Keri
Counsellor
After completing my degree in sport and exercise science I began my career working in immigration detention supporting detainees to engage in sport and exercise. After seeing first hand the effects of exercise on mental health I returned to university to complete my studies in psychology to enable me to provide my clients with a holistic approach. I have since worked in mental health for 7 years and completed training in additional therapeutic modalities including peer support work. This has allowed me to utilize my lived experience in my practice, particularly the profound effects of mindfulness through movement which was the catalyst for my journey as a mental health professional. I specialize in working with youth, individuals with ADHD, trauma survivors, those navigating self-harm or suicidal thoughts, and individuals facing challenges related to infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and young families. Known for my kind and compassionate approach, I excel in building trust and rapport quickly, creating a safe and comfortable space where clients can openly explore their feelings. Drawing from personal experiences, I bring a unique perspective to counseling, ensuring personalized support that resonates deeply with each individual I work with.
Tawny
Peer Support Mentor
My story starts at 17 years old at a very clear crossroads in my life. I was on an incredibly destructive path of addiction and crime when I was introduced to a group of people who had also struggled with addiction. They used their shared experiences and understanding of each other to help each other stay abstinent from drugs and alcohol. This was my introduction into the world of peer support. The value I got from this group of people, who had been where I had been, was immeasurable. They understood my situation from a personal perspective rather than because they learnt about it from a book or in a classroom.
Where my life had been clearly headed toward incarceration or death, I am proud to say I have now been abstinent from drugs and alcohol for over 15 years, have an incredibly rewarding marriage and a beautiful young family. This journey has been incredibly challenging and has included ups and downs, experiences of mental health challenges and more recently, adapting to being a new father.
My approach to supporting others is based in the Intentional Peer Support (IPS) framework where I utilise my own experiences of mental health challenges, addiction, accessing services and fatherhood to build connection and help empower those I support to make a start on the road of recovery.