Interests

• Supporting young people reach their potential
• Stress, anxiety and depression across the lifespan
• Practical and eclectic interventions for psychological problems
• The manifestation of psychological disorders within young people
• Supporting children and young people with complex needs
• Program evaluation and development
• Applied research and policy development
• Social advocacy

Background

I have worked within both government and non-government agencies, and as a clinical psychologist in private practice. I value an eclectic and practical approach which brings together a wide range of psychological techniques that are tailored to the individual's needs. My approach is always guided by scientific research, but with a pragmatic orientation.

I see that every person is unique and has special needs and strengths. I value the relationship between the client and myself as being a central ingredient to achieving positive change. I apply perspectives from clinical and developmental psychology, sociology, Eastern psychology, neuropsychology, educational psychology, experiential and physical education, biology, quantum physics and environmental science.

In addition, I bring a wide range of life experiences: including: seven years of military service, process worker roles (mining) at Roxby Downs; and I have travelled extensively.

Experiential Education

I have both extensive experience and a passion for the development and evaluation of group-based programs for young people (including students, youth-at-risk and adolescents with offending backgrounds).

I have seven years experience in the development and evaluation of the Rock and Water program for children and young people with backgrounds of trauma or presenting with complex needs. I have completed 10 trips as a team leader for the Operation Flinders program, which is an intensive wilderness-adventure program for youth-at-risk and young offenders.

I developed a deep appreciation for the value and "power" of outdoor - adventure programming during my military career. For the last eight years I have been a clinical and organisational consultant, trainer and researcher for the Operation Flinders Foundation Clinical Advisory Committee.

Consultant, Researcher and Trainer

One of my perceived strengths is that I have combined significant hands-on and practical experience as a youth practitioner, with a Masters qualification in Clinical Psychology. I have worked at all levels of state government youth service provision within the areas of child protection, juvenile justice and alternative care. This has included the roles of mentor, youth worker, senior youth worker, alternative care supervisor, policy writer, program facilitator, consultant and psychologist with the South Australian Department of Families and Communities. I am currently a National Specialist Trainer for Headspace (Youth Mental Health Agency).

The training and consultancy I provide is therefore delivered with authenticity, integrity and with a practical or “grounded” headset. I have also had research roles with the University of South Australia, and have written and published widely in areas of:

• Wilderness-adventure programming
• Rock & Water for young people
• Identity development for young people in care
• Relationship development between adults and young people with complex needs
• Employee stress and vicarious trauma
• Program development for young people