Reach LogoThe Black Dog Institute, in partnership with MLC Community Foundation, is establishing support groups in communities across NSW. The REACH Program is a free 9 week psycho-educational support group (based on the principles of responsibility, education, acceptance, connection and hope) to help participants with depression or bipolar disorder manage their illness and stay well. Topics include fostering strengths, dealing with loss and grief, identifying early warning signs and triggers, wellbeing strategies, nurturing support networks and creating a unique 'Stay Well Plan'.

Eligibility criteria for participants:

  • Over 18 years old
  • Diagnosis of depression or bipolar disorder, for a minimum of one year
  • Capacity to participate in a group setting
  • Capacity to commit to attending the 9 weekly sessions
  • Acceptance of illness
  • Motivation to implement personal change strategies

Interested in becoming a volunteer Facilitator of the R.E.A.C.H program in your area?

Listing of other, non-Black Dog Institute support groups throughout Australia

GORDON, NSW
Each Monday, 16 July – 17 September 2012

Simone Isemann & Gabrielle Waters-McKay

Simone Isemann is a psychologist who has Masters in both Clinical Psychology and Coaching Psychology. Simone works at Lifeline Harbour to Hawkesbury in their face-to- face counselling service. In addition to seeing individual clients, she co - facilitates the “Partners in Depression” group, which provides education and support for people who care for someone with depression. Simone strongly believes that groups provide a positive environment for learning and connecting with others. Simone hopes that the REACH program will help each participant on his or her journey towards increased well-being.

Gabrielle Waters-McKay is a registered psychologist who has a Masters in Child & Adolescent Health. Gabrielle coordinates the face to face counselling service at Lifeline Harbour to Hawkesbury and also works in private practice seeing a diverse range of individuals on a wide range of issues. She also co-facilitates the ‘Partners in Depression” group. Gabrielle is passionate about supporting people to explore their inner strengths in their journey from mental illness to recovery so they can lead rich and meaningful lives.

Facilitator: Simone Isemann & Gabrielle Waters-McKay
Date: Each Monday 16 July – 17 September
Time: 7pm – 9pm
Location: Gordon

Express your interest here

ARMIDALE, NSW
9 consecutive Tuesdays 2012, expressions of interest now open

Tim Rawson is a General Psychologist with Centacare NENW, who is based in Armidale but travels regularly to service neighboring areas. Tim has worked in both government and NGO settings with all age groups, and has a strong passion to improve mental health services for regional NSW. Tim currently provides counseling and assessment services to local schools and works with general clients from the Armidale Centacare office. Tim is looking forward to bringing REACH to the area as he believes the program will be of great benefit to those on their journey of recovery.

Facilitator: Tim Rawson- Psychologist
Dates: 9 Consecutive Tuesdays, 2012
Time: 9.30am – 11.30am
Location: Centacare, 3/150 Rusden St Armidale

Express your interest here


Become a REACH Support Group Facilitator

Our REACH Support Group Facilitators are experienced facilitators who are committed to providing practical skills, information, support and self-care strategies to individuals with a mood disorder through delivery of the Institute’s 9 week REACH Support Group Program in their community. Click here for REACH Facilitator brochure [PDF, 446KB]

REACH Support Group Facilitator intake and training dates:

  • 26 & 27 July (location to be confirmed)
    Applications open: 4 June – 29 June

  • 13 & 14 November (Randwick, Sydney)
    Applications open 1 Oct – 19 Oct