20/01/2026
At Ramsay Mental Health, our people are the reason patients feel supported from the moment they arrive.
Meet Vanessa - Group Therapist:
What inspired you to work in mental health?
40 years ago I attended a public meeting in a town hall where a psychiatrist talked about the de-institutionalization of public mental health facilities, and the to integrate mental health inpatients back into the community and in society. As a social worker, I felt I needed to be a part of this process and represent the people in institutions with whom I had volunteered support for many years. I went on a steering committee and from there became more and more interested in the day-to-day needs of people suffering mental health issues, their careers. I have worked in the mental health system since then.
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about your role?
I wish that people were aware of the breath and extent of help a social worker can give not only in facilitating groups, but in supporting people practically, in talking through their issues, and helping them to know that they need not suffer a mental health condition on their own.
What do you love most about your job?
I love all aspects of my job. Working with in a multidisciplinary team, towards the patients’ recovery and return to a fulfilling life, beyond their mental health challenges. I love the variety of presentations of patients at different stages in their mental health journey, and the insights and growth that comes from attending group sessions