The Path Program

Meet the Path team.

Path is co-developed and facilitated by clinicians and movement specialists who combine EMDR expertise, group therapy experience, and the therapeutic use of poi.

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SpinPoi founder and Path Program co-developer

Dr Kate Riegle van West

Dr Kate Riegle van West is a scientist, artist, and entrepreneur with a passion for play and wellbeing. She founded SpinPoi, the global leader in working with poi as a therapeutic tool. Dr Kate completed her PhD at the University of Auckland, where she conducted the first study to scientifically investigate the effects of poi on physical and cognitive function. Her work has earned University of Auckland Top 40 Under 40 recognition, the Royal Society of New Zealand Future Leader Award, and the Best Doctoral Thesis Award. Within Path, Dr Kate helps translate poi into a safe, accessible, and engaging form of bilateral rhythm.

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Clinical psychologist and Path Program co-developer

Dr Chris Neuenfeldt

Dr Chris Neuenfeldt is a clinical psychologist with expertise in EMDR, group EMDR, trauma recovery, and community response. He contributes the clinical EMDR framework for Path, including resourcing, processing structure, client safety, and the adaptation of EMDR principles for online group delivery. His work focuses on making evidence-informed trauma care more accessible across Aotearoa.

Dr Chris is also available for private assessments and therapy appointments through chrisneuenfeldt.com.