Amy English: Reducing Isolation in Maitland’s Mental Health Sector
Profession: Accredited Mental Health Social Worker
Network: Modalities in Maitland Special Interest Group
Location: Maitland, NSW
Amy English plays a pivotal role in coordinating the Modalities in Maitland Special Interest Group (SIG), which meets bimonthly in-person and online. She has co-coordinated the network with fellow mental health professional Michele Bowes since 2022.
Formerly known as the Hunter Valley Acceptance and Commitment Therapy SIG, the network has been operating for over a decade – a testament to its members’ commitment and passion for peer support and professional development.
Initially focused on ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), the group has since expanded its scope to include therapists from a range of disciplines. Today, members come together to share diverse modalities and approaches, fostering integrated, collaborative care.
Understanding the isolating nature of mental health practice, Amy was excited at the opportunity to coordinate the network and continue bringing practitioners together across disciplines.
“What I really love about coordinating our network is the fulfilment of seeing new and emerging practitioners be welcomed by seasoned and experienced practitioners, and the sharing of knowledge amongst all attendees.”
Amy is focused on cultivating a supportive environment where practitioners can connect and share multidisciplinary expertise.
“Our network is a safe and welcoming time spent together in sharing our wins, challenges, support, and areas of experience to enrich the learning of everyone involved.”
Amy has facilitated meetings focusing on topics such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), ACT and Vicarious Trauma, and Psychosis – all tailored to spark rich, multidisciplinary conversations.
Through her coordination efforts, Amy is helping to reduce isolation and burnout in local practitioners, ensuring they belong to a community with shared values and a commitment to increased collaborative care in the mental health care sector.
Interested in becoming a Network Coordinator? Visit mhpn.org.au/Members/#/NetworksSeekingCoordinators
Want to view upcoming meetings? Visit mhpn.org.au/Members/#/Events
Looking for a network to join? Visit mhpn.org.au/members/#/SearchNetwork
