Avril Saunders is an Australian Counselling Association (ACA - Level 2) accredited counsellor with a deep passion for supporting young people through the challenges and complexities of adolescence. As the Operations Manager of jupiter - space to talk since November 2023, she leads the team in providing free and confidential counselling, running impactful programs, and fostering strong community connections. With a background in graphic design, Avril brings creativity into the counselling space, using innovative approaches and a touch of fun to build strong connections.
Outside of work, Avril finds joy in mindfully diving through waves and expressing herself through drawing.
Nicole (Nic) is an Australian Counselling Association (ACA - Level 1) accredited counsellor who embraces life's challenges by drawing on the wisdom of experience.
She uses an empathetic and supportive approach to help young people manage their problems more effectively while developing unused resources and missed opportunities.
Nic is open-minded and understanding, with a passion for communication. She encourages you to 'Talk it out' and embrace your inner strength, resources, and potential.
Having personally experienced anxiety, depression, and trauma, Nic helps others become better at helping themselves in daily life.
Warm, nurturing, and compassionate, Nic ensures you feel fully supported, empowered, and capable throughout the counselling process.
She takes a person-centred, solution-focused, and strengths-based approach. In her sessions, expect to breathe deeply with mindfulness and believe in yourself!
Tracy has been in the Health, Fitness, and Wellness industry for over 25 years, driven by her lifelong love of sport and a passion for staying fit and healthy. She began her career as a fitness instructor and personal trainer, running her own gym for more than 15 years. Recently, Tracy shifted her professional focus to mental health and well-being, blending her expertise in fitness with a deeper commitment to supporting overall wellness.
At Jupiter - Space to Talk, Tracy serves as a Counsellor and Personal Trainer within the Recreation and Well-Being Program. As an ACA (Level 2) accredited counsellor, she promotes a holistic approach to health, using exercise and nutrition to help young people manage anxiety, stress, depression, and relationships. By integrating recreation and movement into preventative mental health care, Tracy empowers young people to improve their physical well-being, build confidence, and reduce stress—all while having fun.
Jan Allen has been a dedicated counsellor since 2017 and is a Level 1 member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). With a wealth of life experience and a deep understanding of mental health challenges, she is passionate about supporting young people on their journey toward well-being.
Jan is well-traveled and spent 10 years living in Hawaii, where she attended Hawaii Pacific University. However, her roots run deep in the Hunter region, having grown up in Maitland and Seaham. Her connection to the local community fuels her commitment to helping young people navigate life's challenges, knowing firsthand the importance of accessible mental health support.
Drawing from her own lived experience, Jan brings warmth, empathy, and a practical approach to her counselling. She primarily utilizes person-centred and solution-focused techniques, creating a safe and supportive space where young people feel heard, valued, and empowered to take positive steps forward.
Karen has been integral to jupiter since 2020. Beginning as a dedicated volunteer, she now serves as the Administration Manager, playing a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of our organisation. Leveraging her background as a counselling student, Karen brings a wealth of industry knowledge to her role, enriching our team with empathy and professionalism. She extends her support to all our practitioners, making her an invaluable asset to jupiter's community.
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