Sarah started with Open Minds in 2012 as a Support Worker and quickly began to specialise in complex care support. Having held various roles within Open Minds since, Sarah is now Complex Support Specialist and works with clients who have complex care needs. By collaborating with clients, carers, and all other stakeholders involved in the client’s life, Sarah works to develop a positive behaviour support plan. This plan is the agreed way to best support a client to improve their quality of life, independence, and reduce any restrictive practices that may be in place.

Sarah said: “The best part of my job is when the strategies I’ve laid out in the plan work, and I can see the client now has more choice and independence in their life.  My goal is to always try and minimize or remove any restrictive practices placed on the individual.”

Alicia is a qualified Social Worker with 9 years’ experience in the community setting. She has previously held roles supporting refugees and asylum seekers. 

Alicia started with Open Minds in 2014 as a Case Manager working both internally and across external organisations supporting individuals experiencing complex situations. Alicia provides internal support across Open Minds teams assisting with complex client situations. Alicia also works with clients under the NDIS receiving Improving relationship funding. This includes completing functional behavioural assessments to develop positive behaviour support plans both with and without restrictive practices.

Where possible, Alicia will always seek to gain the involvement and views of the client. Including involving the individual’s support persons throughout the plan development. Alicia provides ongoing support and involvement throughout the duration of the plan.

Alicia said: "What I love about working at Open Minds is collaborating with clients and their existing supports to reduce or eliminate restrictive practices, which ultimately means they can live a happier and more independent life."