Helen Schmidt-Sopoaga

Helen brings over 20 years of clinical experience in the addictions sector, spanning residential, youth, family, lived experience, research, and outpatient services. With a background in Psychology (University of Auckland) and Indigenous Studies (University of Otago), she is passionate about models of care that centre Pacific families, especially women and children, and advancing equity in health services.She is currently a Clinical Team Leader for Community Alcohol and Drug Services (CADS) South Auckland, New Zealand’s largest alcohol and other drug service.

Helen is a Registered dapaanz Practitioner, an Accredited Clinical Supervisor, and an influential voice nationally as Co-Chair of DRUA (the Pasifika addictions network), member of NCAT (National Committee for Addiction Treatment), the Te Whatu Ora National Pacific Health Senate Fatu Fono Ola, and the Le Va Clinical Reference Group. Her leadership reflects a strong commitment to Pacific workforce development and growing Pacific leaders across the sector.

Of Samoan heritage, Helen’s tamā Filotumua Petelo Schmidt hails from Safotu and Paia, and her tinā Asi Litia (née Lelevaga) from Iva and Asaga, Savai‘i. She also has aiga connections to Hamburg, Germany, and Portugal. Helen lives in Tāmaki Makaurau with her husband, three children, two dogs, and one cat.