Lived Experience in the Delivery of Mental Health Services in the Rural Communities
Tracks
Mossman - In-Person
| Friday, November 8, 2024 |
| 8:55 AM - 9:15 AM |
| Mossman Ballroom |
Overview
Nathan Darvill, Expressive Mind Therapy and Jenelle Connors, Harrys Helping Hands
Presenter
Jenelle Connors
CEO
Harry’s Helping Hands Counselling
Lived Experience in the Delivery of Mental Health Services in the Rural Communities
Abstract
In rural areas, access to mental health services is often limited, resulting in significant disparities in care compared to urban counterparts. While this issue has garnered attention in academic and policy circles, the voices of those directly involved in delivering services—the individuals with lived experience—are often overlooked. This presentation aims to fill this gap by exploring the invaluable insights garnered from individuals with firsthand experience in providing mental health services within rural communities.
Drawing from qualitative research and personal narratives, this presentation will delve into the unique challenges faced by mental health service providers in rural settings. These challenges include geographical isolation, limited resources, stigma surrounding mental health, and cultural barriers. By amplifying the voices of those who have navigated these challenges firsthand, we aim to shed light on the complex dynamics at play and identify strategies to enhance service delivery.
Furthermore, this presentation will highlight the strengths and resilience of rural communities in addressing mental health needs. By harnessing local resources, fostering community partnerships, and integrating culturally sensitive approaches, mental health service providers have been able to bridge the gap and improve access to care. These stories of innovation and collaboration serve as valuable lessons for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners seeking to address mental health disparities in rural areas.
Ultimately, this presentation advocates for a paradigm shift in the way mental health services are conceptualised and delivered in rural communities. By centring the perspectives of those with lived experience, we can develop more nuanced and effective approaches that truly meet the needs of these underserved populations. Through meaningful collaboration and a commitment to amplifying marginalized voices, we can strive towards a future where all individuals, regardless of their geographical location, have access to high-quality mental health care.
Drawing from qualitative research and personal narratives, this presentation will delve into the unique challenges faced by mental health service providers in rural settings. These challenges include geographical isolation, limited resources, stigma surrounding mental health, and cultural barriers. By amplifying the voices of those who have navigated these challenges firsthand, we aim to shed light on the complex dynamics at play and identify strategies to enhance service delivery.
Furthermore, this presentation will highlight the strengths and resilience of rural communities in addressing mental health needs. By harnessing local resources, fostering community partnerships, and integrating culturally sensitive approaches, mental health service providers have been able to bridge the gap and improve access to care. These stories of innovation and collaboration serve as valuable lessons for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners seeking to address mental health disparities in rural areas.
Ultimately, this presentation advocates for a paradigm shift in the way mental health services are conceptualised and delivered in rural communities. By centring the perspectives of those with lived experience, we can develop more nuanced and effective approaches that truly meet the needs of these underserved populations. Through meaningful collaboration and a commitment to amplifying marginalized voices, we can strive towards a future where all individuals, regardless of their geographical location, have access to high-quality mental health care.
Biography
Jenelle Connors has completed a Bachelor of Psychology, a Graduate Diploma of Counselling and founded Harrys Helping Hands Counselling in honour of her son who tragically passed away in 2008. Through her life experiences she is inspired and passionate about supporting people experiencing challenges with grief and loss. As a counsellor and grieving mother Jenelle feels that everyone experiences and expresses grief in their own way. A wide range of emotions and behaviour can be expected with grief, and she believes it beneficial to lean on others for support. Jenelle is a counsellor who from a place of understanding will listen, help and provide an avenue for healthy resolution and peace.
Nathan Darvill
CEO
Expressive Mind Therapy
Lived Experience in the Delivery of Mental Health Services in the Rural Communities
Abstract
In rural areas, access to mental health services is often limited, resulting in significant disparities in care compared to urban counterparts. While this issue has garnered attention in academic and policy circles, the voices of those directly involved in delivering services—the individuals with lived experience—are often overlooked. This presentation aims to fill this gap by exploring the invaluable insights garnered from individuals with firsthand experience in providing mental health services within rural communities.
Drawing from qualitative research and personal narratives, this presentation will delve into the unique challenges faced by mental health service providers in rural settings. These challenges include geographical isolation, limited resources, stigma surrounding mental health, and cultural barriers. By amplifying the voices of those who have navigated these challenges firsthand, we aim to shed light on the complex dynamics at play and identify strategies to enhance service delivery.
Furthermore, this presentation will highlight the strengths and resilience of rural communities in addressing mental health needs. By harnessing local resources, fostering community partnerships, and integrating culturally sensitive approaches, mental health service providers have been able to bridge the gap and improve access to care. These stories of innovation and collaboration serve as valuable lessons for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners seeking to address mental health disparities in rural areas.
Ultimately, this presentation advocates for a paradigm shift in the way mental health services are conceptualised and delivered in rural communities. By centring the perspectives of those with lived experience, we can develop more nuanced and effective approaches that truly meet the needs of these underserved populations. Through meaningful collaboration and a commitment to amplifying marginalized voices, we can strive towards a future where all individuals, regardless of their geographical location, have access to high-quality mental health care.
Three Key Learnings:
1. Lived Experience as a Key Perspective: The presentation underscores the importance of incorporating the perspectives of mental health service providers with lived experience in rural communities. By amplifying their voices, we gain valuable insights into the unique challenges and strengths of delivering mental health services in these settings.
2. Challenges in Rural Mental Health Service Delivery: It highlights the myriad challenges faced by mental health providers in rural areas, including geographical isolation, limited resources, stigma, and cultural barriers. Understanding these challenges is essential for developing effective strategies to address mental health disparities in rural communities.
3. Community Resilience and Collaboration: Despite the challenges, the presentation emphasizes the resilience of rural communities and the potential for positive change through community partnerships and innovative approaches. By harnessing local resources and fostering collaboration, mental health service providers can enhance access to care and improve outcomes for individuals in rural areas.
Drawing from qualitative research and personal narratives, this presentation will delve into the unique challenges faced by mental health service providers in rural settings. These challenges include geographical isolation, limited resources, stigma surrounding mental health, and cultural barriers. By amplifying the voices of those who have navigated these challenges firsthand, we aim to shed light on the complex dynamics at play and identify strategies to enhance service delivery.
Furthermore, this presentation will highlight the strengths and resilience of rural communities in addressing mental health needs. By harnessing local resources, fostering community partnerships, and integrating culturally sensitive approaches, mental health service providers have been able to bridge the gap and improve access to care. These stories of innovation and collaboration serve as valuable lessons for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners seeking to address mental health disparities in rural areas.
Ultimately, this presentation advocates for a paradigm shift in the way mental health services are conceptualised and delivered in rural communities. By centring the perspectives of those with lived experience, we can develop more nuanced and effective approaches that truly meet the needs of these underserved populations. Through meaningful collaboration and a commitment to amplifying marginalized voices, we can strive towards a future where all individuals, regardless of their geographical location, have access to high-quality mental health care.
Three Key Learnings:
1. Lived Experience as a Key Perspective: The presentation underscores the importance of incorporating the perspectives of mental health service providers with lived experience in rural communities. By amplifying their voices, we gain valuable insights into the unique challenges and strengths of delivering mental health services in these settings.
2. Challenges in Rural Mental Health Service Delivery: It highlights the myriad challenges faced by mental health providers in rural areas, including geographical isolation, limited resources, stigma, and cultural barriers. Understanding these challenges is essential for developing effective strategies to address mental health disparities in rural communities.
3. Community Resilience and Collaboration: Despite the challenges, the presentation emphasizes the resilience of rural communities and the potential for positive change through community partnerships and innovative approaches. By harnessing local resources and fostering collaboration, mental health service providers can enhance access to care and improve outcomes for individuals in rural areas.
Biography
Nathan Darvill is a multifaceted professional nearing completion of his Bachelor of Counselling, driven by a profound commitment to holistic well-being. With a background in Dog Grooming, Nathan's dedication to precision and care extends to every facet of his work, ensuring the health and happiness of furry companions. Concurrently, Nathan serves as an engaged Counsellor, drawing upon insights gleaned from a distinguished 20-year military career. As Co-Director of Expressive Mind Therapy, alongside his wife Kellie, Nathan offers a comprehensive array of services including Social Work, Behaviour Support, and Group Therapy. His military tenure cultivated resilience and adaptability, seamlessly integrated with his grooming expertise and counselling skills, forging a unique blend of compassion and competence. Nathan Darvill epitomizes the transformative power of diverse experiences converging into a purpose-driven professional journey, propelled by an unwavering dedication to mental health and well-being through a lived experience lens.
