Neurodivergence and addictions – a co-designed client responsive support group

Neurodivergent people with addictions have unique challenges accessing support, especially in regional settings where healthcare is limited. When two neurodivergent clients of a regional alcohol and other drug (AOD) service identified a need for peer connection and support, their AOD counsellor worked with them to come up with a solution.  Following a process of co-design and consultation with clients, Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health began a trial peer support group.  Facilitated by an AOD counsellor, group members were able to draw on each other’s lived experiences in a non-judgmental setting.  Group members reported that they can be themselves, feel less alone, feel better understood, and more comfortable sharing their challenges of addictive behaviour.  The group continues to meet and there are plans to introduce guest speakers and other activities as determined by the group.

Staumn Hunder | AOD Counsellor, Sunbury Cobaw Community Health

Staumn Hunder completed a Master of Art Therapy and a passion group therapeutic approaches. For over 20 years Staumn has provided individual support and facilitated arts based and non arts based groups in metro and rural settings such as Youth Prevention and Recovery Care, therapeutic day programs and residential AOD and mental health programs.

Lynsey Ward | AOD Counsellor, Sunbury Cobaw Community Health

Lynsey Ward is an AOD counsellor with a passion for responding to consumer needs, advocating for lived experience voices, and bringing flare and care to therapy spaces. Lynsey has worked in various AOD roles since 2015. She is a friend, a mother, a trainer, a student and loves a project.

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