To provide networking and education opportunities for Health Professionals providing services in the Domestic Family Sexual Violence space across the New England North West region of New South Wales.
The Human-Animal Intersections Network connects mental health and allied health practitioners, educators and researchers interested in how human-animal relationships intersect with mental health practice. The network explores canine-focused animal-assisted services and assistance animals, alongside companion animals more broadly in contexts including disability, domestic and family violence, homelessness and community services. Meetings will be held at least quarterly in a hybrid format, combining guest expertise, applied and reflective learning, practice spotlights and multidisciplinary discussion to strengthen evidence-informed, ethical practice and cross-sector collaboration.Join the network to be added to the mailing list and receive invitations to future meetings.Network Coordinator:Sylvia Schiavoni is a clinical counsellor, certified animal-assisted intervention specialist (C-AAIS), educator, consultant and founder with dual expertise in human services and animal behaviour. Her background spans trauma, domestic and family violence, behaviour change, disability, vocational and mental health education, animal-assisted practice and assistance dog programs. She is committed to strengthening cross-sector collaboration, ethical practice, workforce capability, program design, and sector governance.Save the Dates:Please mark your calendar with the FY26-27 meeting dates, held from 10:30-12pm AWST (WA time).Tuesday 1 September 2026 | Network Launch - Human-Animal Relationships in Practice: Bonds, Roles, and Animal WelfareTuesday 1 December 2026Tuesday 2 March 2027Tuesday 1 June 2027
The Domestic Violence & Trauma Recovery Professionals Network is a specialised initiative dedicated to supporting women who have experienced domestic violence. This network brings together mental health professionals, trauma specialists, NDIS staff, support workers, and family lawyers to explore evidence-based modalities and practices that foster healing, resilience, and confidence-building.
In addition to mental health support, the group will engage other professionals who assist women, enhancing collaboration between legal and mental health practitioners to ensure a holistic approach to recovery. By fostering professional dialogue and knowledge-sharing, this network aims to empower survivors on their healing journey, equipping them with the emotional and legal support necessary to reclaim their strength and rebuild their lives.
The network will meet four or more times a year, with meetings featuring guest speakers.
