ABOUT JESS
Hi! I’m Jess, founder and Director of Sunshine Coast Social Work Services Pty Ltd.
My childhood passion to work with both people and animals led me to complete a Bachelor of Social Work in 2009. In continuing to fulfill my goals and expand my practice I completed training with the Equine Psychotherapy Institute in 2015.
Over the last 15 years I have worked in the Disability Sector, supported families and young people who have experienced trauma, and worked therapeutically with young people who have engaged in harmful sexual behaviours.
I have a lived experience of disability and navigating the NDIS. I am passionate about supporting those with disabilities and advocating for equality and inclusion for all.
I love gardening and cooking, and being in nature is my happy place. When I was a young child I would pretend my bike was a pony and I spent countless hours with my head in a book or in the yard with my pet dog Max.
I am committed to continually improving my knowledge and wisdom in this innovative field of animal-assisted therapy while pursuing my passion for connecting with animals and people.
I look forward to working alongside you and offering a grounded, collaborative and fun space to connect with animals, learn, grow and meet your goals.
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SERVICES
Social Work and Therapy Sessions
Face to Face, Telephone and online.
Equine and Animal Assisted Social Work Sessions
Equine and Animal Assisted Social Work Sessions
Assessment and Recommendation Reports
If you do not currently have Positive Behaviour Support funding but feel this would be beneficial, we can put together a report and recommendation.
"Thank you for offering a space where I could explore my feelings in a safe and supportive space"
- Adam
TESTIMONIALS
"Equine Assisted Therapy supported me in becoming more mindful and connected to my emotions and physical pain in a calming and peaceful environment."
- Barbara
To Misty,
Thank you for listening to me. Hope you had as much fun as me"
- Jamie - 14 yrs
FAQ
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Can I ride the horses?Some sessions may involve a mounted experience in which a participant is lead whilst on a horse, however there is no formal riding lesson or hippotherapy component in Equine Assisted Therapy.
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How long is a session?In paddock sessions are typically one hour in length, with an additional 15 minutes of therapist time dedicated to non-face-to-face supports such as making session notes, case planning, scoring assessments and measures among others. Group sessions can be up to two hours in length.
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Is my session private?All sessions are confidential. However, under the Australian Association of Social Work guidelines, all Social Workers are mandated to report any risk of harm to a child. If it is appropriate participants will be notified prior to any report being issued to The Department of Child Safety or the Queensland Police Service. Session notes will only be released if subpoenaed.
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Do you accept NDIS plans?Yes, we can accept Self-Managed and Plan-Managed NDIS packages. As we are not a registered NDIS provider we are unable to accept NDIA-managed plans. For services provided under the NDIS, please ensure funding is available under the relevant line item: Equine Assisted Social Worker - Capacity Building - Improved Daily Living: 15_621_0128_1_3 Assessment Recommendation Therapy or Training - Social Worker Equine Assisted Occupational Therapist - Capacity Building - Improved Daily Living: 15_617_0128_1_3 Assessment Recommendation Therapy or Training - Occupational Therapist. Equine Assisted Therapy Specialist - Capacity Building - Improved Daily Living: 15_056_0128_1_3 Assessment Recommendation Therapy or Training - Other Professional.
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How much does it cost?Rates for NDIS Participants are as per the NDIS scheduled rate, currently $193.99per hour excl. GST (session cost incl. note-taking $242.49). NDIS reports can be provided for an additional cost of $193.99 per hour, or part thereof. Private rates are $195.00 per hour excl. GST (session cost incl. note-taking $243.575). Concession rates are available for those with concession cards, but no NDIS funding.
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Do you send any session notes?Yes! A brief summary of our sessions are provided. These include psychoeducation and strategies discussed during the session. We also liaise and collaborate with other services, schools and practitioners as needed (and always with your express permission). Please note: Prices are current as at 15 Feb 2024. Our prices are reviewed twice annually. Clients will be notified of any changes to our rates prior to any adjustments.
