Welcome!

Hi! I'm Debbie, an independent disability support worker and wannabe artist.  I live in Toowoomba and  I design individual art/craft lessons in things that interest you, using the materials you want to use.  Done at your own pace, in your own home... I will guide you to create art/craft pieces that you'll love & be proud of.

I consider myself a good "all-rounder", a kind of Jill-of-all-trades, with a vast bank of knowledge and experience that I can draw upon to help you out.  My father was a builder and I helped him a lot when I was growing up, learning along the way.  I can do carpentry, plaster, sand and paint, tile & masonry and can fix most things. Dad was a perfectionist... so am I. I'm known among my friend as a DIY Queen. I've lived on acreage, growing our own fruit & vegies, with lots of lawn to mow. I've always loved gardening, it's never been a chore, so I'd be happy to help with that too.

I've been in Disability Support a few years now but have been a Special Needs mum for over 22 years. It certainly has had its challenges but there's been a lot of love and laughter too.  My babies are now fully grown and living independently.  I'm super proud of them and their accomplishments. I'm also thankful of the lessons I've learnt along the way, the knowledge and experience I've gained and I'm keen to share that with you.

I have 6+ years of experience as a residential supervisor of a crisis shelter for adolescents, where I assessed resident's needs, developed case plans, taught living skills, provided counselling, assisted in finding housing and facilitated recreational & social activities.  When the time came for a change, I entered the field of administration and finance.  I am highly skilled in financial matters and have budgeting, debt management and financial counselling experience which I can also help with if needed.

My passion however is my Art.  My life certainly has had its ups & downs and I've had many high-stress jobs. Throughout all this, Art has enabled me to refocus, be mindful and has been an excellent source of stress release.  It's therapeutic properties are well documented and are extremely beneficial... and it can be lots of fun!  Like anything, the more you practice, the better you become.  Are you interested in Art/craft but can't attend art classes... I'm here to help.  I can bring the art class to you!

I am fully licensed and insured, hold a NDIS Worker Screening Check (Yellow Card) and a Working With Children (Blue Card.)  I also hold current First Aid and CCPR Certificates.  Copies of any of my qualifications and licenses can be provided upon request.

I have a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Applied Psychology. I have also attended many workshops in professional development topics such as Behavioual Management; Teaching & Behaviour Support Strategies; Identifying Special Needs; Stress, Anxiety & Emotional Regulation; Understanding ASD; and How to Utilize the Arts.

I am not new to the world of disability.  I have been profoundly deaf in one ear since early childhood, which has affected me more than a lot of people realize. However, like anyone with a disability, I've adapted, become resilient and have learnt to cope.  I also have personal experience with social anxiety and depression as well as ASD, cognitive impairment and various medical conditions eg. T1 Diabetes, Epilepsy and Fibromyalgia.  No matter our differences, we are all deserving of kindness, understanding, love and support.

Have any questions or comments? Interested in discussing what I can do for you? I'd love to hear from you. Please reach out and contact me and I'll get back to you as soon as possible.