Veronica

Hello, I'm Veronica and it's so nice to meet you! I am a friendly person who loves animals as well as the outdoors and most people describe me as fun, generous and mature.

I work as a coach and psychotherapist in my own business called Mind Health First which I established in 2019. I have my own property in Melbourne which I lease out and travel between Melbourne and Sydney for my work.

In my business, I collaborate with other allied health professionals to support people with various psychosocial needs and work primarily youth and women. I used to be a teacher (high school and primary school levels) and re-trained in my 40s to address growing concerns about mental health in the community.

I now deliver Mental Health First Aid classes in schools and various workplaces and encourage clients to try pet therapy in combination with nature therapy as part of their wellbeing plan. I consider that pets are little souls, little angels here to help us all feel more love for self, others and nature.

I was very lucky and grew up in country Victoria on a farm with horses, chickens, sheep, dogs and cats and very used to being around animals. I love gardening, being out in nature and walking. My father was an Agricultural Scientist and worked for the UN so I have great appreciation for the land we are on and what it delivers to sustain us all.

A former competitive 800 m runner in my 40s, I now enjoy beach walks, Bikram yoga, Yin yoga as well as all forms of dance and yes, I used to teach Zumba classes as well as I am quite and active person.

My disposition is engaging, fun and most children love interacting with me too. I come up with out-of-the box ideas to keep them engaged in activities that are helpful for their brain development. Animals also need activities and various strategies to keep them healthy. I love reading and learning (currently studying Graduate Dip in Trauma-Informed Processwork Psychotherapy through Pathways Psychology Institute) and enjoy working at home (since I run my own business, I work from home and not in an office).

I am well established in the mental health space and have been invited to present talks about mental health with various organisations including Global Youth Mental Health Awareness and Learning Verve in Victoria and Business Network International in the Northern Beaches in Sydney.

I am a member of several organisations including ICF, PACFA, IICT and Mental Health First Aid Australia. I also serve to promote community-based interactions through SERVAS International as their Social Media Coordinator and consider that Aussie House Sitters is an excellent platform to connect with others in the community whilst providing a mutual service.

I am available in NSW and Victoria and am very tidy, respectful of others' property and committed to going the extra mile for my hosts. I have house sat before however only through word of mouth and since I have been trusted to do this with excellent feedback, I am now looking to establish myself on this platform in case you may need my help.

I am looking forward to meeting you and looking after your beautiful pet. They, to me (just like children), are teachers of kindness, patience and love.