A TEAM focused on working through issues with young people is ready to roll in our town.
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From Tuesday, Headspace Port Macquarie will welcome anyone between the ages of 12 and 25 struggling with mental health issues, physical health problems or just wanting to work through some worries.
Clinical nurse supervisor Natasha Comarin, youth workers Sarah Reid, Casey Hudson and Mark Riordan, and front office coordinator Mary Spackman will combine their vast range of skills to provide a much needed service in our community.
Headspace is in the process of gathering together a youth reference group with local young people, who will shine light on key issues for youth in our town. Mrs Hudson will coordinate the group and hoped to attract at least 30 young people eager to speak on behalf of their demographic.
New drugs on our streets, prevalence of issues such as self harm and homelessness are some issues Headspace expects to help clients work through.
The group will be split into two sub-groups - over-18 representatives and a 14-15 age group.
Mrs Hudson described herself as being “fresh in the industry” with several years under her belt working with young people as a youth worker.
“I will continue networking and working with young people in our community, and hopefully making a better difference for the future,” she said.
Ms Comarin has a wide range of experience working in mental health, with a focus on children and adolescents.
Ms Spackman will be the first friendly face young people see upon entering the Short Street facility.
Service manager David Allan said she would be an integral part of the team as the first port of call for clients. As a long-term local, Ms Reid is aware of the demographics in our town and has noticed the emergence of young leaders in recent years.
She said engaging with support networks like parents or guardians was an important step towards solving issues for youth.
Mr Riordan has a school counsellor background, with more than a decade experience in the welfare industry.
For more information, phone 6588 7300.