As the city campus starts to warm up, it is a good time to remind you that we have counsellors onsite. If you are at the City Campus, a counsellor is in the same building (Level 2).
For many years, the counselling team was primarily located at Bedford Park. But as Flinders spreads its wings, including into the city, so does the counselling team.
In a previous post, I introduced you to Sarah, our counsellor in the Northern Territory.
This post is to introduce you to Haidee and Sam, our counsellors at the City Campus. Both are highly experienced and with their diverse backgrounds and expertise, they bring a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to supporting students on their journey towards improved mental health and wellbeing.
Some of you may have met them during the recent Wellbeing Week celebrations, where they visited a few of the city classes to introduce themselves. If not, get to know them a bit below.
Haidee Baker:
Haidee Baker is a registered psychologist with a Master’s degree in school psychology. With over 15 years of experience in various educational settings, community mental health organizations, and private practice, Haidee is passionate about helping students enhance their wellbeing and overcome obstacles that hinder their academic and personal lives.
Haidee has a strong interest in working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs. Having studied in Australia, France, and Canada, she has a special affinity for supporting international students, migrants, refugees, as well as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Her time living and working in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) lands has further enriched her understanding and respect for different cultures and communities.
Known for her warm and non-judgmental approach, Haidee creates a safe and supportive space for students to explore their thoughts, emotions, and challenges. She employs evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based techniques tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals. Haidee will be available for counselling appointments at the City Campus on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
Beyond her professional endeavours, Haidee enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, indulging in reading, meditation, and horse riding.
Sam Thomson:
Sam Thomson brings a rich background in social work and counselling to our team. With experience in suicide bereavement, grief and loss, school settings, and community development programs, Sam has honed his skills in supporting individuals across various demographics, with a particular focus on men, young athletes, and adolescents.
His leadership roles at the Urgent Mental Health Care Centre have equipped him with expertise in crisis intervention and alternative approaches to mental health crisis care. Sam’s therapeutic approach is rooted in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy, and person-centered techniques. He adopts a strengths-based, solution-focused approach, tailored to each individual’s needs and preferences. Sam will be available for counselling appointments at the City Campus on Mondays and Tuesdays and at Bedford Park from Wednesdays to Fridays. .
When he’s not at work, you can find Sam indulging in his love for Carlton, hitting the beach, or enjoying a game of golf.
Chuffed to have them join the team:
We are excited to welcome Haidee Baker and Sam Thomson to our counselling team. Whether you’re struggling with academic stress, mental health challenges, or simply seeking support, Haidee and Sam (along with the rest of the team) are here to help you navigate life’s ups and downs with compassion and understanding. To book an appointment, visit the counselling website, complete the form or ring or email and make sure to let them know you are at the City Campus.
You might also be interested to know that they are running Mindful Moments sessions in the city if you need a quick change of mental scenery during the day.
