Meet the CORE DBT Skills Group facilitators

Accredited Mental Health Social Worker Co-Facilitator & Clinical Lead Lisa brings over a decade of experience in public mental health to her role, where she is dedicated to providing essential mental health support. Specialising in emotion dysregulation and rejection-based trauma, Lisa is passionate about creating safe, inclusive spaces for all, especially within the LGBTQIA+ community. She believes that effective therapy must consider the social context of each person's life, including through programs like this DBT program, to empower individuals to challenge outdated patterns. Lisa is committed to ensuring that the skills learned in group sessions are not just concepts in a book but practical tools that can transform daily life. She emphasises the importance of actionable strategies that clients can integrate into their everyday routines. In her spare time, Lisa enjoys quality moments with her adult children and friends.

Consumer Peer Support Clinician and Lived Experience Lead, Jess, brings a vital perspective to the DBT program team: the view from the inside. As a peer support clinician, Jess utilises her own lived experience of mental health recovery to walk alongside participants, offering empathy and true understanding. In her role, she bridges the gap between clinical approaches and human connection, transforming the DBT program into a place where individuals feel valued. Jess works diligently to reduce the shame often associated with mental health diagnoses, illustrating that recovery is not only possible—it’s actively happening. Her presence ensures our group remains a non-judgmental, validation-focused space for mental health support. In her spare time, you'll likely find Jess running after her energetic two-year-old son, enjoying quality time with friends and family, or playing cricket.

Accredited Mental Health Social Worker Co-Facilitator & Clinical Lead, Emma is a dedicated mental health clinician passionate about helping individuals transition from merely "surviving" to truly "thriving." With extensive experience in providing mental health support, particularly in areas such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and emotional dysregulation, Emma also specialises in guiding clients through a DBT program. Her holistic approach goes beyond just discussing issues; she emphasises equipping clients with practical strategies to overcome obstacles and foster a meaningful life. Known for her down-to-earth style, Emma guides individuals through the challenging "messy middle" of recovery. In her spare time, you’ll likely find Emma enjoying time with her two dogs, spending quality moments with her nephews, or cheering for her team at the footy.