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ABOUT ME, MICHELE GOWER

Mental Health Youth Central Coast Counsellor Coach Chaplain Michele Gower Lighthouse Youth Support Anxiety Depression

Hi, I'm Michele, a Counsellor and Mental Health Coach dedicated to empowering youth and young adults on their journey towards positive mental health and wellbeing, personal growth, confidence in their identity and becoming the best version of themselves.

I work with adolescents in my private practice, as well as working with Wesley Mission to support teens aged 12-18 who have a range of mental health issues and diagnosis', such as ADHD, ASD, ODD, complex trauma, a history of abuse and neglect, anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, a history of assaultive behviour, attachment disorders, school refusal and other issues.

I combine lived experience, 24 years of parenting four children, (including a son with Autism & ADHD), with my professional expertise and qualifications, to help youth and young adults step out into the world with confidence, purpose and faith. 

As a lifelong learner, I am passionate about continuous study and growth. I have honed a unique and personal approach that combines evidence-based techniques, faith and my own insights and experiences which allows me to support each individual in a way that serves them best. I recognise that everyone's journey is unique. By creating a safe and supportive space, I encourage open and honest conversations that foster self-discovery, self-acceptance, and positive change.

MY SPECIALITY IS HELPING YOUNG PEOPLE THRIVE

Over the years I've been fortunate to support many young people to overcome their personal challenges. Just some examples of the transformations I've beeen honoured to be a part of in the lives of young people are: from being bullied to becoming a school leader, from suicidal thoughts to successfully auditioning for a TV show, from being anxious in every day settings to winning an award and receiving it publicly, from never voicing an opinion to trying out for school Captaincy. I think young people are amazing and often have the ability to achieve so  much more than what they currently believe.

My goal is to empower youth and young adults to navigate life's challenges, overcome self-doubt, and unlock their full potential.  I work with them to develop practical strategies, foster resilience, and cultivate a positive mindset. I am here to guide them on their journey of personal growth and well-being, providing the support they need to thrive and find their own unique path to success and fulfillment. 

I truly believe, that given the right support, everyone has the capacity to thrive.

MY EXPERIENCE

  • Child Protection Youth Carer - Welsey Mission (OOHC DCJ STEP Program for youth with high and complex needs)
  • Counsellor & Family Support Coach - Hope Family Cottage
  • Senior Family Contact Supervisor -  Hope Family Cottage
  • Youth Coach - Max Potential Youth Development Program (several years, multiple year 11 students inc. two with additional needs)
  • Youth Mentor - Youth Frontiers Youth Development Program (several years, multiple year 9 students)
  • Youth Mentor - IBM P-Tech STEM Mentoring Program (Year 9 students)
  • Youth Minister & Founder of 'Youth in Action' (A Community Youth Outreach Program) - Our Lady of the Rosary, Wyoming
  • Developer of Authentically Autism (a Parent Coaching Program for parents raising a child with Autism)
  • Founder of Women on a Mission (an initiative which brings women together to support other women in crisis)
  • 24 years of parenting four children, including parenting a child with Autism & ADHD

MY PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

FORMAL STUDY, CERTIFICATION & ACCREDITATION

  • Diploma of Counselling - AIFC
  • Diploma of Youth & Community Work (Christian) - Fusion Aust
  • Certificate in Christian Coaching - AIFC
  • Cert IV in Business - Mission Australia
  • Cert IV in Chaplaincy & Pastoral Care (in progress) - AIFC
  • Cert IV in Mental Health (in progress) - TAFE
  • Responding to Self-Harm and Suicidality - NSW DCJ
  • Healing from Trauma - NSW DJC
  • Positive Behaviour Support - NSW DCJ
  • PART Certification (Predict, Assess, & Respond to Aggressive & Challenging Behaviour) - MTU
  • Youth Mental Health First Aid Certificate
  • St John First Aid Certificate
  • Current Working with Children Check
  • Current NSW Police Check

ADDITIONAL STUDY

  • Trauma Informed Care
  • Understanding Adolescence
  • Work effectively with young people
  • Brain Development & Trauma
  • Trauma Resolution & Healing
  • Intergenerational Trauma
  • Eating Disorders
  • Attachment Disorder
  • Self Awareness
  • Advocacy
  • Wellbeing and Emotional Wellness when working with Complex Trauma

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

  • Australian and New Zealand Mental Health Association
  • Australian Christian Mentoring Network
  • Institute of Community Directors
  • Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect)
  • Blue Knot Foundation

"Start being brave about everything"
Saint Catherine of Siena

I have a deep passion for supporting Adolescents, Teens, Youth, Young Adults and their families. I operate from my Catholic values with a strengths-based approach to help you overcome challenges, form your own identity and foster a positive mindset which will help you not only enjoy the 'now', but look forward to the future.  I am based on the beautiful Central Coast of NSW. Please reach out if you think I can be of help to yourself, a friend or a family member.

NDIS support Youth Mental health Young adults teenager Catholic Christian Michelle Gower Michele Gower Central Coast NSW

Email Lighthouse Youth Support
54 HILLS STREET
NORTH GOSFORD, NSW, 2250

Michele Gower | Youth Mental Health Support | Coaching Mentoring Counselling Chaplaincy | Catholic | Central Coast NSW Australia

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