In June 2007 the ‘Just Therapy’ group of the Family Centre was the recipient of an award for a ‘Distinguished Contribution to Social Justice’ from the American Family Therapy Academy. In a unique set of co-incidences, two close colleagues also received awards. There were only 5 awards in all. David Epston from Auckland received an award for a Distinguished Contribution to Family Therapy Theory and Practice, and Stephen Madigan from Vancouver received the Innovative Contribution to Family Therapy award.

To our knowledge, no New Zealander has ever received an AFTA award prior to this, so it was very heartening that two awards were given to New Zealanders in 2007.

Warihi (Wally) Campbell, Taimalieutu Kiwi Tamaese and Charles Waldegrave travelled to Vancouver to be presented the award. Unfortunately Flora Tuhaka had to remain at home due to ill health. She was however, well remembered on the night. They were accompanied by Kuia Wikitoria Paaka, Paul Hirini and Kasia Waldegrave. Professor Karl Tomm, a dear friend from the University of Calgary, presented the award to the ‘Just Therapy’ team.