My name is Nari, and I am a Mental Health Peer Support Worker with lived experience of recovery from mental illness, addiction, family and domestic violence and persistent pain. These experiences have shaped my understanding of the challenges that recovery can present, while also reinforcing my belief that recovery, growth and meaningful change are possible.
Before entering the mental health sector, I worked as a fully registered teacher in Queensland. Through my teaching career, I developed strong skills in communication, active listening, relationship building, advocacy, goal setting and supporting people from diverse backgrounds. These skills now underpin my work as a peer support worker, enabling me to create safe and respectful spaces where people feel heard, valued and empowered.
My practice is guided by recovery-oriented, trauma-informed and strengths-based principles. I believe that every person is the expert in their own life and has the capacity to build on their strengths, develop resilience and work towards goals that are meaningful to them. My role is not to direct your recovery journey, but to walk alongside you, offering understanding, encouragement and support as you move towards the life you want to create.
At Russell’s Recovery, I am committed to fostering hope, connection, self-determination and community inclusion, recognising that recovery is a personal journey and that everyone deserves the opportunity to live a meaningful and fulfilling life.