HandinHand Mental Health & Disability

Aaron Parry is an experienced Behaviour Support Practitioner with a strong foundation in trauma-informed care and a commitment to evidence-based, person-centred practice. Currently completing his Master of Professional Psychology at Griffith University, Aaron brings a multi-disciplinary background that includes a Bachelor of Laws and extensive hands-on experience across disability, mental health, and community sectors.

Aaron has supported NDIS participants of all ages with complex behavioural needs, specialising in conducting Functional Behaviour Assessments (FBAs), developing Positive Behaviour Support Plans (PBSPs), and working collaboratively with families, carers, and allied health professionals. He is dedicated to improving quality of life and reducing restrictive practices through strengths-based, holistic interventions.

Providing services across North Brisbane, Morayfield, Caboolture and surrounding Areas.

Book Now with Aishwarya

Aishwarya is a compassionate and client-focused Social Worker with a Master of Social Work (Medical and Psychiatry) and a focus on Mental Health.  With more than four years of experience across mental health, family support, and community services, Aishwarya brings a holistic and trauma-informed approach to supporting individuals and families through complex psychosocial challenges. 

Her experience spans clinical, educational, and community settings, including roles as a Mental Health Social Worker and a Child and Family Social Worker. 

Aishwarya has conducted individual and group counselling, crisis intervention, and case management for people experiencing mental illness, family conflict, and social disadvantage. She is skilled in psychotherapy, suicide prevention, and behavioural support, ensuring that every client receives empathetic, evidence-based care. 

Aishwarya’s practice is grounded in advocacy, cultural competence, and empowerment, helping clients strengthen their emotional resilience and improve their overall well-being. Her earlier experience in customer relations and operations further developed her analytical thinking, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities, skills she now applies to delivering high-quality, ethical, and person-centred social work support. 

An active member of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), Aishwarya is dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and building inclusive, supportive communities across Australia. 

Williams Landing (VIC) and surrounds 

Home, school, community and via telehealth.  

Speaks three other languages Telugu, Kannada and Hindi.  

Alison is a Behaviour Support Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in education, counselling, and therapeutic support. With a background in special education and early intervention, she creates practical, strengths-based behaviour support plans that centre the needs of neurodivergent children and their families.

Alison holds a Bachelor of Early Childhood and Primary Teaching and is completing a Diploma of Counselling. A registered PBS practitioner and NDIS-screened worker, she integrates therapeutic play, mindfulness, and inclusive strategies into her work.

Alison supports participants through family-centred services, early intervention, and capacity building. Her approach is collaborative, trauma-informed, and focused on empowering the child’s entire support network.

Bridget is an experienced Behaviour Support Practitioner with a diverse background in child education, intensive family therapy, and positive behaviour support. Bridget’s therapeutic approach focuses on recognising individuals are experts of their own experiences. Bridget has both personal and professional experience, providing supports for children and adults with specific differences that often lead to misunderstandings or risk of harm. Bridget’s lived experience has fuelled her passion for helping families and individuals develop self-advocacy skills and achieve functional, skill-based goals for an improved quality of life. Bridget holds multiple qualifications in early childhood education, community services, psychology, autism studies, and behaviour analysis.

Carris is a dedicated Behaviour Support Practitioner with a rich background in social work, mental health, and disability support. With over a decade of experience across hospital, government, and community settings, Carris brings a deeply compassionate and informed approach to supporting individuals and families navigating complex behavioural and developmental needs.

Carris holds a Master of Social Work and a Bachelor of Human Services from La Trobe University, and has completed extensive professional development in trauma-informed care, positive behaviour support, mental health, and therapeutic family support.

Her professional focus is on working with children and families, particularly those with multiple diagnoses and high-support needs. Carris takes a holistic and family-centred approach to behaviour support, believing strongly in the power of empowering parents and caregivers to be active agents in their child's development and wellbeing. Her work prioritises building capable environments and reducing the use of restrictive practices through trauma-informed, strengths-based strategies.

Book Now with Christine

Christine Steentjes is a highly experienced and compassionate General Psychologist with over two decades of experience supporting individuals and families across the lifespan. She provides psychological services via telehealth to clients Australia-wide, ensuring accessible, flexible, and high-quality care for people in both metropolitan and regional areas. 

With a career spanning private practice, rehabilitation, and community mental health, Christine delivers evidence-based psychological support under both Medicare and NDIS frameworks. Her approach integrates person-centred, trauma-informed, and strengths-based practices to help individuals connect with their inner resources and achieve meaningful change. 

Christine’s clinical expertise includes supporting clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, grief, relationship challenges, and adjustment issues. She works collaboratively with individuals to enhance emotional regulation, daily functioning, and quality of life. 

Christine offers individual therapy and psychological assessments combining compassion with evidence-based strategies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), and trauma-focused interventions. 

Christine remains dedicated to empowering clients to build self-awareness, resilience, and lasting wellbeing, wherever they are through the accessibility of telehealth. 

Advanced Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner 

Dana Breadsell is a highly experienced Psychologist and Advanced Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner, endorsed in Health Psychology and registered with AHPRA. With a strong foundation in clinical psychology and behavioural science, Dana specialises in delivering person-centred, evidence-based Behaviour Support to individuals across the lifespan. 

Working with people aged 6 to 76 years, Dana provides Positive Behaviour Support through comprehensive functional behaviour assessments, the development and implementation of Behaviour Support Plans, and collaborative capacity-building with families, carers, and multidisciplinary teams. Her approach emphasises dignity, empowerment, and sustainable outcomes supporting individuals with autism, intellectual disability, acquired brain injury, and rare genetic conditions to thrive in their homes, schools, and communities. 

Dana’s experience extends to psychological assessment and intervention under NDIS and Medicare frameworks, psychometric testing, and the design of behaviour strategies that reduce restrictive practices. She is skilled in telehealth delivery and experienced in navigating NDIS processes, including funding submissions and risk assessments. 

A Board-Certified STAP Supervisor, Dana is also passionate about mentoring emerging practitioners and contributing to the professional growth of the Behaviour Support community. 

Providing service across the southern and mid Sunshine Coast Areas. 

Della is an experienced Proficient Behaviour Support Practitioner with a focus on supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities, including autism, PTSD, and physical disabilities. With expertise in complex mental health and disability supports.
With skills and experience in conducting Functional Behaviour Assessments, creating personalised Comprehensive Behaviour Support Plans, identification of restrictive practices and including gradual reduction protocols using evidence-based interventions.
In addition, she brings a wealth of experience is in crisis management, staff training and development, risk assessments, and collaborating with families, carers, and multidisciplinary teams to ensure holistic, client-centred care and supports.

Diane is a dedicated Behaviour Support Practitioner, holding both a Bachelor's Degree and a Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science. With a wealth of experience as a case manager, she has worked extensively with vulnerable populations, developing a deep understanding of the complexities involved in managing challenging behaviours. Diane's expertise enables her to provide tailored support to participants, their families or caregivers, and a broad range of stakeholders. Her holistic approach ensures that the needs of everyone involved are addressed, fostering positive outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for those she serves.
Quals: BPsychSc., GradDip (Psych)

Dr Fiona Davis brings over 30 years of clinical expertise within the disability and mental health sectors, offering high-level professional supervision to practitioners across a broad range of disciplines. With a deep commitment to human rights and ethical, person-centred practice, Fiona supports supervisees to critically reflect, build confidence, and strengthen their clinical reasoning in complex practice contexts.

Her specialist knowledge spans Positive Behaviour Support, Dual Diagnosis (Mental Health/Intellectual Disability and Dual Diagnosis/Acquired Brain Injury/Forensic Disability), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cognitive Impairment, and other neurological and developmental conditions. Fiona is particularly skilled in supporting practitioners who work with people experiencing multiple and complex support needs.

Having worked in diverse roles nationally, Fiona draws on her extensive experience to guide professionals in applying theory to practice, promoting accountability, and embedding evidence-informed approaches. A strong advocate for the rights of vulnerable individuals, her supervision style is grounded in clarity, compassion, and professional integrity. Fiona’s core message is “translation to practice for the benefit of the person”—ensuring all support remains meaningful and person-driven.

Iris is one of our Behaviour Support Practitioners. She demonstrates unwavering dedication in providing invaluable support to individuals across all age groups – adults, teenagers, and children. Driven by a genuine passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Iris embodies empathy, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to fostering holistic well-being. Her multifaceted skill set, and empathetic approach make her an invaluable asset, where she continues to inspire positive transformation and empower individuals on their journey toward fulfillment and resilience.

Languages: English, Cantonese, & Mandarin.

Jade is an experienced and passionate Behaviour Support Practitioner with over a decade in the community services sector, specialising in mental health, disability, and forensic settings. With a Master of Social Work from Federation University and extensive clinical leadership experience, Jade brings a person-centred and trauma-informed approach to behaviour support.

Jade has supported multidisciplinary teams, developed and implements Behaviour Support Plans, ensures compliance with NDIS and legislative frameworks.
She has previously held leadership roles with Australian Health Professionals, the Department of Justice, and Ermha365, where she managed complex caseloads and coordinated service delivery for individuals with high and complex needs.

Jade is committed to reducing stigma, empowering participants, and fostering inclusive, evidence-based practice. Her expertise includes restrictive practice reporting, stakeholder collaboration, and crisis response, underpinned by qualifications in ASSIST, Trauma-Informed Practice, and Positive Behaviour Support planning.

Proving services across Fortitude Valley, Herston, New Farm and surrounding areas.

Jena is an Advanced Behaviour Support Practitioner with over a decade of experience in child protection, disability, and behavioural therapy across Australia and internationally. She holds a Master of Social Work (QUT) and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and is also a Registered Behaviour Technician with a strong foundation in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA).

Jena specialises in delivering evidence-informed behaviour support plans, conducting functional behavioural assessments, strategy implementation and interventions with clients, families and supports. Her practice is grounded in person-centred, trauma-informed principles that prioritise dignity, inclusion, and cultural safety.

Jena’s work reflects deep values of social justice, family support, and collaboration. She is committed to reducing restrictive practices and improving the overall wellbeing and quality of life for people with disabilities and complex needs.

Jodie is a Positive Behaviour Support practitioner with qualifications and extensive experience in Therapeutic Child Play therapy.

Specialising in Assessment & Recommendation Reports for NDIS behaviour support funding applications.

Jordan Curtis is an experienced Behaviour Support Practitioner with a Bachelor of Social Work from Queensland University of Technology. She brings extensive experience working across disability, mental health, and child safety sectors, supporting individuals with complex behavioural and psychosocial needs. 

Over the past several years, Jordan has delivered high-quality behaviour support and therapeutic services to clients of all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults with intellectual disability, autism, ADHD, ODD, PTSD, and other complex diagnoses. Her expertise includes the development and implementation of Functional Behaviour Assessments (FBAs), Behaviour Support Plans (BSPs), Restrictive Practice (RRP) protocols, and Risk Management Plans in line with NDIS and legislative standards. 

Jordan’s earlier work within the Department of Child Safety and Youth Justice Service has strengthened her skills in risk management, trauma-informed care, and stakeholder collaboration. This background informs her compassionate, evidence-based approach to supporting clients and their families to achieve meaningful, positive change. 

Based on the Sunshine Coast, Jordan is passionate about continuing to deliver person-centred, trauma-informed behaviour support under the NDIS framework, with a focus on improving quality of life and community participation for individuals with disability. 

Service areas; Sunshine Coast, Gympie and surrounding areas. 

Josh is a Positive Behaviour Support practitioner, with a background in behavioural science. Josh specializes in crafting comprehensive, individualized, and person-centered interventions. He firmly believes in a strength-based approach, harnessing clients' inherent capabilities while delivering targeted support to facilitate growth and development in areas requiring improvement.

Kallen is a committed Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) Practitioner with a background in social work and community services, offering over nine years of experience in supporting individuals with complex needs, including those with mental health challenges and forensic orders.

Recently achieving proficiency under the NDIS capability framework, Kallen is dedicated to providing evidence-based, person-centered support to individuals, helping them navigate challenges and achieve meaningful outcomes.

As a PBS Practitioner, Kallen specialises in working closely with individuals to develop tailored Behaviour Support Plans and Behaviour Risk Assessments, as well as creating personalised interventions that prioritise well-being and long-term success. Kallen’s work also includes supporting individuals under forensic orders, ensuring that interventions are aligned with legal requirements, while focusing on rehabilitation and positive behavioural change.

Collaborating with families, multidisciplinary teams, and senior practitioners, Kallen strives to create an environment where individuals are empowered and supported holistically.

Karen is a dedicated Behaviour Support Practitioner with extensive experience working across disability, youth justice, and community services. Karen has developed and implemented comprehensive Positive Behaviour Support Plans for individuals with complex needs, including those with significant trauma histories, schizophrenia, acquired brain injuries, and behaviours of concern.
Karen is skilled in conducting Functional Behaviour Assessments (FBA), monitoring restrictive practices, and designing strategies that promote independence, capacity building, and quality of life. She has a proven ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, families, and support networks to ensure consistent and person-centred care.
With a career spanning more than two decades in frontline and leadership roles, Karen brings resilience, integrity, and a trauma-informed approach to every interaction. She is passionate about reducing restrictive practices, empowering individuals, and fostering safe, supportive environments where clients and teams can thrive.

Providing services across Coff Harbour, Salisbury (Brisbane South) surrounding areas.

Michael Gibson is a highly experienced Behaviour Support Practitioner with a strong foundation in behavioural science, psychology, and counselling.

With over a decade of experience working across diverse settings including disability services, child protection, family intervention, and community mental health Michael brings a trauma-informed, person-centred, and culturally responsive approach to his practice.

Michael holds a Bachelor of Behavioural Science from the University of Queensland and a Bachelor of Behavioural Studies (Psychology) from Swinburne University of Technology. He has also completed coursework for a Master’s in Counselling and Psychotherapy, further enhancing his clinical knowledge and therapeutic skills.

Throughout his career, Michael has supported children, adolescents, adults, and families presenting with complex behavioural challenges, intellectual and developmental disabilities (including ASD, ADHD, SPD, ODD), mental health conditions, trauma and domestic violence. He is skilled in conducting functional behaviour assessments, developing comprehensive Positive Behaviour Support Plans, and delivering tailored therapeutic interventions focused on emotional regulation, engagement, and skill development.

Michael is deeply committed to safeguarding the rights and dignity of individuals, reducing restrictive practices, and working collaboratively with key stakeholders such as Child Safety, the Department of Education, Queensland Police Service, allied health professionals, and community agencies.

Michael is known for his calm presence, empathetic nature, and strong communication skills, making him a trusted and effective practitioner in the Behaviour Support field.

Providing Services throughout Ipswich and surrounds.

Mikalie is a compassionate and dedicated Behaviour Support Practitioner Coordinator with a strong background in delivering person-centred, evidence-based Positive Behaviour Support under the NDIS. With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science from the University of Canberra, she brings both academic expertise and hands-on experience to her role.

Mikalie has worked across a range of settings, including early intervention services, private mental health organisations, and multidisciplinary teams. She has extensive experience conducting functional behaviour assessments, developing and implementing Positive Behaviour Support Plans (PBSPs), and training stakeholders to support behaviour change strategies. Her practice is grounded in trauma-informed care, and she is deeply committed to upholding human rights and dignity for all clients.

Olivia is an experienced and compassionate Behaviour Support Practitioner who is dedicated to helping individuals reach their full potential and live more meaningful, fulfilling lives. With a strong foundation in Positive Behaviour Support, Olivia brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to develop individualised, evidence-based plans that focus on enhancing quality of life and achieving personal goals.

Olivia holds a Bachelor of Business and a Bachelor of Behavioural Science, backed by years of hands-on experience working with children, teens, and adults. She specialises in understanding the unique challenges and strengths of each individual, tailoring her support to meet their specific needs. Whether conducting functional behaviour assessments or implementing Positive Behaviour Support Plans, Olivia’s approach is always collaborative, person-centred, and grounded in empathy and respect.

Skilled in helping individuals navigate complex behavioural challenges, Olivia addresses underlying needs and builds empowering strategies for both clients and their support networks. Passionate about reducing restrictive practices and promoting inclusion, she ensures every client feels heard, valued, and supported throughout their journey.

Olivia takes a hands-on approach to foster genuine connections with her clients, their families, and the broader healthcare teams, ensuring a holistic and supportive experience.

Paula Higgins is an experienced Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) Practitioner based on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. With extensive experience in behaviour support, trauma-informed care, counselling, and education, Paula brings a rich multidisciplinary background to her practice. Paula holds Degrees in Social Science (Psychology) and a Bachelor of Art and Design.

Paula provides specialist support to individuals facing complex behavioural challenges, particularly those affected by trauma. Her expertise includes conducting comprehensive functional behaviour assessments, developing and implementing individualised behaviour support plans, and ensuring ethical use of regulated restrictive practices. Paula collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams and families, ensuring holistic and person-centred outcomes.

Paula’s work history spans family counselling, domestic violence intervention, and psycho-educational programs, including Circle of Security, Post Separation Parenting, and Men’s Behaviour Change programs. She has also had a wealth of experienced in advocacy, group facilitation, and staff coaching within court and community settings.

Paula has completed extensive professional development in traumainformed care, including training through Blue Knot, DV-alert, suicide prevention, and cultural awareness programs for working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Her work is defined by a warm, empathetic, and collaborative approach, underpinned by strong interpersonal skills and a deep commitment to client safety and wellbeing.

Ria is a dedicated and experienced Behaviour Support Practitioner based in Albany, Western Australia. She holds a Master’s degree in Professional Psychology, further strengthening her commitment to evidence-based, person-centred support.

Ria has worked with clients from various backgrounds across the lifespan, supporting individuals with ASD, ADHD, acquired brain injury, intellectual disability, dementia, schizophrenia, and other psychosocial challenges. She is passionate about promoting independence, helping her clients live their best lives, and empowering families and care teams with the tools they need to create positive, lasting change.

Outside of her professional commitments, Ria finds creative outlet in playing guitar, singing, and painting. She also values spending quality time with her loved ones as an important source of balance and fulfilment.

Services available in-person across Albany and surrounding areas, as well as via Telehealth.

Languages spoken: English and Tagalog

Sarah is an experienced Social Worker with expertise in family support, addiction, and complex mental health. Sarah began her career as a youth worker before pursuing vocational and university studies to enhance her skills. Sarah is a trained facilitator of evidence-based programs such as Circle of Security, Triple P, 1,2,3 Magic, and Bringing Up Great Kids. Sarah is an accredited trainer and delivers customised training to individuals, groups, and organisations. Sarah has a genuine interest in listening to peoples stories and firmly believes everyone has something to teach each other. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, exploring new cultures, and spending time with her husband and their two dogs, Romeo and Zeus.

Book Now with Savani

Savani is a compassionate and skilled Behaviour Support Practitioner and Provisional Psychologist with a strong background in supporting individuals with disabilities across all age groups, from early childhood to older adults. With a focus on reducing behaviours of concern, Savani employs evidence-based approaches to create positive outcomes that enhance clients' quality of life.

Expertise in conducting comprehensive psychological, behavioral, functional, and risk assessments to identify the root causes of challenging behaviors.
Skilled in developing and implementing positive behavior support plans tailored to each client’s needs, in collaboration with families, carers, and multidisciplinary teams.
Proficient in providing coaching, training, and support to stakeholders to ensure successful implementation of strategies and interventions.
Strong commitment to ethical, legislative, and professional standards, ensuring all practices adhere to relevant guidelines.
Holds NDIS Behaviour Support Practitioner registration and provisional registration with AHPRA in psychology.

Savani combines professional expertise with a caring, person-centered approach to empower individuals and their support systems, fostering meaningful change and improved well-being.

Location: Springvale, Dandenong, and Surrounding Areas.

Shanelle is a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional with a strong focus on behaviour support. Holding a Bachelor of Psychological Science and a Master of Mental Health from Griffith University, she brings both academic excellence and practical experience to her work in the disability and mental health sectors.

Shanelle has worked as a Support Facilitator, where she provides trauma-informed care to young people in residential settings. Her approach is grounded in empathy, consistency, and a deep understanding of the impacts of childhood trauma. She has a proven ability to manage crisis situations, de-escalate behaviours of concern, and support individuals in achieving positive behavioural change.

Her experience includes guidance counselling, emotional support, life skills coaching, and close collaboration with child safety services. She is known for her ability to build meaningful relationships, maintain professional boundaries, and advocate effectively for the needs and rights of her clients.

Shanelle’s professional strengths include active listening, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and a strong commitment to continuous learning. She is currently preparing for the GAMSAT to further deepen her understanding of behavioural science and the role of psychopharmacology in behaviour management.

Passionate about creating safer, more supportive environments for vulnerable individuals, Shanelle is driven by a desire to make a lasting, positive impact through evidence-based behaviour support.

Providing Services throughout Maroochydore, Caloundra, Kawana and surrounding areas.

Book Now with Sheralee

Sheralee is a Psychologist with extensive experience supporting individuals across the lifespan, including children, teens, and adults. She is passionate about helping neurodiverse individuals achieve their goals, strengthen relationships, and improve their overall mental health and wellbeing.

Sheralee provides assessment and therapeutic support for a wide range of presentations, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and behavioural concerns. She is trained in administering the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2) and incorporates evidence-based assessment and intervention practices.

Sheralee also offers parenting support and works closely with schools, families, and professionals to ensure a holistic approach to care. Her gentle and collaborative style helps to build trust, empower clients, and foster meaningful change.

Sheralee delivers services in the home, school, community, via telehealth, and at the Maroochydore centre.

Availability across Tanawha, Buderim, Maroochydore, Mooloolaba, Glenview, and surrounding areas.

Tamara is an experienced educator and allied health professional with over five years of experience working in the Inclusive Education Unit, where she has supported diverse learners with varying needs. With a strong background in psychology, business, and education, Tamara has worked for five years in allied health services, enhancing her expertise in supporting individuals with disabilities. Most recently, she served as a Positive Behavioural Support Practitioner, applying evidence-based strategies to improve behavioural outcomes and enhance the quality of life for individuals in care.

Tamara is deeply committed to inclusive education and allied health services, with a focus on fostering positive, meaningful change. Her professional philosophy in Positive Behaviour Support is grounded in a holistic, person-centered approach, recognising the interconnectedness of an individual’s environment, relationships, and personal strengths. She believes in empowering individuals by creating supportive, inclusive environments that promote skill development and enhance overall well-being, aiming to help individuals thrive in both immediate and broader community contexts.

Driven by a passion for making a meaningful impact, Tamara began her career in teaching after completing degrees in psychology, business, and education. Her journey began in a high school special education unit, where she identified gaps in resources and staff training. Motivated to improve the overall educational experience, she sought to support students and staff in recognising strengths and developing the skills necessary to navigate challenges in the wider world.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Tamara holds a second-degree black belt in Aikido and a black belt in Shinto Muso Ryu. She has also competed in boxing, powerlifting, and bodybuilding events, showcasing her commitment to discipline and personal growth.

Tamara’s qualifications include a Bachelor's Degree in Psychological Science, a Bachelor’s Degree in Business with a Major in Marketing, and a Graduate Diploma in Teaching. Her diverse background and passion for supporting individuals with diverse needs make them a dedicated professional committed to enhancing the lives of others.

Vanessa McKeiver, CEO of HandinHand Mental Health and Disability, is a compassionate leader whose dedication to fostering inclusivity and empowerment drives the organisation's mission. With qualifications including a Bachelor of Behavioural Science (BBSci), a Master of Social Work (MSW) and a DipBM, Vanessa brings many year experience in both government and community-based services. A skilled EMDR therapist and DBT facilitator, she has extensive experience supporting complex clients with mental health diagnoses and disabilities. Vanessa is deeply committed to ensuring optimal client outcomes, focusing on individualized care plans that prioritise each person’s unique strengths and goals. Her leadership is rooted in a personal approach—listening to stories, building trust, and creating a space where everyone is seen, heard, and celebrated. Under her guidance, HandinHand has become a beacon of care, having previously been awarded honours for Excellence in Business.

Book Now with Vera

Vera is a qualified and compassionate Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from the University of Queensland and active membership in the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). With a strong foundation in legal studies and frontline experience with government and statutory agencies such as, the Department of Housing, child protection, domestic violence intervention, mental health, and youth work. Vera brings depth, professionalism, and empathy to every aspect of her practice.

Working as a Social Worker at Hand in Hand Mental Health and Disability, Vera designs and delivers person-centred services, specialising in trauma-informed interventions. She collaborates across multidisciplinary teams to develop holistic care plans that uphold individual rights and promote dignity, inclusion, and empowerment.

Vera’s earlier work as a Child Safety Officer for the Department of Children, Youth Justice and Multicultural Affairs involved comprehensive case management, risk assessments, and legal compliance under the Child Protection Act 1999. Her skills in crisis intervention, stakeholder collaboration, and court reporting are complemented by deep experience in advocacy, community engagement, and therapeutic group facilitation.

She is highly proficient in building trusting relationships with individuals, families, carers, and professionals, applying a strengths-based and culturally responsive approach. Vera excels in managing complex cases and coordinating support across diverse service systems.
Vera’s unwavering commitment to ethical social work practice, reflective supervision, and continual professional development ensures her practice is evidence-informed, values-driven, and responsive to the unique needs of those she supports.