Melissa J

Role: Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: western Melbourne/Geelong

Qualifications + Specialties

• Bachelor of Nursing, Charles Sturt University
• Certificate of Nursing, Australian Catholic University
• Certificates in Palliative care, Pain management, Dementia care and Mental Health care

Melissa is an Advanced Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner and a Registered Nurse with an interest in complex diagnoses and improving the quality of life of all of her participants.
Melissa has been a part of the InsightPBS team since August 2022 and is proud that her values are aligned with InsightPBS’s as this allows working with people with disabilities to be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Nisha K

Role: Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: Western Melbourne

Qualifications + Specialties

• Bachelors in Community Services
• Masters of Social Work

Nisha has been employed as a behaviour support practitioner at InsightPBS for nearly two years. Her work philosophy revolves around being person-centered and holistic. Although she is still finding her specialty in this field due to her relatively recent entry, she does have experience working with individuals with dementia. One aspect she truly appreciates about this job is the flexibility to work from anywhere and the supportive environment fostered by her colleagues.

Lachlan W

Role: Advanced Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: Shepparton

Qualifications + Specialties

• Bachelor of Health Sciences (Majoring in Rehabilitation Counselling), La Trobe Uni
• Graduate Diploma in Rehabilitation Studies, La Trobe Uni

Lachlan is a Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner that has been working with InsightPBS for 2 years. He takes great pride in being accessible and highly responsive with his work and enjoys building relationships and collaborating with stakeholders.

Sharnie C

Role: Proficient Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: Denilliquin/Echuca

Qualifications + Specialties

• Advanced Diploma in Children’s Services
• Mental Health First Aid Office
• Trauma training
• Child Protection training
• Diploma in Leadership and Management

Sharnie started at Insight PBS in October 2022. Her approach to work is centered around building relationships, open communication, a person-centered approach, and improving the quality of life for the participants. She is passionate about making a difference in the lives of the people she supports, particularly advocating for individuals with disabilities. Working side by side with participants and their families/supports to build relationships and empower them to increase independence and community involvement in order to improve their quality of life are what she loves about her job.

Anna M

Role: Proficient Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: Bendigo & Melbourne Metro

Qualifications + Specialties

• Bachelor of Education (Primary)
  (Deakin University)
• Graduate Certificate in Aboriginal Studies
  (University of South Australia)

Anna is a Behaviour Support Practitioner who joined Insight PBS in June 2024. She comes from a teaching background and has extensive experience of children with a wide range of needs and personal experiences. Anna is passionate about inclusivity, proactive intervention and achieving positive, authentic relationships with participants and care teams. She is empathetic and dedicated to working collaboratively towards shared goals and outcomes. Anna operates with a person-centred approach and a keen hands-on, face-to-face methodology.

Scott O

Role: Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: Bendigo, Macedon Ranges & Central Victoria

Qualifications + Specialties

• Bachelor of Psychological Science w/ honours

I have 13 years’ experience mentoring and supporting recreation teams delivering services across the aged care and homelessness sectors. Prior to this, I worked for several years as a support worker, primarily supporting younger men with mental health conditions or intellectual disabilities.

I am quite thorough which means I can take my time processing. I like to communicate a lot, but will do the majority of my thinking and planning either on my own, or in small teams. I enjoy being face to face with particpants, however, I am practical and happy to work via telehealth or teams meetings. I like to have fun, while always keeping in mind that there is a job to be done.

I have an active interest in all things outdoors. Camping, canoing, wildlife photography (in particular birds), motorbike riding and gardening can all be on my weekly schedule. On top of that, I’ve spent all my adult life writing and playing music. Living a full life is important to me!
Professionally, I have over 20 years experience working in the social sector, along with an honours degree in psychology, which I enjoy building on and putting into use.

Charlotte S

Role: Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: Bendigo & Central Victoria

Qualifications + Specialties

• Dementia Behavioural Support
• Dementia Specialisation
• Diploma Health Science 
• Lifestyle Officer 
• Disability Support Work 
• SIL Accomodation

I like to take a person centered, and holistic approach. I understand that as people, we are not all the same, and require different needs, and wants. Using this approach, I pride myself in active listening to enable myself to develop individualized plans, and approaches. I am a compassionate and caring practitioner, who will always advocate for my participants, and their families.
My experience working in aged care, and disability support work has allowed me to see the impact that adequate support, funding, and care can make in a person’s life. My goal is always to improve one’s quality of life.

Ann-Marie C

Role: Proficient Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: Echuca

Qualifications + Specialties

• Bachelors of Psychology

I have a keen interest in supporting people with ASD and their families, especially children with Autism who are non-verbal, early intervention programs, self harming behaviours.

Shonnaye V

Role: Proficient Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: Northern Melbourne

Qualifications + Specialties

• Bachelor of Community and Human Service, Federation University.
• Certificate II and IV in Human and Community Services (Leap Training and AGB).
• Certificate III in Aged Care Work (Nortec Employment and Training)

Shonnaye is a Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner, she has recently started working for Insight PBS and has been in the community service industry since 2010. She operates her professional practices is working within a person centered and strengths-based approach. Shonnaye works with a holistic approach that inspires to work within a collaborative practice that is person focus and with all key stakeholder aspiring to achieve great outcomes for the individuals she works with.

Poppy P

Role: Advanced Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: Inner Melbourne

Qualifications + Specialties

• Bachelors of Science (Degree with Honours), University of Melbourne

Poppy is a Proficient Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner, with a keen interest in building rapport with participants and care teams through an inclusive and collaborative approach. She aims to improve the quality of life of others by highlighting the goals and strengths of others.

Teagan M

Role: Proficient Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: Melbourne Metro

Qualifications + Specialties

• Bachelor of BioMedical Science (Neuroscience), University of Western Australia
• Master of Social Work, University of Canberra

I enjoy working with both children and adults, and I have a strong interest in ASD, ADHD, mental health, and acquired brain injuries. I love building meaningful connections, centred around understanding and leveraging individual strengths.
Colleagues and clients recognise me for my compassionate and intuitive nature.
I am dedicated to active listening and prioritise effective communication and collaboration to ensure that my work is both genuine and impactful.

Laurelle E

Role: Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: Eastern Melbourne

Qualifications + Specialties

• Counselling Background
• Advanced Diploma Disability Work 
• Leadership & Management 
• First Aid for Mental Health 
• Disability & Residential Services 

I have worked in the community services sector for more than 30 years with a strong focus on supporting people with disability, mental health, justice and behaviours of concern to lead full, valued lives.
My career has been focused on a social justice and human rights commitment in the delivery of outcomes for people.
I have held a variety of roles from participant facing to leadership and Executive Management of services including community based and in home support, short term accommodation or respite, facility-based day options and accommodation support. I have extensive experience in working with people.

I have a career long commitment to working with and advocating for people and have a strong background and training in person centred active supports including positive behaviour supports. I believe in being inclusive on all levels; people, culture, circles of support and I have a sound knowledge of mental health and wellbeing.

People can expect me to listen and then ask many questions. I believe in treating people with respect and taking a person centred approach when I engage with people and their supporters.

I have an attention to detail that has enhanced the work I have done and developed an ability to quickly and mindfully assess risk and act accordingly.

My personality is a little bit introverted, but I know how to speak up when needed.

I come from a participant facing background having held a variety of positions during my time in the community services sector which enables me to see supports and service from a multi-faceted perspective. I am able to bring years of experience to the ‘table’ and I am resourceful in life and when working with people. I take a considered and calm approach to everyone and every discussion that I participate in.

Erin R

Role: Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: South-East Melbourne

Qualifications + Specialties

• Bachelor of Social Sciences + Behavioural Studies
• Engaging in Positive Behaviour Support Practices 
• Disability Services

I have worked across a variety of different environments within the disability field for the last 10 years. I first started working in schools when I was living in London in 2016 where I was placed in a school to support students who had been asked to leave mainstream settings and were waiting for an appropriate placement based on their level of disability.
When I moved back to Melbourne in 2018 I continued to work in special education school setting across the south-east Melbourne region as an education support worker. The majority of my time in these schools was with younger students, who I found a passion for working with. I was supported to run my own programs for students who required extra input and had my first exposure to what behaviour support practices looked like through the allied health teams on site.
I decided to move into working as a private disability support worker after the covid pandemic, whilst I studied my bachelors degree. During this time I worked with a number of children and young adults supporting various and complex physical and psychosocial disabilities. I was also lucky enough to run a social program for young adults with disabilities which involved social outings on weekends and weekend camps away every 3 months. This exposure taught me the value of wholistic approaches to behaviour management and adaptable approaches across environments.

My approach is very person centred. I like to be able to hear and understand all sides and aspects of what may be causing behaviours, and interact with the participant themselves to self-advocate as much as possible. As my interest is working with children, I provide an empathetic approach and recognise that being the parent of a child with additional needs can provide challenges to the wellbeing of everyone supporting the child.

My personal hobbies and interests include reformer Pilates, hanging out with my niece and nephew and reading a good book! I am a little bit of a nerd and love anything dystopian, fantasy or sci-fi.

Jess R

Role: Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: South-East Melbourne

Qualifications + Specialties

• Bachelor of Psychological Science, Deakin University
• Graduate Diploma of Psychology Advanced, Monash University

With a background in Disability Support Work, Jessica brings practical insight, empathy, and compassion to her practice. She values forming meaningful connections with the people she supports, their families, and care teams, and strives to empower others to feel understood, supported, and confident in achieving their goals.

Jessica is known for her empathetic and collaborative approach, ensuring that each person’s voice, preferences, and goals remain central to her practice. She takes a person-centred and strengths-based approach to behaviour support, focusing on enhancing quality of life by building on each individual’s unique abilities, strengths, and interests.

Priscilla C

Role: Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: South-East Melbourne

Qualifications + Specialties

• Certificate IV Disability
• ADHD Certificate
• ASD Certificate
• Certificate in Dementia Care

Hi, my name is Priscilla.
I am a dedicated and experienced Behaviour Practitioner with a strong foundation in providing 1:1 support to individuals with disabilities. I have worked with both children and adults across a broad spectrum of diagnoses, including Autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy, acquired brain injuries, and other complex needs.

My hands-on experience has equipped me with valuable insights into behaviour and individualised support strategies. I am passionate about advocating for my participants and take pride in delivering support that is both effective and person-centred. I am always looking for creative, out-of-the-box approaches to ensure each individual receives the care and support they need to thrive.

Valerie A

Role: Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: South-East Melbourne

Qualifications + Specialties

• De-escalation & conflict resolution 
• Trauma-informed practice
• Counselling & mentoring 
• Cross-culture communication

My approach to work is warm, calm, and genuinely person-centred. I take the time to understand each individual’s strengths, needs, and comfort levels so they feel safe, respected, and heard. People can expect a compassionate presence who listens, communicates clearly, and supports them at their own pace. My focus is always on dignity, connection, and helping people feel confident in their everyday life.

I bring a mix of lived experience, genuine empathy, and a calm, steady presence that helps people feel safe from the very first interaction. I don’t just support participants—I build real relationships, honour their pace, and celebrate their strengths.

Outside of work, I love strength training, kickboxing, dancing, beach walks and catching up with loved ones. I’m known for my warmth, my reliability, and my ability to bring a grounded, positive energy into every space I walk into.

Karlee Y

Role: Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: South-East Melbourne

Qualifications + Specialties

• Masters of Social Work
• Past Case Manager 
• Psychosocial Recovery 
• Service Coordination
• Youth Work
• Disability Support Work 
• Direct Care Work

Integrating 14 years of professional skills and experience from the Aged Care, Community Service, Disability and Education sectors, I bring a unique and tailored approach to supporting people.

I strive to facilitate safe spaces for individuals to show up for themselves and to achieve their dreams. I love learning about people and their lives, finding solutions to challenges and laughing as much as possible.

My mantra for work is “Give a man a fish, you feed him for a day; teach him how to fish, you feed him for a lifetime.” 

Jessica E

Role: Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: South-East Melbourne

Qualifications + Specialties

• Certificate III in Aged and Disability care
• Diploma in Business
• Bachelor of Health Science (Current Hiatus)

Jess is a Behaviour Support Practitioner based South East of Melbourne with a genuine passion for helping people live more empowered, independent lives. She aims to create personalised, practical strategies that support the goal of her participants and reduce behaviours of concern in meaningful, respectful ways.

Jess’ approach is grounded in a trauma-informed care, and person-centred practice. She enjoys collaborative process required to improve the quality of life of the participant, their families and support team.

Jess had previously worked within the support team at InsightPBS for two years prior to training as a Practitioner, this has provided her with a vast understanding of backend processes to support her knowledge base.

Kirby M

Role: Liaison Officer
Location: South-East Melbourne

Qualifications + Specialties

• Bachelor of Psychological Science
  La Trobe University, 2015 – 2018
• Bachelor of Psychological Science with Honours
  La Trobe University, 2019
• Master of Educational and Developmental Psychology
  Monash University, 2022 – 2025 (Not yet completed).

Kirby is a Liaison Officer at InsightPBS. Her role is to provide positive behaviour supports to participants who are waiting to be allocated to a more permanent behaviour support practitioner within InsightPBS. The Liaison Officer roles at InsightPBS mean that participants have continuity of care throughout their NDIS plan. She enjoys working with participants and their supports to increase their quality of life. Kirby strongly believes in advocating for participants and their families to access appropriate supports, empowering them to make positive changes in their lives. She holds the belief that every individual is important and can thrive when given the right supports, with a special interest in working with autistic children and children who have experienced trauma.

Sarah M

Role: Advanced Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: Peninsula

Qualifications + Specialties

• Bachelor of Nursing, RMIT University
• Graduate Diploma of Midwifery, ACU
• Grief Counceller, 2008
• Calm Birth Practitioner, 2012

Sarah is a passionate Positive Behaviour Support-trained Advanced Practitioner, with an extensive background in Nursing and Midwifery. She has been working with Insight PBS for multiple years, and has specialised in complex behaviours, dual diagnoses, PDA and Trauma-informed practice.

Sarah is personable, compassionate, dedicated and approachable. Sarah is motivated to provide person-centered support with a ‘team ethos’ that considers the most current, evidence-based care strategies unique to her participants needs.

Octavia G

Role: Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: Peninsula

Qualifications + Specialties

• Masters of Public Health
• Bachelor of Psychology
• Bachelor of Biomedicine
• Diploma of Nursing

I approach my work with a friendly, outgoing attitude that helps people feel comfortable from the moment we meet. I take the time to build genuine rapport, listen actively and communicate clearly so people feel respected, understood and supported. I bring positivity and professionalism to every interaction, creating a safe environment for those I support.

What makes me different is the genuine, people-focused energy I bring to every interaction. I’m naturally warm, friendly and outgoing, which helps me build trust and make individuals feel at easy from the very beginning. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, spending time in nature, hiking and hosting dinners for friends and family.

Rodney A

Role: Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: East Gippsland

Hi there, im Rodney!
I have a strong background in disability support and case management, working for many years in multiple roles across Gippsland. I’m local to Sale and Bairnsdale, and know the specific challenges that participants in the region face.

I love being able to make a difference in people’s lives and I believe that every challenge has a solution. Through my experience, I have honed my skills in providing a person centred approach and having strong advocacy skills. I look forward to working with local participants to help improve their quality of life.

Angela S

Role: Team Leader
Location: Melbourne

Qualifications + Specialties

• Bachelor of Early Childhood Education
• Diploma of Remedial massage
• Certified Infant massage Instructor
• First Aid

About

Angela has been with InsightPBS for 2 years and has enjoyed working across a number of roles including a Behaviour Support Practitioner, Liaison Officer and Team Leader. Angela’s interest lies predominantly in the early years space, working with children diagnosed with ASD and ADHD and extends to supporting families with their wellbeing and parenting capacity. Angela loves not only working with her participants, but also being able to mentor and foster the professional development and confidence of new practitioners to the industry.

Monika D

Role: Behaviour Support Practitioner
Location: South-East Melbourne

Qualifications + Specialties

• Bachelor of Paramedicine
• Certificate- engaging in positive behaviour support practices
• Mental Health Victoria – Psychosocial learning hub program

Monika is known for her approachability, patience, and attention to detail.
She believes in working collaboratively with the entire support network to enhance the quality of life of those she works with.

Monika has a background in Disability Support Work, with a specialisation in children with complex disabilities.
She is passionate about empowering individuals to explore alternative communication methods, acknowledging that all behaviors are a means of communication.