Over the last twenty years I have had the privilege of working with thousands of young people and their families. Those kids who you care about deeply are close to my heart too!
Most people don’t know that I started my career as a primary school teacher. I soon discovered that my real passion was to see young people overcome challenges and stay connected to caring adults. So, I did what you do when you are twenty-four and want to change the world. I left teaching and established a harm prevention charity, called Youth Excel.
Youth Excel initially delivered small group support programs for girls ‘at risk’ of dropping out of education. My days were spent delivering programs in high schools, alternative learning centres and community organisations. Word spread. Local papers kept running stories on my work. I became well known for successful outcomes with teenagers who did not flourish under more traditional forms of therapy.
For the next 20 years, Youth Excel continued to grow and expand. One of my most successful projects was The Youth Excel Centre, a multi-disciplinary clinic which offered psychology, counselling, mentoring for children and teenagers. It was a big-hearted, innovative place. My team of twelve and I loved every minute of it.
Today I use my experience to write and speak to young people, parents and professionals. You will find me down-to-earth and passionate about the issues that impact your home or school. I hope to transfer years of hands-on experience in a practical and honest way.
My official title is educator, author and speaker, with a special interest in tweens and teens. I have included below a short biography to make it easier for those introducing me at an event. You will find my books and resources in my online shop. Everything I write or film is designed to help you build a strong relationships with your child, and stay connected to them as they grow.
My work has been featured on The Today Show, Today Tonight and Channel 10 Morning News and Sky News, as well as countless print media including The Age, The Courier Mail and The Daily Telegraph.