About
Trusted Experts in Assessment, Advocacy
and Support
Talking Shop was established in 2006 to provide high-quality, compassionate assessments for individuals navigating New Zealand’s justice system. With deep clinical expertise, cultural insight, and a strong reputation among legal professionals, our team works to ensure every report we produce is accurate, meaningful, and influential in court settings.
More about the Team
Shane Pleasance
MBA, R/N, PGCERT, BSc (Hons), MinstD, DAPAANZ Reg Prac
Shane Pleasance is a qualified clinician, professional director, and trusted provider of court assessments and therapeutic services across Aotearoa New Zealand.
Raised in South Africa and trained in both the United Kingdom and New Zealand, Shane brings a unique combination of clinical knowledge, international experience, and personal resilience to his work. He is known for his integrity, pragmatism, and commitment to supporting people through some of life’s most challenging moments.
Shane specialises in court-focused alcohol and drug assessments, Section 27 cultural reports, and counselling services. His reports are frequently recognised by legal professionals and judges for their clarity, depth, and rehabilitative focus.
Qualifications:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Massey University
- Bachelor of Science (Hons) – Psychology and Counselling
- Postgraduate Certificate in Health Science (Addictions) – University of Otago
- Registered Nurse – NZ Nursing Council
- Registered Practitioner – dapaanz (Drug and Alcohol Practitioners’ Association of Aotearoa NZ)
Member – Institute of Directors
Edward Pleasance
MA, BA, dapaanz Member
Edward works alongside Shane at Talking Shop, supporting the delivery of culturally competent and clinically informed assessments and therapeutic services. With a strong academic background and a commitment to evidence-based practice, Edward contributes to both Section 27 cultural reports and alcohol and drug assessments.
He is a registered member of dapaanz and is known for his professional, respectful approach and his ability to connect with clients in a way that supports honest, constructive engagement.