Alliances are based on the premise that recovery happens primarily in the community, involving a sense of belonging, meaning and purpose, hope and belief and a positive personal identity.
The Yarra and Boroondara Mental Health Alliances strive to embody these values. Alliances create forums for workers across sectors in mental health, AOD, justice, and homelessness along with people of lived experience, where it is possible to create allies, share stories, advocate, collaborate and work towards creating a better service system. This presentation will highlight the value of Alliances with examples of collaboration that are practical and effective. It will also highlight how effective Alliances can create optimistic and supportive workspaces so crucial to combat worker fatigue and nihilism, RCVMHS Recommendation 59 support the professional well-being of the mental health and well-being workforce.
Presenters
Mirella Rao, Social Worker Senior Clinician, Nexus Dual Diagnosis Consultation Service
Mirella has degrees in Arts, Social Work, Social Sciences and Theology. Mirella has worked in both social work and pastoral care in various settings, including hospitals, EAP, justice and homeless. Mirella has a particular interest in creating and maintaining healthy workforces that foster compassionate care, and collaborative practice.
Dr Kevan Myers, Team Leader, Nexus Dual Diagnosis Consultation Service
Kevan is the Team Leader at Nexus Dual Diagnosis Consultation Service and a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers. He has recently completed his Ph.D. at Monash University based on the Reasons For Use Package of which he was a co-designer. Kevan is the current chair of YMHA.