Lily's blooming career
with Open Minds
Lily’s career began as a law clerk, but the COVID-19 pandemic prompted her to reflect on her true passion: helping people, particularly in the realm of human rights.
This led her to transition into mental health support, starting as a support worker for the NDIS before joining Open Minds.
Over her five years in the sector, she has worked as a support worker, caseworker, and now as a team leader for the HASI and CLS programs in northern New South Wales.
“No two days are the same,” she said. “There’s always something happening, which keeps me on my toes as I prioritise and compartmentalise tasks.”
What brings her the most satisfaction is knowing she has made a tangible difference by the end of the day.
“Whether it’s building relationships with stakeholders, securing referrals, or facilitating groups, every aspect contributes to improving people’s lives.
Our services are evidence-based and values-driven, focused on helping people sustain positive changes while navigating mental health challenges. That sense of purpose and community impact keeps me going.”
Lily addresses a common misconception about her work: many think it revolves solely around crisis management. “In reality, we support people to make long-term, positive changes in their lives. Our approach is highly personalised and empowering, not just reactive.”
Lily was recently diagnosed with ADHD, a journey she describes as enlightening. “I was diagnosed later in life, starting through supervision with a psychiatrist who specialises in ADHD in women.”
Finding support from others with similar experiences has been comforting for Lily.
“Having that validation and witnessing self-compassion modelled by others has been important. I’m still relatively new to my diagnosis and navigating it, but I started medication, which has significantly changed my life.
“While it doesn’t solve everything – I still misplace my phone and water bottle frequently – having a supportive environment makes it easier to cope.”