Specialist Mental Health Support
HWSS exists to support mental health recovery through the NDIS
Meet The Team
HWSS is a family-led team with deep experience across disability, mental health, education, and advocacy. The people you meet early on remain involved over time, so relationships can develop without constant handovers or retelling your story.
Heidi
Heidi is an educator, creative practitioner, mental health advocate, and Pilates instructor whose work is grounded in a deeply interdisciplinary approach to wellbeing, inclusion, and personal growth. She holds a Bachelor of Arts with majors in Philosophy, History, and Visual Arts, a Master of Teaching (Secondary), and a Diploma of Creative Arts and Health. This academic foundation informs her commitment to integrating critical inquiry, creativity, movement, and mental health practice in ways that are both intellectually rigorous and embodied.
As a secondary educator, Heidi teaches philosophy, history, art and design, and future leadership, guiding students to think critically, engage ethically, and express themselves with confidence. Her pedagogical approach is underpinned by the belief that reflective, creative, and embodied practices are central to personal transformation, emotional literacy, and social change, particularly for individuals navigating complex identities and life experiences.
Heidi also works as an Educator with SANE Australia at The Dax Centre, where she facilitates engagement with exhibitions that examine the intersections between mental health and artistic expression. Through this role, she contributes to public discourse on mental health, challenging stigma while foregrounding the therapeutic, communicative, and reflective capacities of creative practice.
In addition, Heidi is a Co Founder of Health and Wellbeing Support Services, where she works as a Support Coordinator, Administrative Coordinator, and Staff Coordinator. In this role, she supports individuals to navigate the NDIS with clarity and confidence, while also overseeing organisational processes and workforce coordination. Her practice is grounded in person centred, ethical, and holistic models of care that prioritise dignity, autonomy, and quality of life.
Across all aspects of her professional practice, Heidi is dedicated to creating spaces that are intellectually, creatively, and physically sustaining, where individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered to flourish.
Virginia
Virginia is an Accredited Social Worker and experienced mental health clinician with over twenty years of professional practice across hospital, community, and specialist support settings. Her work is grounded in a deep commitment to ethical, trauma informed, and person centred care, supporting individuals through complex mental health and life challenges with skill, compassion, and integrity.
Virginia has extensive experience working in psychiatric hospital settings, where she has supported individuals with acute and enduring mental health needs. Alongside this, she has worked across women’s refuges, disability services, and community mental health, developing a strong understanding of the intersections between trauma, mental illness, disability, and social disadvantage. This breadth of experience informs her nuanced and holistic therapeutic practice.
As a therapist, Virginia provides evidence informed counselling and psychosocial support, tailoring her approach to the unique needs, strengths, and goals of each individual. She is particularly skilled in supporting people with complex presentations, histories of trauma, and those navigating significant transitions or periods of instability.
Virginia is also a Co Founder of Health and Wellbeing Support Services, where she works as both a Support Coordinator and Therapist. In this role, she supports participants to navigate the NDIS system while also delivering therapeutic support that promotes stability, empowerment, and long term wellbeing.
Across her practice, Virginia is known for creating safe, respectful, and supportive therapeutic spaces where individuals feel heard, validated, and supported to build resilience, autonomy, and meaningful change.
Joey
Joey is the Director and Founder of Health and Wellbeing Support Services, bringing over twenty years of experience across sales, leadership, and managerial roles into the disability and mental health sector. With a strong background in strategic planning, people management, and business development, Joey provides the operational and leadership foundation that supports the organisation’s ethical and person centred practice.
Throughout his career, Joey has led teams, managed complex operations, and built sustainable business structures across diverse industries. He now applies this extensive skill set to the NDIS space, driven by a genuine desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families accessing support.
As a Support Coordinator, Joey works closely with participants to ensure they are supported with clarity, respect, and practical outcomes. As Director, he oversees all aspects of the business, including strategy, operations, compliance, and service development, ensuring Health and Wellbeing Support Services operates with integrity, accountability, and a strong focus on quality care.
Joey’s leadership is characterised by transparency, responsiveness, and a commitment to continuous improvement. He is dedicated to building an organisation that values its participants, supports its staff, and delivers services that are empowering, reliable, and genuinely person centred.
Mike
I found my way back to support work because I truly love connecting with people and making a real difference. I know how easy it can be to feel lost in “the system,” and I’m passionate about making sure the people I support feel seen, valued, and understood — as unique individuals, not problems to be managed.
Hi, I’m Mike 👋
I found my way back to support work because I truly love connecting with people and making a real difference. I know how easy it can be to feel lost in “the system,” and I’m passionate about making sure the people I support feel seen, valued, and understood — as unique individuals, not problems to be managed.
I have extensive experience supporting people living with mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, agoraphobia, clinical depression, dual diagnosis, and complex psychosocial disability. My approach is person-centred, which simply means I take the time to listen, respect your story, and support you in a way that feels right for you. My goal is always to help you feel heard, empowered, and confident in your own life.
I’m values-driven, grounded, and easy-going by nature. I work comfortably with people from all walks of life and diverse backgrounds — different cultures, faiths, sexualities, and lived experiences are always welcomed and respected.
Alongside support work, I have a background in Social Work, Fitness and Personal Training, Wellness and Lifestyle Support, Counselling, and Life Coaching. Whether it’s practical help around the home, getting to appointments (I have a full driver’s licence), building daily living skills, accessing the community, or working on confidence and wellbeing — I’m here to roll up my sleeves and support you.
Outside of work, you’ll usually find me enjoying a good coffee, great conversation, music, fitness, travel, or sports.
Marg
Marg is a compassionate and experienced Mental Health Support Worker who comes to us with unwavering professionalism and a breadth of work and life experience. Having worked in the Mental Health and Disability sectors for the past 20 years and prior to that in education as an ESL Teacher for many years, she has an extensive skill set.
As a Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Worker she has an in-depth knowledge of the NDIS (with Support Coordination experience) and works alongside individuals to build capacity, strengthen independence and achieve goals that matter to them.
She is deeply committed to person-centred, trauma- informed, recovery-focused care that empowers individuals to focus on their well-being and live with dignity and confidence.
Embodying a passion for the well-being of her clients, she is passionate about creating safe, inclusive environments where people feel heard, respected and supported. In doing so, she endeavours to make a transformative impact in the lives of each and everyone of them.
Outside of work, Marg enjoys spending time with family, friends and puppy dog Evie, learning Portuguese, travelling, reading and cooking up a storm!
Caelan
Caelan is a compassionate and community-minded support worker who values inclusive, respectful, and people-focused environments. With a background in the creative arts and current studies in a Master of Architecture at the University of Melbourne. They bring creativity, empathy, and strong communication skills to their work. Caelan is passionate about supporting individuals to feel confident, connected, and empowered in their everyday lives, and approaches all support with patience, understanding, and a strong social awareness.
Paola
Paola is a compassionate and reliable Support Worker committed to delivering high-quality, person-centred care that promotes dignity, independence, and overall wellbeing.
She has experience supporting clients with personal care, daily living assistance, community access, social support, companionship, and structured routine development. Paola is calm, patient, and emotionally intelligent, allowing her to build strong, trusting relationships with the people she supports.
Professional, punctual, and adaptable to individual care plans, she takes pride in creating a safe, respectful, and positive environment where clients feel comfortable, valued, and empowered to maintain their independence and confidence.
Fernando
Fernando is a qualified Systems Engineer from Colombia, as well as a musician and arts teacher. For the past year, he has been working as a Support Worker and is grateful for the opportunity to build meaningful connections while supporting his clients.
He is passionate about music, especially playing the flute, and enjoys sharing his Colombian culture with others. Fernando also values staying active and has a strong interest in technology, bringing creativity, energy, and diverse skills to his support work.
Julie
Julie brings over 40 years of experience in health and wellbeing, alongside her qualifications as a Naturopath and Master of Clinical Science in Lifestyle Medicine (Exercise, Nutrition, and Stress Management).
Julie enjoys supporting people through creativity and gentle lifestyle practices.
Her sessions can include visual art – drawing, colouring, painting and music - guitar, ukulele, singing. She often encourages walking in nature and relaxation activities.
Julie offers a warm, supportive space where individuals build confidence, express themselves, and take positive steps toward their personal health and wellness goals.
Anita
Anita is a compassionate and dedicated support worker with a strong interest in psychosocial recovery and supporting participants to engage meaningfully within their community. She is passionate about providing practical assistance while creating a positive, uplifting environment through laughter and engaging activities.
Anita takes pride in helping clients build confidence, maintain independence with daily tasks, and feel genuinely supported in their goals.
Outside of work, Anita enjoys fitness, Pilates, and spending time within her positive and empowering circle.
Linda
Linda originally graduated as a psychologist in Colombia and has been working as a Support Worker in Melbourne for the past two years. She is passionate about supporting people and values building safe, respectful, and meaningful connections.
Linda brings a warm, calm, and caring approach to her role. She is a patient and attentive listener who adapts her support style to suit each individual, whether that involves structured routines, gentle encouragement, or shared activities. Her goal is to create a supportive environment where people feel understood, empowered, and confident in working towards their personal goals.
Outside of work, Linda enjoys staying active through volleyball, soccer, and skating. She also loves music, dancing, cooking healthy meals, and creative activities, bringing positive energy and balance to both her life and her work.
Sergen
Sergen has over two years of experience in disability support and mental health in Australia, alongside international clinical and community experience. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and applies behavioural and cognitive-based approaches, including Positive Behaviour Support and Cognitive Behavioural techniques. Sergen takes an evidence-based, person-centred approach, supporting emotional regulation, positive behavioural development, and quality of life. Outside of work, he enjoys swimming, tennis, sailing, chess, travelling, and exploring different cultures.
Kadir
Kadir is a support worker with experience assisting participants with mental health needs, daily living tasks, and community access. He provides person-centred care, helping with routines, appointments, medication prompts, and building independence, while maintaining a calm, respectful, and consistent approach. Kadir holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and plans to study Psychology to deepen his understanding of people and wellbeing. Outside of work, he enjoys physical activity, including karate, surfing, and gym training, as well as camping, hiking, photography, chess, and cooking.
Mason
Mason is currently studying Screen and Media and brings over five years of experience supporting individuals with mental health challenges and physical or psychosocial disabilities. He approaches support work with empathy and a strong commitment to person-centred care, creating safe and respectful environments. Mason helps participants engage meaningfully in daily life through practical assistance, community access, and emotional support. His creative background informs a flexible, strengths-based approach, connecting with people through shared interests while remaining grounded and reliable. Outside of work and study, he enjoys staying active, reading, and spending time with animals and friends.
Adriana
Adriana is a qualified psychologist with over 12 years of experience supporting vulnerable communities in Colombia and three years as a Mental Health Support Worker in Melbourne under the NDIS. She is proactive, compassionate, and dependable, with a strong grounding in trauma-informed practice and cultural responsiveness. Adriana supports clients with complex mental health needs, promoting dignity, recovery, and meaningful participation in daily life. She is currently completing a Diploma of Community Services, specialising in Case Management and Child, Youth, and Family Welfare.
Sally
Sally is a dedicated professional with over 20 years of experience in childcare and hospitality. An experienced team manager and NDIS Carers Worker, she is passionate about supporting individuals to live meaningful and independent lives. Sally is known for her warm, approachable nature and strong people skills. Outside of work, she enjoys sport, particularly golf and tennis, and loves spending time at the beach.
Vanessa
Vanessa has nearly 20 years’ experience supporting people in the disability and mental health community. She is passionate about helping individuals feel valued, heard, and supported, while promoting independence and social inclusion. She has worked with people of all ages and diverse needs, including autism, acquired brain injury, quadriplegia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, dementia, and aged care. Vanessa is trained in first aid, medication support, manual handling, catheter care, PEG feeding, and C-PAP/BI-PAP use, ensuring safe and high-quality care. Known for her compassion, patience, and strong listening skills, Vanessa brings warmth, professionalism, and positivity to every support relationship.
HOW WE WORK
Five principles of wellbeing
HWSS bases its approach on five principles that research identifies as central to mental health and wellbeing. These principles guide how we structure sessions, what we focus on in support, and what we encourage people to develop in their own lives.
Shared Social Groups and Wellbeing Retreats
Experience the benefit of connecting with others who truly understand your journey. From local Melbourne activities to restorative nature getaways, our group programs and retreats provide a safe, expert-led space to build friendships, try new things, and strengthen your independence.
Let's Start a Conversation
If you’re exploring mental health supports under the NDIS, we’re happy to talk things through and see whether HWSS is the right fit.