A new psychologist will be moving to the wheatbelt as part of the Wheatbelt General Practice Networks (WGPN) restructure aimed at improving emotional and social wellbeing services in remote locations.
Claire Prince will be working with adults and young people in Northam, Toodyay, Pingelly and Narrogin. Claire has a broad range of experience working with high risk children, adolescents and adults.
“I especially enjoy working with teenagers and find them more insightful and knowledgeable than most people recognise,” Claire said.
Most recently, Claire worked for Learning Links undertaking academic and psychometric assessments and delivering school based counselling and anxiety and anger management programs.
She previously spent several years working in vocational rehabilitation, assisting people to return to work or make career changes.
Claire said she is looking forward to bringing her skills and experience to her work with the Wheatbelt community and will be collaborating with other team members in developing group based programmes as well as delivering individual services.
“Taking the first step and asking for help from a stranger is daunting and takes great courage, so the most important thing is to take the time to build a safe and trusting relationship,” she explained. “Once the rapport is established and the person is engaged it becomes easier to open up and begin to honestly explore the issues of concern.”
Outside of work Claire’s interest include renovating her home, gardening and photography. “These are the interests that have enabled me to unwind from my work over the past twenty years,” she said. “I try to impress upon my clients of any age that is important for everyone, but especially those employed in high stress work environments to establish a healthy balance between their work and home and family lives.”
Dr Harry Randhawa, WGPN chief executive officer said: “We are so pleased to have been able to secure Claire a talented and experienced mental health professional to further enhance our strong team.”
If you or your child is experiencing problems at home, talk to your GP about a referral or contact the WGPN on 9621 4444.
