Meet The Team

Kimberley’s commitment to assisting individuals with psychosocial disabilities and mental health concerns in her community is highly commendable. Authenticity, person-centeredness, and professionalism are pivotal aspects of the care that Sunflower aims to offer individuals in need. To ensure that participants receive exceptional care, Sunflower provides its staff with mental health training and trauma-informed resources. Kim’s educational background includes a Cert III in Business Leadership, a Cert IV in Youth Work & a Bachelor of Social Sciences, with a major in Children and Communities. Kimberley is trained in Therapeutic Crisis Intervention and continues to upskill her education in order to empower and teach her fellow colleagues.

Max was born and bred in Newcastle and holds a Bachelor of Primary School Teaching and Arts from Newcastle Uni. Max made the transition over to Disability after he enjoyed working with Participants within the Juvenile Justice space. Max has experience in brand and business development as he informally helped set up Sunflower Services in its early years. Max is a friendly, down-to-earth local who cares about the well-being of others and ensuring Participants are happy with their quality of service. Max enjoys developing positive relationships with other Service Providers and is always up for a coffee and a chat.

Maggie understands the importance of building strong relationships based on trust, respect, and empathy. With her extensive experience in mental health support work and her academic expertise, Maggie is well-equipped to provide high-quality support and services to Participants with diverse needs. Her passion for connecting with people, coupled with her strong clinical skills, allows her to create individualised care plans that promote positive outcomes and empower Participants to achieve their goals. As an NDIS Team Leader, Maggie is committed to providing exceptional care and support to each Participant she works with, and she is dedicated to ongoing learning and professional development to enhance her skills and knowledge.

Kayla is a valuable asset to the Sunflower team, serving as their primary liaison with clients and colleagues alike. With her exceptional organisational skills and positive attitude, Kayla ensures that operations run smoothly on a daily basis. Having worked as a Mental Health and Disability Support worker for over three years, Kayla brings a wealth of experience to her role in the office. In addition, she holds a Cert III in Individual Support and a Cert IV in Disability Management, allowing her to provide valuable insights into the complex needs of Sunflower’s clients. Overall, Kayla’s professionalism and dedication to her work make her an essential member of the Sunflower team.

Tessa is a seasoned mental health worker with a Bachelor of Social Science from Newcastle University. She has extensive experience in trauma-informed practice, having previously managed youth houses under DCJ contracts. As a strong advocate for her NDIS participants, Tessa prioritizes their needs, consistently placing them at the forefront of her work. Tessa’s calming and strength-based approach enables her to appropriately manage challenging behaviors while prioritizing her clients’ well-being. Her skills in these areas make her an asset to any team or program.

As a result of her lived experience with mental health, she has developed a strong desire to support others in gaining greater control over their own mental well-being. Rhi is dedicated to expanding her knowledge and understanding of mental health and disability, having completed a range of qualifications including Mental Health First Aid, Cert4 in Disability, and a Diploma of Mental Health, in addition to engaging in various online courses, webinars and lectures. Rhi is committed to empowering individuals to develop their own personal recovery journey and achieve their desired outcomes, reflecting her passion for helping others and her deep understanding of the challenges that people with mental health issues can face.

Skye possesses more than five years of experience in the Mental Health & Disability Industry. Her areas of expertise include Leadership & Disability Management, Business Development, and Senior Support Coordination. Skye has demonstrated a high level of competence in handling complex mental illness cases and is a strong advocate for Participants, ensuring that they have the freedom to choose and exercise their rights to live a satisfying and meaningful life.

Emma holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychological Science and has a background in Behavioral Support. She is highly knowledgeable and attuned to trauma-informed practices. Emma is a compassionate, down-to-earth, and intelligent individual who adopts a person-centered approach and demonstrates a gentle/ caring nature towards her clients.

Julia is a highly qualified professional with a Bachelor’s degree in Medical Science and a Master’s degree in Brain & Behavior. With a background as a mental health clinician, she brings a wealth of experience to her role on the Sunflower Services team. Julia is a dedicated and compassionate employee who puts the needs of participants first. She is committed to promoting recovery and helping participants achieve their goals. Her calm demeanor and competence make her a valuable asset to our organisation.

Sam is currently serving as the NDIS Service Manager and Acting Team Leader at Sunflower Services. He possesses a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) along with a background in technology and Specialist Support Coordination. His professional interests lie in mental health, and he is committed to helping individuals receive the necessary support to flourish and lead comfortable lives. Sam exhibits a highly professional and composed demeanour in his role.

Aliya is currently pursuing a Diploma in Human Resources at TAFE, having already completed her Certificate IV in Human Resources Management. She possesses exceptional organisational skills and is well-presented in her demeanour. Her enthusiasm for her work is exemplary, and her administrative abilities are second to none. We are proud to have Aliya on board as our Administration Personnel and Human Resources Assistant, as she brings a thorough and professional approach to her work, coupled with a creative flair that sets her apart from her peers

Meet Mylene, a seasoned professional joining Sunflower Services with deep roots in the mental health and disability industry. As our adept Psychosocial Recovery Coach and Level 2 and 3 Support Coordinator, Mylene brings a blend of compassion and analytical acumen, backed by a Bachelor of Social Science and an Accounting degree.

Known for her sharp attention to detail and organisational prowess, Mylene is a practical force within the Sunflower team. Her trauma-informed approach ensures a secure space for individuals navigating the complexities of mental health and disability.

Mylene comes from a Culturally and Linguistic Diverse (CALD) background and can provide specialist support to those who may face barriers when dealing with the NDIS, Health and Welfare systems.

Mylene’s professionalism is more than a label; it’s a commitment to results. Her expertise and no-nonsense attitude add a layer of efficiency and precision to our holistic approach at Sunflower Services. Welcome to the team, Mylene — where competence meets compassion.

Sam brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role of Senior/Specialist Support Coordinator. With 12 years under his belt, spanning both the UK and Australia, Sam has a deep understanding of the disability industry, particularly in areas of complex mental health, forensic mental health, and youth justice.

Sam possesses a comprehensive understanding of the disability sector, including complex cases and interactions with government agencies.

Specialized experience: His expertise lies in supporting individuals with complex mental health needs, those within the forensic mental health system, and young people involved in the youth justice system.

Sam has a proven track record of working effectively alongside government organizations such as DHS, Department of child projections, The Exceptional needs unit, Office of the public advocate, and Youth Justice.

Sam is passionate about empowering individuals and ensuring their voices are heard, advocating for their rights and best interests.

Brittany is a thorough, creative and hard-working House Manager, who thrives on attention to detail and going above and beyond in her role. Brittany has been working in the Mental Health space for several years and is always on the lookout for more courses to complete that enables her the competency and the skills to best lead her team. Brittany is a kind, fair and caring House Manager and always puts the Participants in the forefront of her work.

Kayla Earle, a Caseworker at Sunflower Services, holds a Psychology Bachelor’s Degree and an Advanced Post-graduate in Psychology. Radiating positivity and warmth, she’s a beacon of support for Sunflower Services Participants. Kayla’s outgoing nature and great sense of humour creates an inviting environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing their journeys and planning future supports in their communities. With her deep understanding of human behaviour, she approaches her work with empathy and dedication. Kayla’s goal is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, serving as both a professional resource and a trusted friend along their journey.

Tori Gibson, a Human Resource Generalist at Sunflower Services, blends expertise with a touch of creativity. With a background in HR within the therapies sector, she’s adept at fostering an environment where workers feel valued and empowered. Tori’s academic credentials include a Bachelor of Psychology, a Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management, and certification in Work Health and Safety, underscoring her commitment to professional development. Known for her fun yet professional demeanor, Tori cultivates a culture of collaboration and autonomy. Her passion for enhancing team dynamics ensures that employees not only thrive but also enjoy their work experience to the fullest.

Emma Danks, a Support Coordinator/Psychosocial Recovery Coach, brings a wealth of expertise to her role. With a background in support coordination management and extensive knowledge of the NDIS landscape, she’s a trusted resource for clients navigating the system. Emma’s experience includes teaching training sessions and consulting within the COS sphere, further highlighting her dedication to empowerment and advocacy. Professional and kind, Emma stays up-to-date of current NDIS trends, ensuring her clients receive the most relevant support. With her finger on the pulse of industry developments, she fosters a supportive environment where individuals can thrive and achieve their goals.

Alissa Hodges, a dedicated Specialist Support Coordinator and Psychosocial Recovery Coach, brings a wealth of expertise to her role. With a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) and extensive experience at Sunflower Services, she’s adept at navigating the intricacies of complex mental health challenges. Alissa’s compassionate nature shines through in her work, offering kindness and empathy to those she supports. Her intelligence and skills make her a valuable asset in guiding individuals towards their journey of recovery and empowerment.

Claire is a dynamic Caseworker with a zest for nurturing growth. Coming from a teaching background, pursuing studies at Newcastle University, she thrives on fostering learning in diverse settings. With a warm, engaging demeanour, Claire effortlessly connects with both adults and children, infusing her interactions with passion and positivity. Her expertise extends to Out of School Hours (OOSH) management, where she orchestrates enriching experiences. Rooted in therapeutic and trauma-informed practices, Claire brings empathy and insight to her work, creating supportive environments where individuals flourish.

Tara is a dedicated professional with a wealth of experience in the field of disability support and education. With 13 years of experience in disability services, Tara has honed her skills and knowledge to provide effective support to individuals with diverse needs.

For 8 years, Tara worked full-time at an autism-specific school, where she demonstrated her commitment to understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by students on the autism spectrum. Her extensive experience in this specialised environment has
equipped her with valuable insights and strategies for fostering growth and development in individuals with autism.

In addition to her work in the education sector, Tara has also dedicated 2 years to support work, further expanding her expertise in providing personalised care and assistance to individuals with disabilities.

Tara’s professional development is reflected in her participation in various courses, including “Working with Children,” “Aged Care,” and “Support Educator in a School Environment.” These courses have equipped her with essential skills and knowledge relevant
to her roles in disability support and education.

Furthermore, Tara has completed the Berry Street trauma training, demonstrating her commitment to understanding and addressing the impact of trauma on individuals she supports.

Tara prioritises safety and preparedness, as evidenced by her up-to-date CPR and first aid certification, ensuring that she can respond effectively to emergencies and provide immediate assistance when needed.

With her extensive experience, ongoing professional development, and dedication to quality care, Tara is well-equipped to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities.

Jacqueline is a dedicated NDIS Specialist Coordinator and Psychosocial Recovery Coach with a wealth of experience in the disability sector. With over four years of professional engagement, Jacqueline has developed a deep understanding and commitment to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities. Beginning her career as a support worker, Jacqueline’s compassion and leadership skills quickly saw her advance to the role of Team Leader. In her current position, she excels as a Specialist Support Coordinator and Psychosocial Recovery Coach, where she continues to make a significant impact.

Specialized Experience:

Jacqueline possesses specialized experience in supporting individuals within the forensic mental health system and complex mental heath . Her expertise and dedication enable her to provide tailored support and guidance, fostering positive outcomes for those navigating these challenging environments.

Zaid is a Case Worker at Sunflower Services who has a wealth of experience as a Mental Health and Disability Support Worker in the industry. Zaid also has previous experience as a Youth Support Worker in remote regions. Zaid’s strengths are compassion, empathy and warmth. Zaid is open-minded and willing to adapt and walk alongside Participants.

Anais has a Bachelor of Criminology and has an informed, compassionate and diligent approach. Anais has worked previously in the field as a Mental Health and Disability Support Worker, and approaches each of her Participants with a person-centred lens. Anais values communication and consistency, and ensures her Participants feel heard and valued.

Say Hello to our new Support Coordinator/Psychosocial Recovery Coach Sophie! Sophie holds a Cert IV in Disability and has over four years of experience working in the disability sector. Sophie is passionate about enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities and empowering them to achieve their goals. Sophie excels in implementing effective support plans and collaborating closely with NDIS participants and service providers to ensure the best outcomes. Her in-depth understanding of NDIS guidelines allows her to navigate the system with ease, providing reliable guidance and support to those she serves. Committed to promoting independence and respecting each individual’s unique journey, Sophie communicates clearly and proactively, ensuring that her clients feel heard and supported. Always staying informed about policy changes and current NDIS trends, Sophie is dedicated to continuous learning and professional development. Her warm and approachable nature fosters a supportive environment where clients can thrive. With her expertise and passion for advocacy, Sophie is ready to make a meaningful impact within the NDIS community.

Brittany is a dedicated Case Worker with a Bachelor of Psychological Science and is currently pursuing a Post-Graduate Certificate in Emotional and Behavioural Support in Education. Her academic background, combined with her extensive experience in Youth Work, equips her to provide tailored and informed support for individuals facing diverse challenges. Brittany believes in the power of building strong, trusting relationships rooted in empathy and respect, which she sees as essential for effective support.
Her warm and approachable demeanour fosters an environment where participants feel safe to share their experiences and aspirations. Brittany’s commitment to understanding human behaviour allows her to craft personalised case management plans that empower participants to reach their goals. As a passionate advocate for positive change, she is dedicated to ongoing professional development, continuously enhancing her skills to provide high-quality, compassionate care. Through her work, Brittany strives to make a lasting impact in the lives of those she supports, serving as both a knowledgeable resource and a trusted ally on their journey.

Meet our amazing Roster Coordinator Maddy! Maddy has exceptional knowledge and experience in the Industry in both a Rostering and Disability Support Coordination Role. Maddy possesses excellent organisational and communication skills, and radiates understanding, warmth and positivity in her interactions. Maddy’s experience allows for valuable insight into the importance of collaboration and an informed approach when working with Participants and Staff alike. Maddy is a valued member of the Sunflower Team whose dedication and commitment to the role allows for our daily operations to run smoothly and to the highest standard.

Allison is a dedicated Psychosocial Recovery Coach and Support Coordinator at Sunflower Services, committed to helping participants unlock their full potential. Drawing from extensive training in hypnotherapy, psychotherapy, coaching, NLP, and transpersonal art therapy, Ally empowers individuals to take control of their recovery journey with a strengths-based approach. She is passionate about personal growth, currently pursuing a Diploma in Counselling to expand her skills further.

With a Trauma-Informed Recovery background, Ally brings a deep understanding of mental health complexities. Her experience as a youth worker and peer support worker at trauma healing retreats enhances her ability to connect with clients compassionately, fostering an environment of trust. Ally thrives on helping participants not only navigate their NDIS plans but also find their authentic path to healing. At Sunflower Services, she aligns with the team’s commitment to provide person-centered care, guiding clients through life’s challenges with empathy, creativity, and a focus on autonomy and positive transformation.

Please join us in welcoming our newest Support Coordinator/Psychosocial Recovery Coach, Hayley! Hayley holds both a Bachelor’s and Honours Degree in Psychological Science, and has worked previously as a Behavioural Therapist. This role saw Hayley providing Mental Health counselling to adults in rural and remote areas. Hayley’s empathy and expertise allow her to provide an informed, tailored and therapeutic approach when working with her Participants. Hayley enjoys getting to know her Participants and understanding their needs, goals and aspirations. Hayley is a valued member of the Adelaide team who brings a positive approach to all aspects of the role. Welcome Hayley!

Meet Hannah Ennis, one of our Support Coordinators/Psychosocial Recovery Coaches in Adelaide! Hannah has a Certificate IV in Community Services, and has worked previously as a Disability Support Worker, Customer Liaison and Support Coordinator. Hannah prides herself on providing compassionate, holistic and authentic support to her Participants. Hannah is passionate about linking Participants with services that align with their support needs and goals. Hannah has a key focus on rapport building and ensuring her Participants feel comfortable and heard. Hannah’s interests outside of work include catching up with friends, hiking in new locations and reading! Welcome Hannah, we are so happy you are here.

Please warmly welcome one of our lovely Adelaide team members Emily! Emily is a Support Coordinator/Psychosocial Recovery Coach who has a passion for supporting Participants in the Psychosocial disability sector. Emily utilises her experience in Human Resource Management to elevate Participant experience and empower them on their individual journey. Emily values relationships and building authentic connections in her work. Outside of work, Emily enjoys family time and occasionally getting her creative on! Emily is an asset and brings an aura of positivity to every room she is in.

Meet our amazing Case Worker Carlye! Carlye is our first Case Worker in Adelaide and is bringing our excellent Mentoring standard to SA. Carlye brings a breathe of fresh air to the industry with a recent Bachelors of Psychology (Honours), specialising in cognitive neuroscience. Carlye is passionate about the psychosocial disability space, empowering her Participants to achieve their goals and enhance their quality of life. Carlye’s strengths are based in communication, and a down-to-earth, person-centric approach. Carlye builds strong, trusting relationships in those she supports and leads, ensuring they feel heard, valued and supported. Caryle’s interests include travelling, playing hockey and visiting the beach! Carlye is a valued and appreciated new member of our Sunflower team.

Emily-Jane has over 5 years experience in the sector and brings a wealth of expertise and a deep commitment to supporting individuals in need. Holding a Diploma in Community Services, she specializes in problem-solving and tackling a wide range of challenges with a positive and practical approach. Highly organised and detail-oriented, Emily-Jane is known for her comprehensive and client-centered approach, focusing on effective communication and strong advocacy. She has a deep understanding of both NDIS and community-based resources, and she excels at building strong, trusting relationships with the individuals she supports. With her compassionate, enthusiastic, and kind demeanour, Emily-Jane is passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those she works with.

After more than two years of dedicated service with Sunflower Services as a Mental Health and Disability Support Worker, Mia has transitioned into her new role as a Support Coordinator/Psychosocial Recovery Coach. With a hands-on approach, Mia takes the time to connect with Participants, gaining a deep understanding of their needs and how to best navigate their NDIS plan. Holding a Diploma in Mental Health, Mia has experience working with individuals impacted by domestic violence and homelessness. She approaches her work with compassion, always maintaining a trauma-informed perspective. Outside of her professional life, Mia enjoys reading and spending time in nature. Her extensive experience with the NDIS and working with Participants with diverse psychosocial disabilities makes her an invaluable asset to the Sunflower team. We are thrilled to welcome the incredible Mia!

With over 5 years of experience as a Support Coordinator, Tom brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, particularly in managing complex NDIS issues. He is a goals-focused professional who thrives on building positive, empathetic connections with those he supports. Tom has more than 10 years of experience volunteering and working with people with disabilities, which further enhances his compassionate approach to support. Always eager to learn, Tom is currently expanding his skills by learning Spanish and Latin dance! Outside of work, he enjoys staying active through tennis and is actively involved in his local community and club, volunteering and coaching. Tom is a creative problem-solver who loves thinking outside the box to find effective solutions.

Please join us in welcoming Jodie, the newest addition to the Sunflower Services team as a Case Worker! In her role, Jodie will oversee our Support Work Participants and manage a case load of ILO placements. With over five years of experience as a Mental Health and Disability Support Worker, Jodie has worked in a variety of settings, including STA, Day Programs, and Supported Independent Living. Known for her proactive, positive attitude, and can-do approach, Jodie always delivers her work to the highest standard, with a strong focus on her Participants and their goals. She understands the dynamic nature of mental health and uses her excellent interpersonal skills to build rapport and support Participants through their journey. A dedicated early riser, Jodie enjoys exercising and spending her days off by the water. She’s also a music enthusiast!

Meet Bonnie, our newest Support Coordinator/Psychosocial Recovery Coach in Adelaide! Bonnie previously worked with Sunflower Services as a Mental Health and Disability Support Worker, where she built strong, meaningful connections with our Participants and excelled in supporting those with complex Psychosocial disabilities. Her ability to foster trust and rapport made her an invaluable part of the team.

Bonnie holds a Certificate III in Community and Family Services and approaches her work with a kind, genuine, and informed mindset. She is passionate about learning and continuously improving her skills. With her natural strengths in adaptability, empathy, and warmth, Bonnie has a unique ability to provide tailored support to each Participant.

Outside of work, Bonnie enjoys staying active with Pilates and spending time at the beach. She’s also a huge dog lover! We’re thrilled to have Bonnie join our team and are excited to see the positive impact she will continue to make on the lives of those she works with.