Meet the Team

Shay McDowall

Team Leader, Support Coordinator and Psychosocial Recovery Coach

Servicing Southern Gold Coast or Remote Support Australia Wide

ABOUT ME

I am a Support Coordinator and Psychosocial Recovery Coach with A Better Tomorrow Australia. I work with people with a wide range of disabilities, including intellectual, sensory, physical, and complex psychosocial challenges. My goal is to empower participants by connecting them with appropriate supports, while promoting informed decision-making and active engagement in their NDIS journey.

Alongside my Support Coordination role, I also practise privately as a somatic therapist, providing trauma-informed support that integrates body-based and talk-based therapy. This holistic, person-centred approach focuses on meaningful connection, emotional wellbeing, healing, and personal growth.

With 17 years of experience in veterinary nursing, specialising in internal medicine, I bring strong skills in compassion, critical thinking, and holistic care. My background helps me support both the emotional and physical needs of individuals with disabilities, providing tailored support that reflects their unique circumstances. I am adaptable in emergency situations and respond effectively to urgent needs and unexpected challenges.

I am passionate about mental health and workplace wellbeing. I have developed and led mental health programs, workshops, and group training sessions to support people in service roles, reduce burnout, and address mental health challenges.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

  • Bachelor of Psychology - Undergrad

  • Mental health advocate

  • Certifications in Sound Therapy, Somatic Experiencing (SE), Polyvagal Theory in Trauma Treatment (PVT) CPD-TPDP

  • 50-hour CPD in Suicide Prevention

  • Cert IV Veterinary Nurse

  • Cert III Early Childhood Education

  • Culturally safe, trauma-aware and healing-informed practice