Meet our founder

Hi, I’m Jess— a trauma-informed social worker, clinical supervisor, and PhD candidate with over a decade of diverse experience supporting individuals through some of life’s most complex and vulnerable moments.

My practice is grounded in compassion, cultural safety, and evidence-based approaches. I specialise in working with individuals impacted by trauma, family and domestic violence, addiction, and mental health challenges. I’m trained in a range of therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, DBT, ACT, CBT, and mindfulness-based therapies, and I tailor my approach to meet each person where they’re at — with empathy, respect, and transparency.

With a Master of Social Work, a background in psychological science, and ongoing PhD studies, I bring both academic rigour and deep empathy to my work.

My doctoral research is grounded in truth-telling and healing. It explores the impact of violence, trauma, and systemic oppression experienced by Larrakia women — including the intergenerational effects of colonisation, racially discriminatory policies, and disproportionate exposure to domestic and family violence and sexual abuse. At its core, this research also honours the strength, survival, and resistance of Larrakia women in the face of ongoing adversity. This work informs my practice and fuels my commitment to culturally safe and empowering support for First Nations women and all who have experienced harm.

At the heart of my practice is a simple philosophy: everyone deserves to feel safe, seen, and supported as they heal and grow.

Jess Maris