind and body.

Our Story

Sam Dudek and Stephanie O’Brien have been working together for over 8 years, combining their expertise to create Kōwhai Trade Services. Both come from families deeply rooted in the trades, and their personal experiences have shown them the profound impact mental health and well-being can have on the workplace. With qualifications in psychology, neurobiology, teaching, and counselling, they’ve developed a unique and powerful approach to addressing workplace psychosocial safety.

Meet The Team

Stephanie O'Brien

Founder & CEO

Meet Steph O'Brien

Born and raised in Wellington, Stephanie initially pursued a career in medicine before her passion for neurobiology took over. She became fascinated with how the brain functions and the root causes of mental health issues. Realising that helping others understand these mechanisms was key to reducing overwhelm and empowering change, she shifted her focus to education and counselling. Today, Stephanie uses her deep knowledge of neurobiology to inspire others, showing how understanding mental health can motivate individuals to take meaningful steps toward improving their well-being.

Samantha Dudek

Founder & CCO

Meet Sam Dudek

Sam brings a wealth of psychological and counselling expertise to Kōwhai Trade Services, shaped by her upbringing in a military family. As an "army brat" growing up alongside British soldiers from the 1980s to the early 2000s, Sam witnessed firsthand the extreme effects of workplace environments on mental health and psychosocial safety. This experience ignited her passion for understanding the human mind and its response to stress, leading her to pursue a career in psychology, counselling, and education. Sam is driven by her desire to help individuals and organisations foster healthier, more supportive workplaces.

Claire Teal

Counsellor

Claire is a queer, cisgender woman and mother who brings warmth, understanding, and empathy to her work. She’s skilled in creating safe, respectful spaces where tradies can share their stories and challenges in a way that honours their individuality.

With expertise in narrative therapy, strengths-based practice, and trauma-informed approaches, Claire offers valuable support for those in high-pressure environments like the trades.

If you’re working through personal struggles or the pressures of family life while managing a demanding job, Claire’s approach can offer practical and meaningful support.

When she’s not counselling, you can find Claire taking photographs on wild beaches, seeking out the best coffee, or spending quality time with her family and friends.

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