Our Approach, our values

At the heart of our practice, we're dedicated to fostering your journey toward independence and recovery. Our team is passionate about creating a safe, comfortable, and neuroaffirming space where you can freely explore your path.

We fundamentally operate from systems and strengths-based approaches, championed by our Lived Experience practitioner model. We aim to bring warmth, transparency, and empathy to all our work, always prioritizing your empowerment and autonomy and celebrating the richness of all neurotypes

Meet the LYW Team

  • Rachel (Principal Social Worker) sitting in swing

    Rachel Beggs

    Principal Accredited Social Worker (Practice Owner)

    Monday-Wednesday 9:00am-5:00pm

    Special Interests:
    Arts (painting and embroidery), Canva, Camping, 4×4 adventures, Music, Gigs, Broadway Musicals (Specifically Hamilton, Wicked & DEH)

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  • Sam - Social Work practitioner, sitting in a red chair smiling at the camera

    Sam Van Veen

    Accredited Social Worker

    Monday-Friday 9:00am-5:00pm

    Special Interests:
    Reading (across all genres), ice skating, painting & crafting, Nature & Outdoors

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  • Steph - Social Work practitioner sitting in a red chair smiling at the camera

    Steph Galletly

    Accredited Social Worker

    Wednesday-Friday 9:00am-5:00pm

    Special Interests:
    Ever expanding! (Who doesn’t love a new hobby?), photography, reading, gardening, sewing & embroidery, any craft project! travelling and canoeing

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  • Sarah Jo - Administration & Client Support Officer

    Sarah Jo Sommers

    Administration & Client Support Officer

    Wednesday - Thursday 9:00am-2:00pm

    Special Interests:
    Exploring new places, beach days, travelling, reading, painting,
    & hosting games / movie nights

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