Mina Aelyn Lee

MA (Psychology), BA (Hons) Psychology, BHSc

Position

Academic Lecturer

Teaching area

Counselling & Psychology

Biography

Mina Lee is a Korean-Kiwi who has spent most of her life in Aotearoa New Zealand. Living across cultures has deeply shaped her understanding of identity, relationships, and wellbeing, and continues to influence the way she approaches both her work and life.

Mina has spent many years studying and working in the fields of psychology, health science, and counselling. Her academic journey reflects a strong passion for understanding human behaviour, personal growth, and the ways people make meaning of their experiences. Through her study and professional work, she has developed a deep appreciation for the importance of authentic connection, reflection, and relational understanding.

Alongside her counselling work, Mina also practises equine-assisted counselling. Her connection with horses is an important part of her approach to wellbeing, as she values the powerful ways experiential work with animals can support insight, emotional awareness, and healing.

Beyond her professional work, Mina is also a horse-riding instructor and enjoys spending time outdoors with her partner, often riding motorbikes and exploring the natural landscapes of Aotearoa.

Why I love MIT

Working at the Manukau Institute of Technology is deeply meaningful because of the diversity and strong sense of community within the learning environment. I truly value the opportunity to work alongside students and colleagues from many different cultural backgrounds and life experiences, and believe this richness brings depth and honesty to the learning process.

Publications

Lee, M. A., & Fletcher, R. (2023). Exploring the well-being of a Korean immigrant family caring for their elderly parent with an enduring mental illness. New Zealand Journal of Psychology, 53(1). https://doi.org/10.63146/001c.129245

Research interests

Therapeutic relationships, pluralistic counselling practice, relational wellbeing, cross-cultural identity and lived experience, experiential approaches to therapy, and equine-assisted counselling.

Memberships and affiliations

NZAC (New Zealand Association of Counsellors/Te Rōpū Kaiwhiriwhiri o Aotearoa)