How do you describe your Peer Supervision practice?

My peer supervision practice is guided by the values central to the Lived Experience Workforce and grounded in the historical context of the struggle for consumer rights. I operate from a perspective where biomedical ways of thinking represent an important, but limited, way to consider mental health challenges, and recognise the difficulties that peer workers face in integrating their distinct contributions within conventional clinical approaches. I aim to ensure that my supervision can provide space to reflect and challenge peers to consider how they operate according to their values, while also keeping the pragmatic landscape of these roles in view. I try to ensure that supervision provides a space to collaboratively consider how peers might ensure, or sometime address, the systemic issues they may face, and navigate the ethical challenges that may appear in their role.

What information regarding your Peer Work, Lived Experience, and/or areas of interest do you want Peer Workers to know?

I have been a member of CoMHWA's systemic advocacy team since 2023, and in this capacity have worked with a wide range of peers across WA. I have previously undertaken post-graduate research into the philosophical underpinnings of medical models and practices, as well as the conceptual origins of Lived Experience. My own lived experience of mental health challenges led me to undertake this research as a way to comprehend and think through the problem of reductionism in prevalent understandings of mental health. I am passionate about ensuring that peer workers are afforded the space to help improve the lives of consumers, and work effectively within the space of the possible to improve services across the state.

What other information is relevant for Peer Workers to know?

(will only be working through CoMHWA), hours 8-4pm 5 days a week. Can do online or in person in proximal to Belmont/East Vic Park