Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change

In this episode, we sit down with author Luna Westish for aconversation that moves gently through creativity, identity, and the courage it takes to make art that feels real in a world that often rewards sameness. Together, we explore the grounding power of storytelling, the lessons learntfrom traveling abroad.  Luna shares how writing became both a refuge and a form ofresistance, offering insights into character‑building, imaginative play, and the quiet rituals that keep her connected to her inner world. The episode is a companion for anyone navigating the pressure to be “on,” and it extends aninvitation that encourage listeners to explore the power of creativity and their own inner world.Luna Westish is a pen name for a traveling, coffee‑drinking,politically active writer currently exploring the world. Beyond fiction, Luna writes non‑fiction articles and essays on cults, chronic illness, business, and sustainability — and if you’d like to read more of their writing, you’re warmly invited to click the link below.https://lunawestish.wordpress.com/Be My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, please complete the form on my website - https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/podcasts/ About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength. For more information:⁠⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠⁠ 🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

This episode, we’re joined by Ben Drysdale — a singer‑songwriter whose music is as real and vulnerable as the life behind it. Ben is a father, a storyteller, and an artist who openly shares his journey with ADHD, a story that featured on ABC’s Four Corners. His honesty has resonated deeply with audiences across Australia. Alongside his music, Ben runs songwriting workshops that help people tap into their creativity, express their truth, and turn lived experience into art. Whether you’re navigating big emotions, searching for your voice, or simply love authentic Australian music, Ben brings a rare mix of warmth, insight, and courage. Tune in for a conversation that will stay with you long after the episode ends. Follow Ben's music and social media: https://linktr.ee/bendrysdalemusic Sign up for a free 'Elements of Songwriting' beginner Zoom session with Ben: https://events.humanitix.com/host/songwriting-for-non-songwriters More info on Songwriting for Non-Songwriters: https://linktr.ee/songwriting4nonsongwritersBe My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, please complete the form on my website - https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/mental-health-matters-voices-of-change-podcasts/ About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength. For more information:⁠⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠⁠ 🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

Today on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change,we’re joined by Michelle Steiner — a woman who has spent her life proving that an invisible disability does not define her limits. From a young age, Michelle was told she wouldn’t make it to college, earn a degree, get published, or build the career she dreamed of. She went on to do every one of those things.Michelle graduated from Slippery Rock University with abachelor’s degree in Community Programming for Americans with Disabilities, and she has become a powerful advocate through her writing. Her work has appeared in The Mighty, the Non‑Verbal Learning Project, the Dyscalculia Blog, TheReluctant Spoonie, Kalopina Collective, Imagine the World as One Magazine, and Word Gathering. Her photography has also been featured in Word Gathering Independent and Work Ready.Beyond her creative work, Michelle serves as a paraeducator,supporting students with disabilities in their daily learning — a role that reflects both her compassion and her lived experience. She brings insight, resilience, and a deep commitment to inclusion into everything she does.Michelle lives in Pennsylvania and she begins our interviewtalking about the effects of bullying and the importance of finding your own tribe – those amazing people who support you no matter what. Discover more about Michelle’s amazing here:https://www.michellesmission.com/Be My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental HealthMatters: Voices of Change, please complete the form on my website - https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/podcasts/ About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength. For more information:⁠⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠⁠ 🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

Nicole Gammie is a gifted textile artist whose delicate mastery of bobbin lace and embroidery brings timeless traditions into vibrant contemporary focus. Based in Victoria, Nicole teaches workshops that invite participants of all skill levels to explore the meditative beauty of lacemakingand hand stitching. Her creations blend precision with poetic detail, often transforming thread into miniature landscapes of emotion and memory. With a gentle teaching style and deep reverence for craft, Nicole fosters creativity, mindfulness, and connection through every loop and stitch to better support her mental well-being and that of others.Discover Nicole's amazing work on her website:https://www.nicolegammiedesigns.com.au/Be My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental HealthMatters: Voices of Change, please complete the form on my website - https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/podcasts/ About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces wherecreativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength. For more information:⁠⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠⁠ 🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

Today on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, I’m joined by the remarkable Greg Gould — a singer, songwriter, and storyteller whose voice carries both power and deep emotional truth. Greg’s music has a raw authenticity and extraordinary vocal range captured hearts across the country.Since then, Greg has built a career anchored in honesty, vulnerability, and using music as a bridge toward healing and human connection. His newest release, “All That Glitters,” a stunning collaboration with Karise Eden, continues that legacy with a soulful, heartfelt look at what truly matters beneath the surface.Greg’s courage in sharing his story, both on and off the stage, has made him a powerful advocate for mental health and a voice of hope for so many navigating their own journeys.Discover Greg's amazing work here:Greg Gould Singer SongwriterBe My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, please complete the form on my website - https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/podcasts/ About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength. For more information:⁠⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠⁠ 🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

In this episode of Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, we sit down with Sam Mitchell—the inspiring creator of Autism Rocks and Rolls.Discover more about Sam's amazing work here - https://autismrocksandrolls.com/ Sam is a powerful advocate and storyteller who uses his platform to challenge stereotypes, celebrate neurodiversity, and share what life on the autism spectrum is really like. Through honesty, humour, and a deep commitment to breaking stigma, he’s built a global community where autistic voices are heard, valued, and uplifted.Join us as Sam opens up about his journey, his advocacy, and the change he hopes to spark in a world that’s still learning how to listen.Be My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, please complete the form on my website - https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/podcasts/ About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength. For more information:⁠⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠⁠ 🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

Today on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, I’m joined by country and rock singer–songwriter James Keith, an artist whose music carries a rare kind of optimism, gratitude and a genuine connection to life. James has a gift for writing songs that don’t shy away from life’s challenges, yet somehow leave you feeling lighter, steadier, and more connected to hope. His storytelling reminds us that music can be a powerful companion on the hard days and a spark of joy on the good ones — a reminder that we’re never walking this road alone.Discover James amazing music here - https://www.jameskeith.au/ Be My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, please complete the form on my website - https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/podcasts/ About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength. For more information:⁠⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠⁠ 🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

On today’s episode of Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, we’re joined by Sharon Grocott, CEO of WayAhead and a passionate advocate for mental health reform. Sharon brings a deeply personal lens to her work, shaped by her lived experience navigating family mental health challenges and her own breast cancer journey.With decades of leadership in social services and a fierce commitment to systemic change, Sharon is raising awareness about the urgent need for trauma‑informed, compassionate care from the medical industry — especially for those in crisis. Her voice is one of empathy, insight, and action, and we’re honoured to share her story.Discover more:Website: https://wayahead.org.auBe My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental HealthMatters: Voices of Change, please comment and Susan will be in touch.About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces wherecreativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength.For more information:⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

Today on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, I’m joined by emerging singer–songwriter MUKI, an artist whose work is shaped by honesty, dedication, and a deep commitment to growth. In this conversation, we explore how mental health weaves its way into his songwriting process, influencing the emotional depth behind tracks like “Gasoline” and “Reflections.”MUKI opens up about the perseverance and resilience it takes to create from a place of truth—how music becomes both an outlet and a mirror, helping him navigate the harder moments while offering something real and relatable to listeners. His journey is a powerful reminder that creativity and healing often walk side by side.Discover MUKI's amazing sounds here:Spotify BandcampYouTubeInstagram Tik TokBe My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, please complete the form on my website - https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/podcasts/ About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength. For more information:⁠⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠⁠ 🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

I’m delighted to share a very special interview with Leanne Sheargold from Puregold Holistic Wellbeing.Leanne brings a wealth of wisdom and compassion to her work, guiding people toward balance and vitality through holistic practices that nurture both body and spirit. In our conversation, we dive into her journey from trauma and abuse and her healing journey; from the philosophy behind Puregold Holistic Wellbeing, and the ways she helps others reconnect with their inner strength and wellbeing.This episode is all about embracing holistic health, finding joy in self-discovery, and learning how small, mindful practices can create profound change. So, settle in, and let’s step into this inspiring dialogue with Leanne Sheargold. Discover more:https://www.puregoldholisticwellbeing.com/  Be My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, please comment and Susan will be in touch. About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength. For more information:⁠⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠⁠ 🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

This week on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, I’m joined by the luminous Chloe Violette—singer, songwriter, and the creative force behind the stunning debut album Colourfast.Chloe brings a rare blend of honesty, vulnerability, and artistic courage to her music, weaving stories that sit right at the intersection of emotion, identity, and lived experience. Her new album is a powerful first offering, rich with colour, texture, and truth, and I’m so excited to share her voice and her journey with you.Search 'Chloe Violette Singer Songerwriter' or discover more about Chloe's work here - Chloe Violette Be My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental HealthMatters: Voices of Change, please complete the form on my website - https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/podcasts/ About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength. For more information:⁠⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠⁠ 🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

I’m honoured to introduce a guest whose advocacy isas bold as it is compassionate. Saranna Schultz is a powerful voice for disability rights, a person living with cerebral palsy, and a passionate advocate with CP Active—a movement led by people with lived experience, working to create systemic change and amplify disabled voices across Australia.Saranna brings insight, humour, and fierce determination toevery conversation. Whether she’s speaking on access, representation, or the everyday realities of living with CP, she reminds us that advocacy isn’t just policy—it’s personal, relational, and deeply human.We’ll be talking about identity, inclusion, and what itmeans to lead with lived experience. So settle in, and let’s listen deeply.Reach out to Saranna - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/saranna-schultz/ CP Active Champions - https://cerebralpalsy.org.au/news-stories/cpactive-champions-meet-key-politician-to-step-up-blaze-the-trail-campaign/CP Active News - https://cpactive.org.au/news/ Be My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental HealthMatters: Voices of Change, please comment and Susan will be in touch. About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces wherecreativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength. For more information:⁠⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠⁠ 🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

Today, my guest is Jason Kenner from Melbourne Music Therapy, a passionate practitioner who brings rhythm, melody, and creativity into the heart of healing.Jason has dedicated his work to showing how music can open doors to emotional expression, resilience, and connection—especially for those navigating mental health challenges. From clinical practice to community outreach, he’s helping people discover how sound and song can transform lives.We’ll be exploring the science, the stories, and the soul behind music therapy, and how it can empower individuals to find their voice and reclaim their sense of self. So, stay tuned—this conversation promises to be both inspiring and deeply resonant. Melbourne Music Therapy📞 Phone: +61 3 8595 3005🌐 Website: melbournemusictherapy.com/Australian Music Therapy Association (AMTA) – thenational governing body for music therapy in Australia🌐 Website: austmta.org.auBe My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental HealthMatters: Voices of Change, please comment and Susan will be in touch. About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces wherecreativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength. For more information:⁠⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠⁠ 🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

Today we meet Sally-Ann Charnock, who guides us through holistic counselling and women’s workshops designed to nurture resilience and self‑discovery. She shares how you can find pathways through grief, drawing from her own journey of healing after the loss of her son, Guy. Her work shows you that even in the deepest pain, there is room for growth, connection, and gentle restoration.You are invited to explore tools, conversations, and practices that help you reclaim your inner wisdom, strengthen your community, and embrace the change you want to see in the world.Reach out to Sally-Ann here - sallyanncharnock@gmail Be My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, please comment and Susan will be in touch. About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength.For more information:⁠⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠⁠🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

Dr. Julie M. Lane, survivor, educator, scholar, musician, and advocate, is launching two innovative collectives this March: the Empowered Parent Collective and the Redeemed Collective. Each initiative offers intentional guidance, community, and practical resources, addressing the specific needs of two distinct audiences while reflecting Dr. Lane’s lifelong commitment to empowerment, resilience, and informed action.“Over the course of my careers and personal journey, I have seen the profound effect that access to knowledge, connection, and intentional support can have,” said Dr. Lane. “Both of these collectives are designed to create spaces where individuals can engage, learn, and grow in ways that meet their unique challenges and aspirations.”Empowered Parent CollectiveThe Empowered Parent Collective expands the mission of the Empowered Parent Network, providing parents of children with disabilities the knowledge, tools, and community needed to navigate the special education system with confidence.Designed for parents and educators facing the complexities of special education, the collective offers workshops, webinars, one-on-one consultations, and peer support networks. These services are structured to equip families with the information, advocacy skills, and confidence needed to support children with disabilities effectively.With a focus on practical guidance and local impact, the Empowered Parent Network connects families nationwide to resources, experts, and community networks that support inclusive education and informed decision-making.Redeemed CollectiveThe Redeemed Collective grows out of Julie’s storytelling and advocacy work through her social platforms Redeem Thyself and 7 Pedals, as well as the Redeeming Stories podcast. Through these channels, she shares her journey as a professional harpist and her lived experience navigating trauma and abuse; stories that have resonated with a rapidly growing audience.Launching in March 2026, the Redeemed Collective is a digital community dedicated to the healing and empowerment of professional women who have experienced trauma or abuse. Through structured discussions, reflective exercises, storytelling, the arts, and peer support, the collective offers a private, intentional space where members can process experiences, reclaim their voices, and cultivate resilience. The platform encourages thoughtful reflection and authentic connection, emphasizing self-compassion, personal growth, and meaningful transformation for women seeking both support and empowerment as they navigate their professional and personal lives.Discover more about these amazing projects:https://www.juliemlane.com/redeem-thyselfhttps://www.7pedals.com/Be My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, please complete the form on my website - https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/podcasts/ About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces wherecreativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength. For more information:⁠⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠⁠ 🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

Welcome to today’s episode of Mental Health Matters—wherecreativity meets heart, and stories unfold through art, music, and healing. I’m thrilled to be joined by a truly inspiring guest: Simone Keane, singer-songwriter, educator, and creative force from Albany, Western Australia.Simone’s music is rich with storytelling and emotionaldepth, weaving together folk, blues, and poetic lyricism that speaks to the soul. Beyond the stage, she’s a passionate advocate for community arts and education, empowering others to find their voice through songwriting andperformance.In today’s conversation, we explore Simone’s creativejourney, her connection to place and people, and how music can be a powerful tool for healing and resilience. Whether you’re an artist, a therapist, or simply someone who finds comfort in melody, this interview is sure to resonate.So grab a cuppa, settle in, and let’s dive into the world ofSimone Keane as she tells us all about her latest song, Come Back.Discover Simone's work here -https://simonekeane.com/ Be My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental HealthMatters: Voices of Change, please comment and Susan will be in touch.About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength.For more information:⁠⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠⁠🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

Joining me is Laura Pettenuzzo, a passionate Cerebral Palsy advocate and gifted writer whose voice is reshaping how we understand disability, identity, and mental health. Laura brings a fierce commitment to inclusion and emotional honesty, weaving her personal journey with broader advocacy for systemic change. Her work challenges stereotypes, celebrates neurodiversity, and invites us to listen more deeply to stories that often go unheard.In this episode, we’ll explore the intersections of disability and mental health, the emotional toll of navigating ableism, and the healing power of storytelling. Laura’s insights are bold, tender, and refreshingly real—and I can’t wait for you to hear them. Laura is a plain language and Easy Read content writer, as well as a passionate disability advocate. Her opinion pieces have been published in leading outlets including The Age, SBS Voices, ABC Everyday, and The Guardian.Laura serves as a member of the minister‑appointed Victorian Disability Advisory Council, and in 2023 and she was honoured to judge the Melbourne Press Club’s Quill Award for Reporting on Disability.Beyond writing and advocacy, Laura volunteers with Kookaburra Kids and the Satellite Foundation, supporting young carers and children of parents living with mental illness (COPMI). Her work is driven by a commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and amplifying the voices of lived experience. Discover more about Laura’s work here:https://www.instagram.com/thisgirl_writes/?hl=enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-pettenuzzo-905699114/?originalSubdomain=auhttps://laurasadventuresinliterature.wordpress.com/https://allforaccess.com.au/Be My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, please comment and Susan will be in touch. About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength.For more information:https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/🛑 Disclaimer: This video does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

Leah Harding is a trauma survivor who was born into a cult and has become a passionate aged care advocate. Her interview is a celebration of strength, courage and resilience, sharing her journey and the wisdom she has gained along the way. If you need support, please reach out to Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. Want to share your own story? Be a Guest and add your voice to the conversation. Leave a comment below and Susan will be in touch.Learn more about creative healing and resources at Mindful Arts Therapy, where art and storytelling are used to empower, support and inspire.https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/ 🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

Kerri-Anne is a naturopath and spiritual healer dedicated to supporting women through the physical, mental, and emotional challenges of midlife, especially perimenopause. She blends evidence-based natural medicine, nutrition, and energy healing to help women find balance, vitality, and empowerment in their health. Inspired by her own healing journey, Kerri-Anne believes every woman deserves to feel heard, supported, and in control of her wellbeing.Connect with her here: https://www.facebook.com/kerrianneholistichealer/Be My Guest:If you’re interested in being a guest on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, please comment and Susan will be in touch. About Mindful Arts Therapy:Mindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength.For more information:https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/ 🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

In this inspiring episode, host Susan Day speaks with Aislinn Sharp, musician, songwriter, and proud R U OK? Day Ambassador. Aislinn blends her passion for music with her commitment to mental health advocacy, using her voice and creativity to spark conversations that matter. Through her songs and community work, she encourages people to check in with one another, reminding us that a simple question—“Are you OK?”—can change a life.This conversation is released in recognition of R U OK? Day 2025, held on Thursday, 11 September. Together, Susan and Aislinn explore the healing power of music, the importance of connection, and the role of creative expression in breaking down stigma around mental health.Listeners will hear:Aislinn’s journey as a musician and mental health advocateHow R U OK? Day empowers communities to start meaningful conversationsThe ways music can foster resilience, hope, and belongingThis episode is both uplifting and practical, showing how creativity and compassion can unite to support mental wellbeing.Discover Aislinn's music here - https://www.youtube.com/user/AislinnSharp/videosFollow Aislinn on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/AislinnSharp/Be a GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, please comment and Susan will be in touch. About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength.For more information:https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/ 🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

In this special episode, host Susan Day speaks with Anne Tudor OAM, writer, advocate, and dementia awareness champion. Anne is widely recognized for her groundbreaking work in storytelling and community engagement, sharing her lived experience of dementia alongside her late partner, Edie Mayhew. Their journey was not only marked by courage and honesty, but also by the gentle presence of Melvin, Edie’s loyal dog, whose companionship brought comfort and joy throughout their advocacy and daily life.This conversation is released in recognition of Dementia Action Week 2025, held from 15–21 September. Together, Susan and Anne explore the importance of empathy, connection, and community in supporting people living with dementia and their families. Anne’s insights highlight how creativity, honesty, and advocacy—often enriched by the small but powerful bonds of animals like Melvin—can transform the way society understands dementia, ensuring that no one has to face it alone.Listeners will hear:Anne’s journey as a writer and advocate for dementia awarenessReflections on living well with dementia and the power of storytellingHow Dementia Action Week fosters community support and challenges stigmaThe role of companionship, including Melvin’s presence, in nurturing resilience and hopeThis episode is both deeply personal and profoundly hopeful, reminding us that change begins with listening and sharing voices of lived experience.Be a GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, please comment and Susan will be in touch. About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength.For more information:https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/ 🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

In this heartfelt conversation, host Susan Day sits down with psychologist Jordan Whitehead, whose work specializes in grief counselling and supporting women through life’s most challenging transitions. Together, they explore the tender realities of loss, the unique ways women experience and process grief, and the empowering strategies that can help transform pain into resilience.Listeners will gain insight into:The emotional and psychological impact of grief on womenPractical tools for navigating loss with compassion and strengthHow community, creativity, and therapy can foster healing and hopeJordan’s expertise and gentle wisdom shine through, offering both validation and guidance for anyone walking the path of grief. This episode is a reminder that while loss is deeply personal, healing can be collective — and that women’s voices in grief deserve to be heard, honoured, and uplifted.Discover more:Website: https://www.jordanwhiteheadpsych.com.auBe My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, please comment and Susan will be in touch.About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma-informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength.For more information:https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

In this episode of Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, Susan sits down with Terri Pollock and Gillian Mercer to explore how creativity can inspire healing, connection, and change. Together, they share stories and insights that highlight the transformative role art plays in our lives and communities.Discover more:Terri Pollock Art: https://www.terripollockart.com/Creative Australia: https://creative.gov.au/Be My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental HealthMatters: Voices of Change, please comment and Susan will be in touch.About Mindful Arts Therapy Mindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces wherecreativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength.For more information:⁠⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠⁠🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

In this episode, Susan speaks with Tony Macer from the Maryborough Volunteer Resource Group. Tony shares insights into the challenges facing local not‑for‑profits, the exciting outcomes of recent forums and training, and how the MVRG is working to ensure volunteering remains a vibrant and sustainable part of community life in the Central Goldfields.The Maryborough Volunteer Resource Group (MVRG), run entirely by volunteers, has become a leading organisation in strengthening and supporting community groups across the Central Goldfields Shire. Its mission includes building a shire‑wide network of support for not‑for‑profit organisations, promoting volunteering to attract new participants, and addressing rising loneliness and social isolation to improve mental and physical health outcomes. A recent survey of local groups revealed declining trends consistent with the 2023 National Volunteer Strategy, highlighting the urgent need for action.In response, the MVRG hosted the Changing Face of Volunteering forum in May 2024, bringing together around 100 participants to shape new directions and inform the Council’s Volunteer Strategy. This pivotal event sparked momentum, with many community groups engaging in ongoing meetings to set priorities for 2025. In February 2025, the cohort undertook extensive training with FRRR through the Investing in Rural Community Futures program, generating optimism and renewed energy for the sustainability of volunteering in the region.Discover more:Website: https://maryboroughvolunteers.org.au/Be My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental HealthMatters: Voices of Change, please comment and Susan will be in touch.About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces wherecreativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength.For more information:⁠⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠⁠🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support. 

Welcome to Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, the podcast where we explore the stories, insights, and practices that help us build emotionally safe and empowering lives. I’m your host, Susan Day, and today we’re diving into a timely conversation about the holiday season.Christmas can be a season of joy, but it can also bring stress, pressure, and emotional challenges. To help us unpack the mental health impacts of this time of year, I’m joined by psychologist Jordan Whitehead. Together, we’ll explore why it’s so important to slow down, take it easy, and embrace gratitude as a grounding practice.This episode is all about finding balance—recognizing the pressures we face, while also creating space for kindness, reflection, and self-care. Jordan brings thoughtful expertise and practical strategies that can help us navigate the holidays with more peace and presence.So settle in, and let’s begin this conversation on how we can care for our mental health during Christmas, and discover the power of gratitude in shaping a gentler, more joyful season.Discover more about Jordan's work here:https://www.jordanwhiteheadpsych.com.au/Be My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, please comment and Susan will be in touch. About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength. For more information:⁠⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠⁠ 🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

In today’s episode, we step into the paddock — both literally and emotionally — with Natasha Whitwell, founder of Seen and Herd Equine Assisted Therapy. Natasha shares how horses, with their intuitive presence and gentle strength, can guide us toward healing, emotional regulation, and personal growth.From her tranquil base in Kulnura, NSW, Natasha offers a unique therapeutic approach that blends counselling with the wisdom of horses. She creates safe spaces for people of all ages to reconnect with themselves and discover new pathways to wellbeing.Discover more:Website: https://www.seenandherd.com.auFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/seenandherdaustraliaBe My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental HealthMatters: Voices of Change, please comment and Susan will be in touch.About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces wherecreativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength.For more information:⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠🛑 Disclaimer: This episode does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Please consult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

Today we share a heartfelt conversation with Amanda Cops from Mental Health Foundation Australia. Amanda’s lived experience brings depth and authenticity to her advocacy, and her leadership in coordinating peer support groups across the country is extraordinary.With lived experience of bipolar disorder, Amanda shows the power of community care. She leads 34 online peer support groups nationwide, creating safe, supportive spaces for Australians to connect, heal, and thrive.Mental Health Foundation Australia (MHFA) was founded in 1930 and is the oldest community-based mental health organisation in the country. For 94 years, MHFA has provided vital education and support services to Australians from all walks of life.To learn more or get involved: Website: https://www.mhfa.org.au Phone: 1300 643 287Want to be a guest on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change?Please reach out or leave a comment. Susan will be in touch.Discover more about Mindful Arts Therapy: https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/

In this episode, Susan speaks with Jackie Lindsay — widely known as Anxiety Girl — about her journey through severe anxiety and panic attacks, and how she found peace, resilience, and a voice of change in mental health advocacy.Jackie brings a powerful and relatable voice to conversations about mental health. After years of living with intense anxiety and panic — episodes so overwhelming they impacted every part of her life — she now shares her story to help others feel seen, supported, and empowered.Discover more:Website: https://www.anxietygirl.comInstagram: @anxietygirlBe My GuestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental HealthMatters: Voices of Change, please comment and Susan will be in touch. About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces wherecreativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informedpractice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages buildresilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength.For more information:⁠https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/⁠🛑 Disclaimer: Thisvideo does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Pleaseconsult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.

Lou Chalmer is a former Environmental Scientist who, after facing her own mental and physical health challenges, found a new path as an Integrative Natural Medicine Practitioner and Counsellor. Today, she works with people from all walks of life, supporting those with complex trauma and chronic illness to reclaim their health and wellbeing. She also shares her knowledge and passion through writing — in online and print publications, as well as in her book — making complex health topics accessible and inspiring for everyone.In this episode, Lou explores how stress and trauma are deeply connected to physical health, often contributing to issues that extend beyond emotional wellbeing. Symptoms of stress, trauma, and burnout can manifest not only in mood and energy levels but also in physical signs such as fatigue, inflammation, and changes detectable in bloodwork. Current research highlights the role genetics can play in shaping vulnerability to chronic mental and physical health conditions, showing that inherited factors may influence how our bodies respond to stress.Discover moreWebsite: https://www.ecological-nutrition.com/Follow: @louchalmerBe My guestIf you’re interested in being a guest on Mental Health Matters: Voices of Change, please comment and Susan will be in touch.About Mindful Arts TherapyMindful Arts Therapy creates safe, empowering spaces where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Through art, reflection, and trauma‑informed practice, it supports mental health by helping people of all ages build resilience, express emotions, and reconnect with their inner strength.For more information:https://mindfulartstherapy.com.au/ 🛑 Disclaimer: Thisvideo does not replace professional mental or physical health care. Pleaseconsult a qualified therapist or medical practitioner for personalized support.