Psychology AND Spirit: decades of bicultural practice

What happens when Te Ao Māori and Western clinical psychology meet in some of the country’s highest-risk environments? In this episode of Inked Psycho, cultural consultant and therapist Mate Webb shares his remarkable journey—from carver to postgraduate CBT practitioner working in a specialized child sex offender treatment unit. Mate explains how holding indigenous wisdom and clinical practice side by side creates a powerful framework for real rehabilitation. We dive into what Western clinical frameworks often overlook—from wairua and matakite to collective identity—and why his approach centers on "leaving the taiaha at the door and bringing a feather." Whether you are a psychologist, counsellor, social worker, student, or curious about the intersection of culture, faith, and healing, Mate’s insights offer profound lessons for practice in Aotearoa and beyond. In this conversation: • From woodcarver to forensic treatment unit: 18 years at Te Piriti • Learning CBT and being told to "park the Māori stuff" • Te Whare Tapa Whā & the double-hulled waka (tikanga takirua) • "Leave the taiaha at the door, bring a feather": Leading from humility • Wairua, makutu, and matakite: Why seeing a spirit isn't necessarily schizophrenia • Utu, muru, and understanding collective identity • Mentoring the next generation of psychologists in Aotearoa • Walking between Catholic faith, Māori worldview, and clinical ethics • What genuine rehabilitation requires after prison release #Psychology #IndigenousPsychology #MentalHealth #Aotearoa #Counselling Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.