Nethmini Tharushika
Frankston,VIC
Summary
Dedicated Youth and Family Mental Health Specialist with over three years of experience in supporting young people and families through advocacy, counselling, and program development. Committed to creating safe and inclusive environments to foster personal and emotional growth.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Student Ambassador
La Trobe University
10.2023 - Current
- Assist with planning and facilitating orientation sessions for new students, including campus tours, information sessions, and social activities.
- Help international students adjust to campus life by providing information on resources, cultural integration, and support services.
- Lead peer mentorship programs to connect students with one another, fostering a supportive and inclusive campus environment.
- Facilitate group discussions and peer support sessions on topics such as well-being, career planning, and personal development.
- Promote healthy lifestyles and self-care strategies through workshops, wellness events, and social media campaigns.
School Educator ( Casual )
Ranstard
06.2023 - Current
- Supervise children during after-school hours to ensure their safety and well-being.
- Plan and implement a variety of fun, educational, and creative activities (e.g., arts and crafts, sports, games, music).
- Provide support to students with homework and academic tasks, encouraging positive study habits.
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and respectful environment that promotes social and emotional development.
- Communicate effectively with parents/guardians regarding children’s progress, behavior, and program updates.
Rehabilitaiton Counsellor
Kinnect
06.2023 - 12.2023
- Conduct comprehensive assessments of individuals with psychosocial disabilities and psychological injuries resulting from work-related incidents.
- Collaborate with clients to establish realistic and achievable rehabilitation goals, taking into account their personal aspirations, vocational interests, and functional capacities.
- Assist clients in exploring vocational options and re-entering the workforce following a period of disability or psychological injury.
- Provide career counseling, job search assistance, resume writing support, and interview preparation to help clients secure meaningful employment.
- Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, including healthcare professionals, occupational therapists, psychologists, vocational specialists, and legal representatives, to facilitate holistic and coordinated care for clients.
Psychology Associate
Asiri Group Of Hospitals Sri Lanka
08.2022 - 02.2023
- Provided one-on-one and group counseling to young people experiencing mental health challenges.
- Developed and implemented individualized care plans and provided emotional support to help clients manage their mental health.
- Provided education and support to clients and their families regarding rehabilitation goals and progress, resulting in increased adherence to treatment plans.
- Collected and maintained accurate documentation and progress notes, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and standards.
- Assisted with scheduling and organizing client appointments and group therapy sessions, improving efficiency and reducing wait times for clients.
Family Violence Support Worker
MindCare Sri Lanka
01.2021 - 10.2021
- Observe and participate in individual, couples, and family therapy sessions under supervision.
- Conducting ongoing risk and needs assessments, creating service plans, and coordinating referrals to relevant services
- Provide psychoeducation and support to clients in understanding family dynamics, communication, and coping strategies.
- Assist facilitate group therapy sessions, workshops, or support groups as needed.
- Document case notes, progress reports, and treatment updates in compliance with ethical and confidentiality standards.
Youth Care Worker and Advocate
AIESEC In SLIIT
06.2020 - 06.2021
- Provided a safe and nurturing environment for at-risk youth through consistent supervision and positive reinforcement.
- Advocate for students’ needs within the school, ensuring they have access to necessary resources and support systems.
- Facilitate group sessions and workshops focused on building social skills, resilience, and conflict resolution.
- Collaborate with teachers and school staff to integrate AIESEC initiatives into the school's existing extracurricular activities.
- Assist in implementing behavior management plans, using positive reinforcement techniques to encourage appropriate behavior.
- Prepare reports and presentations on program outcomes, student feedback, and areas for improvement.
Psychology Intern
Ayati Hospital for Children With Disabilities
02.2020 - 12.2020
- Conducted initial assessments and intake interviews to determine clients' mental health needs and concerns.
- Assist teachers in implementing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and learning strategies tailored to students' specific needs.
- Help facilitate a positive and inclusive learning environment that promotes the well-being and development of students with disabilities.
- Maintained accurate and up-to-date client records, including session notes, progress reports, and treatment plans.
- Participate in parent-teacher meetings to discuss student progress and provide recommendations for additional support.
- Engaged in community outreach activities to support mental health initiatives and programs.
Education
Master of Science - Mental Health And Rehabilitation Counseling
La Trobe University
12.2024
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
LiverPool John Moores University
03.2022
Certification of Counselling And Psychotherapy
Institute of Mental Health
12.2022
Skills
- Client Assessment & Case Management
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Crisis Intervention & De-escalation
- Individual & Group Counseling
- Community Outreach & Advocacy
- Confidential Documentation & Reporting
- Family Systems Therapy
- Conflict Resolution & Mediation
- Cultural Competence
- Program Development & Facilitation
Memberships
- Australian Counselling Association - Student Membership
- Australian Society of Rehabilitation Counsellors - Student Membership
- Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) - Student Membership
- International Society of Substance Use Professionals - Member
- National Eating Disorders Collaboration - Full Member
- Cochrane- Full Membership
Timeline
Student Ambassador
La Trobe University
10.2023 - Current
School Educator ( Casual )
Ranstard
06.2023 - Current
Rehabilitaiton Counsellor
Kinnect
06.2023 - 12.2023
Psychology Associate
Asiri Group Of Hospitals Sri Lanka
08.2022 - 02.2023
Family Violence Support Worker
MindCare Sri Lanka
01.2021 - 10.2021
Youth Care Worker and Advocate
AIESEC In SLIIT
06.2020 - 06.2021
Psychology Intern
Ayati Hospital for Children With Disabilities
02.2020 - 12.2020
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
LiverPool John Moores University
Certification of Counselling And Psychotherapy
Institute of Mental Health
Master of Science - Mental Health And Rehabilitation Counseling
La Trobe University
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