who I am
heather penzel
Originally from the north central region of the US, I have lived in Aotearoa New Zealand since January 2019. I use they/them pronouns, am a cat person, and have a startlingly loud laugh. I grew up in a conservative Christian context and have engaged in the the hard work of deconstruction and reconstruction of my spirituality. Over the years, I have experienced a rich variety of spiritual expressions and faith traditions. In learning the traditional Māori practices of mirimiri and romiromi, reiki in the Takata lineage, and experiencing Christian healing practices, I have noted the common threads that connect healing of the mind, body and spirit together.
My professional life started out as a secondary school teacher before working with young adults experiencing homelessness and in adult mental health support. Having had my own challenges with mental health, I use a peer lens and a trauma-informed, holistic framework when supporting others with mental distress. This accompanies me into my vocation as a spiritual companion. I have earned a Master’s degree in Spiritual Formation from Portland Seminary, a school founded in the Quaker tradition, where I was also trained as a Spiritual Director.
I grew up in a middle-class, yet dysfunctional and addiction-effected environment. Undeniably aware of the privilege of being a white American, it can yet be difficult being a non-binary queer person. These experiences have given me a soft heart for people who struggle and come to a cross-roads. While darkness can be overwhelming at times, I have learned that it will pass. A sacred text that has long been a touchstone for me reads, “I am certain that God, who began the good work in you, will carry it onto completion...” My hope is pass this faith onto help others, to empower them to see themselves as divinely created, whole individuals – body, mind, emotions and spirit. The values that drive my life are justice, peace, integrity, community, and equity. Whether it be with family, friends, or the community one is a part of, their wish is to be a welcoming presence, hospitable and safe for everyone I cross paths with.
rooted in
quaker tradition
There are nine core beliefs of Quakerism:
There is a living, dynamic presence at work in the world which is both within us and outside of us.
There is that of Spirit in everyone.
Each person is capable of the direct and unmediated experience of God as you understand God.
Our understanding of Creator is nurtured and enlarged in community.
The Bible is one important spiritual resource, and the life and teachings of Jesus are relevant for us today.
The revelation of eternal truth is continuing and ongoing.
We welcome truth from whatever source it may come.
Our inward experience of God transforms us and leads us into outward expressions of faithful living, witness, and action.
Modeling God’s presence in our lives is more important than espousing our beliefs.
what people are saying
“Heather created such an amazingly safe and welcoming space for me. I have had several interesting revelations while working with her. They are a kind and wonderful soul. Looking forward to more. Thank you, Heather!”
- Michelle, Portland
“I felt warm and welcome when I met Heather. I took with me two intentions to the reiki session and came away with a positive mindset towards both; this carried on to positive outcomes in my own life. Heather was thorough in identifying her own perspectives and insights which were quite applicable to my own life.”
— Rhihanna, Ōtautahi