Deborah Friend
Accredited Mental Health Social Worker
Qualifications: Bachelor of Social Work, Master of Social Work (Advanced Practice), Accredited Mental Health Social Worker
6 Main Areas of Expertise
- Anxiety and Depression
- Grief and Loss
- Adjustment to Diagnosis and Chronic Health
- Domestic Violence
- Carer and Family Support
- Workplace Stress
Qualifications and Memberships
Bachelor of Social Work
Master of Social Work (Advanced Practice)
Accredited Mental Health Social Worker
Member of the Australian Association of Social Workers
Summary of Education and Employment
Deborah, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with 20+ years of experience in the field, specialises in Public Hospitals and Community Health Centres. Her work includes supporting clients in specialist teams (Oncology, MFMU, Renal Units, and Statewide Infant Hearing Service) and providing Generalist counselling for diverse adults. With interventions covering grief, diagnosis adjustment, relationship challenges, and more, Deborah brings previous management experience and a passion for addressing workplace stressors. Her private sector work involves supporting clients through EAP referrals and Mental Health plans.
Drawing from a wealth of lived experience, Deborah is eager to assist with relocation, mobility, parenting, and neurodiversity, particularly for those with a faith perspective. Her commitment extends to working with First Nations people and those of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Backgrounds, reflecting a passion for social justice and equity. She adopts a respectful, holistic, and flexible approach.
“Every individual is of great worth. It is my privilege to share in their unique life journey.”
Flexibility in therapeutic approaches: I have found Strengths-Based, Narrative, System, ACT, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Solution-Focused, and Trauma-Informed approaches to be particularly helpful, but I lean towards an eclectic and flexible approach to interventions.