My Family

My family consists of 2 daughters and 2 sons, 3 adult grandchildren (with families of their own) and 5 younger grandchildren (whom I see frequently) plus 2 beautiful dogs who keep me company at home.

My Professional Background

I qualified as a Social Worker at the University of Melbourne, later obtaining my MSW through La Trobe University.  My interest in education, together with part time employment with a number of Universities has spanned many years and continues to the present.

My primary experiences have been in the field of health and education. In health I spent 21 years managing the Social work Department at Box Hill Hospital, and working primarily in Oncology, the Emergency Dept. and ICU with people suffering from psychiatric illnesses, and major trauma; later followed by 10 years in palliative care – an experience in which I felt most privileged to share.

During these years I had many personal experiences of loss which changed the direction of my life.  Together with my experiences in health, plus 2 years establishing the Road Trauma Support Team, I developed a passionate interest in trauma, disability, loss and grief.  It is my hope that the knowledge and experiences I have gained can continue to assist in meeting the needs of our wonderful Thursday Girls and their families, as they help and support each other.

I have worked as a professional counsellor for over nineteen years, providing therapeutic support to children, adults, and families with various emotional, psychological and social challenges.

Long term experience in working within the areas of grief, loss and trauma have allowed me to gain a greater understanding of the many layers and complexities of grief. My approach promotes and embraces a recognition of existing strengths within each individual, in addition to cultivating additional resources. Enhancing capacity for reflection and self-awareness can help us better understand and navigate present and future challenges and can empower feelings of hope.

I firmly believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. Within a therapeutic group setting, the value of human connection amongst the group is paramount when witnessing and honouring the experience of others.  I continue to learn and grow from each person that allows me to journey with them and witness their experience of challenge. I feel privileged to support members of the Thursday Girls through their journeys of uncertainty and I aim to facilitate an environment of compassionate support and connectedness.

I am excited by the opportunity to work with the Partner Group and the Thursday Girls Team.

I have a diverse range of skills and experience over a long career in supporting families, young people and children. My qualifications are in Nursing, trauma, grief & loss and counselling.

I have recent experience in group facilitation and currently support parent/carers of children with a disability in another role that sits alongside of Thursday Girls partners' support group facilitation. The purpose of both peer support programs is to create supportive connections, share information and resources, along with individual support for group members. I draw on my past experiences and learnings to add depth to the support I offer the Partners Group members.

And last but by no means least, I'm a mum of two wonderful neurodiverse, adult children. They are a source of pride and joy for me, and I celebrate all that they are and will become. I feel privileged to be their mum.

I look forward to supporting the Thursday Girls Partners.