Assistu care & support services

About Us

Directors Abigail, Bridie, and Sally bring a combined 30 years of experience in the sector, dedicated to supporting individuals within the Ballarat community.

At AssistU, our team is renowned for its extensive expertise and deep knowledge of the industry. We are driven by a passion for making a difference, and we are committed to delivering services that are not only innovative but also of the highest quality.

Training at AssistU

At AssistU, we offer comprehensive trauma informed training to all new staff members, recognising it as essential for understanding the effects of trauma on the brain, development, and relationships. This knowledge is crucial for support workers to identify unmet needs and create opportunities for healing and growth.

Our Directors lead this training, drawing on their extensive practical and professional experience, as well as the principles established by pioneers in trauma informed care. We are committed to supporting our staff’s ongoing professional development, empowering them to make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of the Participants they support.

In addition, we have hosted trauma informed training sessions for other professionals in the sector, sharing our expertise to help the wider community build a deeper understanding of trauma and its effects.

Stay tuned for upcoming training opportunities designed to expand knowledge and enhance practice in the sector—more to come soon!

Meet the team at assistU

Get to know the team at AssistU Care and Support Services

Abigail Dupcinov
Director

With 9 years of experience, Abigail has worked with high-risk and complex Participants, including those with disabilities and individuals who have experienced significant trauma.

Abigail has managed and led multiple teams supporting children and young people in residential care settings, focusing on providing trauma informed care and fostering a compassionate approach to support. Abigail has taken on the role of Health and Safety Officer (OH&S), overseeing and ensuring the wellbeing of staff and Participants.

Abigail holds a Diploma of Community Services and a Certificate IV in Child, Youth and Family Intervention. 

Bridie Bunworth
Director

With 7 years of experience managing staff and working with high-risk, complex Participants, Bridie has developed expertise in supporting people with disabilities. Bridie’s focus has been on delivering tailored care and fostering a trauma informed approach, ensuring the best outcomes for vulnerable individuals.

Bridie has successfully led teams in a residential care setting, emphasising collaboration and professional development to provide high-quality support.

Bridie’s qualifications include a Bachelor of Psychological Science, Certificate IV in Child, Youth and Family Intervention, and a Diploma of Leadership and Management. Bridie is also a certified Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI®) Practitioner.

Sally Dupcinov
Director
Sally brings 15 years of experience managing high-risk programs for children and young people with complex behaviours. She has successfully led teams across multiple residential care settings, ensuring the delivery of effective, trauma informed care. Sally also has extensive experience in disability, working closely with individuals to promote their independence, wellbeing, and inclusion.

In addition to her professional expertise, Sally has 8 years of experience as a foster carer, offering valuable insight into caregiving and the importance of creating safe, nurturing environments for young people.

Sally’s qualifications include a Diploma of Community Services, Certificate IV in Child, Youth and Family Intervention, and a Diploma in Leadership and Management. She is also a certified Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI®) Practitioner.

Joanne Reid
Support Coordinator
Joanne brings 9 years of experience working with children and young people in the Out of Home Care system, as well as supporting families with extensive trauma histories and complex behavioural challenges. She has held various leadership roles overseeing residential care homes, and more recently, worked as a consultant providing therapeutic support to staff teams, families, and clients. Joanne also has experience in education programs, where she supported disengaged youth, helping them access learning opportunities and re-engage with their education.

Joanne is passionate about working collaboratively with families and clients to achieve their goals, with a strong emphasis on prioritising trauma-informed care throughout the process.

Her qualifications include a Diploma in Community Services and a Certificate IV in Child, Youth, and Family Intervention. Joanne is also trained in BSEM (Therapeutic Education Model).

 

 

Abbey Murphy
Intake and Support Practitioner

Abbey brings 6 years of experience working with high-risk children and young people in both Out of Home Care and detox facilities. She has a strong background in supporting clients facing drug and alcohol dependencies, trauma, and those with disabilities.

Abbey is particularly passionate about working with complex cases and is dedicated to developing effective strategies to support her clients in achieving their goals, while ensuring a smooth and positive intake experience. Abbey’s experience focuses on helping clients build life skills and supporting their re-engagement with the community. She works to empower individuals, fostering independence and connecting them with resources to help them participate in social and community activities.

Her qualifications include a Certificate IV in Child, Youth and Family Intervention, as well as certifications in Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol support.

Jordan Mark
Support Coordinator

Jordan brings 8 years of experience working with vulnerable young people and adults who have faced trauma, mental health challenges, and disabilities. His career spans a variety of roles, including mental health residential care, disability support, and Support Coordination, giving him a well-rounded and deep understanding of the diverse needs and challenges faced by his clients. This experience has allowed Jordan to develop a compassionate and client-centered approach, tailoring support plans to address both the practical and emotional needs of those he works with.

Jordan is especially passionate about finding new ways to support neurodivergent Participants and individuals who have experienced mental health trauma. He is dedicated to ensuring that care is personalised and adaptable to each person’s unique experiences and strengths, helping them achieve their goals and improve their quality of life.

His qualifications include a Diploma in Community Services and a Diploma in Psychological Science.

Latest at Assistu cARE & sUPPORT

Have a look at what we have been up to at AssistU

At AssistU we work with a variety of stakeholders and members of the community here in Ballarat. We have a big focus attending community events and training as this can grow not only our knowledge but our team’s. 

Have a look at some moments from our attendance at expos, networking lunches, business milestones, staff induction and trainings.

Make sure to keep an eye out on what AssistU is doing next!

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