WHO WE ARE

Dane Cohen

BScPsych, MBusPsych

Director, Registered Psychologist & Specialist Behaviour Support Practitioner

Dane completed a Bachelor of Psychology at the University of Newcastle (2012) and a Master in Business Psychology (2019).

Dane has worked with children and adolescents in residential, foster care and NDIS. He identifies and treats a range of trauma and behaviour issues. Dane offers psychological assessment for children and adolescents aged 6 to 16 years, including cognitive, adaptive behaviour, and psychosocial assessments.

Currently Dane has been working within the NDIS as a Specialist Behaviour Support Practitioner supporting individuals living with disability and various mental health challenges.

Dane has developed skills to specialise in the provision of evidenced-based psychometric assessment batteries to provide a comprehensive overview of functioning in people living with neurodevelopmental and psychosocial disorders.

In his practice Dane utilises a relational approach, drawing upon elements from cognitive behaviour therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness-based practise, and trauma focused theory to inform his own style. He is passionate about helping people to live with an improved quality of life, and is driven by a desire to assist people with a variety of challenges along their journey to wellness.

Hugo hayes

BPsychSc(Hons), MClinPsych (due end 2025)

Team leader, Provisional Psychologist & Behaviour Support Practitioner

Having spent over a decade in the music industry, Hugo decided to turn his creative mind to understanding people and difficulties they’re having. In 2021, Hugo graduated from his Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) at Griffith University and immediately started working as a behaviour support practitioner within the NDIS, learning to apply his knowledge of people to challenging behaviour. In 2023, Hugo decided to return to Griffith to study his Masters of Clinical Psychology, which he is due to graduate in 2025.

Hugo also likes to give back to the community, by volunteering as a Board Member for “Human Nature”, a northern rivers based youth mental health non-profit organisation, as well as a firefighter within the NSW RFS. In his spare time, Hugo enjoys spending time with his wife, baby daughter and German Shepherd, reading, mixing and mastering music, going to the gym and getting outside.

Sigourney Andrusko

BPsychSc

Behaviour Support Practitioner

I am a passionate and person-centred Behaviour Support Practitioner with a Bachelor of Psychological Science from Griffith University. With years of experience as a disability support worker and time spent in a special education unit within a high school setting, I bring a wealth of practical knowledge and a compassionate approach to my work.

Known for being friendly, creative, and solutions-focused, I strive to tailor support plans that empower individuals and help them achieve meaningful outcomes. My practice is rooted in building strong, trusting relationships and fostering environments where everyone can thrive.

Outside of work, I’m a proud mother of two young children. I enjoy upcycling furniture, thrifting for hidden gems, reading, gardening, and cooking. I’ll happily partake in any activities that fuel my creativity and inspire my work.

David giarmmarco

BPsychSc (In Progress), DipCommServ, DipCouns

Behaviour Support Practitioner  

With a Bachelor of Psychology in progress from Swinburne University and qualifications including a Diploma of Community Services, Diploma of Counselling, Certificate IV in Youth Work, and various certifications in leadership, mental health, and crisis intervention, David brings extensive expertise to his roles.  

David's work spans from self-employed mentorship and coaching to professional roles in OOHC where he has felt privileged to serve as a Caseworker, SIL Mentor, and Therapeutic Care Worker. In these roles, David has wholeheartedly advocated for young people and coached them in goal setting, self-advocacy, emotional regulation, and life skills while ensuring their mental health needs are supported through a compassionate, individualized approach. With strong skills in crisis management, strategic planning, and team leadership, David is passionate about creating safe, supportive environments for the growth of the people he supports.  

David is a devoted father to a baby boy and cherishes time spent with his partner. He enjoys surfing, connecting with nature, reading, and cultivating his vegetable garden - pursuits that nurture his well-being and reflect his appreciation for growth and balance in all areas of life.  

Laura Oczak

BEd, MSpEd

Behaviour Support Practitioner  

I have over a decade of experience as an Inclusive Education Teacher within schools, and have a deep understanding and compassionate approach to behaviour support practice. My extensive background in education has equipped me with unique insights and strategies to effectively assist individuals and their families. 

I am committed to creating support plans that promote positive outcomes and enhance the quality of life for my participants. My approach is evidence-based and client-centred, ensuring that each individuals needs and goals take centre stage in my practice.

I am passionate about fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where every participant can thrive. Let’s work together to achieve meaningful progress and change.