Counselor, Licensed Master Social Worker, Life Coach and Psychotherapist
Counselor, Licensed Master Social Worker, Life Coach and Psychotherapist
Hi, I’m Michael, a compassionate and dedicated mental health professional with over 15 years of experience in trauma-informed care, counselling, and psychotherapy. My journey in mental health is deeply personal, shaped by caring for family members with significant challenges and the loss of many loved ones to suicide. These experiences inspire me to provide a safe, empathetic, and culturally inclusive space where individuals can heal, grow, and thrive.
Why Choose Me?
1- Lived Experience at the Core
My journey as a carer for family members with mental health challenges, including navigating the grief of losing many loved ones to suicide, has shaped my empathy-driven and trauma-informed approach. I’ve walked the path, so I understand yours.
2- Extensive Qualifications
I am a PhD candidate in Mental Health, hold a Master of Social Work (specialising in counselling for loss and grief), an MBA (Distinction), a Diploma in Psychology (with Merit), and certifications in mental health, organisational psychology, and leadership. I am also a current Accredited Social Worker with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) and an active member of professional organisations, including the Australian & New Zealand Mental Health Association (ANZMH), the Refugee Council of Australia, and the United Nations Association of WA.
3- Proven Expertise Across Sectors
Alongside decades of lived experience, I bring over 15 years of professional expertise in Australia’s mental health sector. I’ve led award-winning programs, supported individuals with complex needs, and worked collaboratively with diverse communities. Operating at the intersection of service delivery, leadership, and advocacy, I’ve consistently helped people and teams achieve meaningful, impactful outcomes.
4- Leadership Across National, State, and Organisational levels
I’ve shaped policies, programs, and practices that prioritise inclusion, amplify underrepresented voices, and foster collaboration. As a member of various boards, advisory groups, and steering committees at national, state, and organisational levels, I’ve contributed to strategies and initiatives that deliver real-world impact across all sectors.
5- Tailored, Culturally Inclusive Practice
I prioritise delivering support that is values-driven, trauma-informed, and culturally inclusive, ensuring you feel seen, respected, and understood, creating a safe enough space where meaningful progress can be achieved.
6- Public Speaker & Author
As a published author in peer-reviewed journals, including the Irish Journal of Psychological Medicine, and a regular presenter at flagship events like the WA Mental Health Conference and the National Suicide Prevention Conference, I bring evidence-based insights and thought leadership to every engagement. This ensures you benefit from innovative perspectives, expert knowledge, and a deep commitment to advancing mental health and lived experience leadership.
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, grief, or seeking personal growth, I am here to guide you every step of the way. Together, we’ll build a path toward resilience, healing, and lasting change.
- PhD (Mental Health) - Charles Sturt University in 2028
- Graduate Certificate in Mental Health - Australian Catholic University in 2023
- Diploma in Psychology (Merit) - Austin Peay State University in 2023
- Master of Social Work (Grief and loss counselling) - University of New England in 2020
- MBA (Distinction) - Cardiff Metropolitan University in 2014
