Russell Hurkens
Business Manager
PASSIONATE. DEDICATED. CARING.
Meet Our People
Introducing the heart of Ararat Wellness – a team of experienced professionals, each bringing a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to fostering positive growth and well-being.
Karen Ceccon
Director / Advanced Behavioural Practitioner
Robyn McGuiness
Executive Assistant
Sarah Tyler
Client Engagement Manager
Darielle Gilbert
Group Activities Manager
Lauren Walker
Counsellor
Emma Rusden
Counsellor
Kelsey Weight
Dietitian
Niva Perera
Registered Psychologist / Senior Behaviour Practitioner
SUPPORT FOR NDIS PARTICIPANTSBook an Appointment
From life's smallest ripples to its biggest waves, therapy is the anchor for us all.
Navigating life with unique challenges often requires specialised support. Mental therapy and counselling are crucial in providing NDIS participants with the tools and strategies needed to manage emotions, build resilience, and foster a positive outlook on life.
Our Aim: Navigating From
Daily Hurdles
To Life's Monumental Moments.
Whats’ your why?
Inspiration for Well-Being
Browse Our Articles
Supporting Someone with Trauma: Evidence-Based Approaches for Compassionate Care in Australia
TL;DR Supporting someone with trauma demands an understanding of its neurobiological and emotional impacts alongside targeted, evidence-based interventions. By integrating trauma-informed frameworks, encouraging resilience, and employing community-based supports, individuals and families across Australia can navigate the recovery journey with empathy and clarity. Discover how personalised care and structured intervention can ameliorate the long-term effects of…
Emotional Numbness: Causes and Healing
TL;DR Emotional numbness, often arising from trauma, chronic stress, and psychiatric conditions, is a protective response that can undermine daily life and relationships. Understanding its multifaceted aetiology—from neurobiological shifts to disruptive sociocultural influences—reveals various therapeutic pathways, including CBT, EMDR, ACT, and mindfulness-based strategies. Integrating these approaches can gently support emotional reintegration while respecting individual experiences…
Therapies for Trauma Recovery: Evidence-Based Approaches for Lasting Healing
TL;DR Trauma recovery can be complex, but evidence-based therapies such as trauma-focused CBT, EMDR, metacognitive therapy, and narrative exposure therapy offer effective paths to healing. In Australia, these approaches, complemented by novel modalities like somatic experiencing and art therapy, empower clients to rebuild their lives. With personalised, compassionate care from specialists like Ararat Wellness, individuals…