Social work is an internationally recognised, tertiary-qualified profession grounded in the pursuit of social justice and human rights. Social workers aim to enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities, empowering people to reach their full potential. The profession is built on the core principles of social justice, human rights, collective responsibility, and respect for diversity. These are informed by theories of social work, social sciences, humanities, and Indigenous knowledges. Social workers are trained to understand the interplay between biological, psychological, social, and cultural factors that influence a person’s health, wellbeing, and development. We work with individuals, families, groups, and communities, maintaining a dual focus on personal wellbeing and addressing broader systemic or structural issues such as inequality, injustice, and discrimination.

Mental health is influenced by everyday foundations such as diet, sleep, physical activity, and relationships. However, there are times when these alone are not enough, and additional strategies or professional support are needed. My therapeutic approach is guided by current research and evidence-based practice, with safety as the core foundation. Feeling safe across your home, workplace, and social settings is vital to sustaining wellbeing. I also use metacognitive approaches, helping you reflect on unhelpful thinking patterns that may be keeping you stuck. In practice, I support people dealing with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, shame, stress, relationship challenges, poor boundaries, and difficulties with motivation and resilience.

I am a strong advocate of the mental health recovery model, which centres on the belief that you are the author of your own recovery journey. You define what recovery looks like and determine when you have achieved it. My role is to walk alongside you, providing expertise, guidance, and compassionate support. Together, we explore your experiences in a non-judgemental and respectful space. The therapeutic process is collaborative, confidential, and goal-oriented. We track progress and adapt strategies to ensure you are moving towards meaningful outcomes.

I also place strong emphasis on the body-mind connection. Your body holds your history, and your mind listens to what your body communicates. Interoception, or the ability to interpret internal bodily signals, plays a key role in emotional regulation, mood, decision-making, and your sense of safety. I incorporate body-based interventions such as body sensing and mapping to help you tune into these signals and improve self-regulation. With over 27 years of experience in the mental health field, I draw on a wide range of tools and therapeutic frameworks. My interventions are evidence-based and tailored to your needs, incorporating cognitive, somatic, and behavioural techniques to support your growth and healing.

Paediatric Social Work (0-12yrs)

Paediatric social work supports children through their early developmental stages with a strong focus on prosocial behaviour, emotional wellbeing, and the gradual transition to independence. Our work is grounded in evidence-based approaches that support children, families, and caregivers in promoting growth, connection, and resilience.

Key areas of focus include:

• Emotional regulation – Supporting children to recognise, understand, and manage their emotions in healthy, constructive ways to promote emotional balance and reduce distress.

• Social skill development – Building children’s capacity for empathy, communication, and conflict resolution to help form positive peer and adult relationships.

• Healthy attachment – Strengthening secure, consistent relationships with caregivers, forming the basis for trust, safety, and emotional security throughout life.

• Resilience building – Teaching coping skills and problem-solving strategies to help children manage adversity and build emotional strength and flexibility.

• Behavioural support – Addressing concerns such as aggression, impulsivity, and social withdrawal through tailored behaviour strategies that support emotional and relational development.

• Coping strategies – Equipping children with practical tools to manage stress, anxiety, and change, enhancing their ability to adapt and self-regulate.

• Self-esteem and confidence – Encouraging a healthy sense of identity and confidence in their abilities, helping children value their unique strengths and contributions.

• Problem-solving skills – Supporting children to think critically and approach challenges with curiosity, creativity, and persistence.

• Empathy development – Helping children to understand others' perspectives and feelings, promoting compassion, kindness, and emotional awareness.

• Communication skills – Enhancing both verbal and non-verbal communication so children can express needs, share ideas, and connect with others effectively.

• Mindfulness and self-awareness – Introducing age-appropriate mindfulness techniques that foster awareness of thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations, promoting calm and focus.

• Growth mindset – Promoting optimism, persistence, and the belief that abilities can improve with effort, helping children approach learning and life with confidence.

Paediatric social work prioritises connection, safety, and developmentally appropriate interventions. We work closely with caregivers, educators, and other professionals to support the child’s overall wellbeing, capacity, and sense of self.