Sharon Stokes
About me
This supervisor is approved to provide supervision under the Access to Supervision Project.
I am a carer with lived (and living) experience supporting my son through a range of complex challenges, including mental health issues, an 11-year journey with addiction, and his path toward abstinence and recovery. To be in a workforce where I can lend my carer perspective experiences is challenging, rewarding and also a great privilege.
Over the years, I have worked in various lived experience roles across both acute inpatient and community settings. These experiences have given me a deep understanding of the needs of the peer workforce, and I firmly believe that no peer worker should ever feel unsupported in their role.
My personal and professional journey has provided me with a unique insight into the complexities of our healthcare systems and services—particularly from the perspective of families and carers. This insight drives my commitment to ensuring that family and carer voices are respected, included, and meaningfully represented in all aspects of care and decision-making.
I am passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of families and carers, and I am committed to creating spaces where their experiences are valued and heard.
My qualifications include a Diploma in Counselling, Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work, Intentional Peer Support training, and completion of the Carer Perspective Supervision Framework.
My experience
Started my journey in lived experience:
2018-2022, Monash Health Level 2 Family peer in Youth Acute Inpatient
2022- Current,Peninsula Health Senior Family Peer in Youth Community Mental Health Team
My current role/work
Senior Family Peer
Peninsula Health Integrated Youth Assertive Treatment Team
My training
Diploma in Counselling
Single session peer work – The Bouverie Center
Certificate IV Mental Health Peer Work
Intentional Peer Support
Carer Perspective Supervision Framework
Certificate IV Training and assessment
My approach to supervision
Supervision is an opportunity for growth and development as a Family Peer Support Worker and Carer Consultant. I provide a safe, confidential space where Family/Carer lived experience workers can openly share their challenges and successes. It is a dedicated time for reflection, professional exploration, and nurturing personal and professional growth in this unique and meaningful field. With several years of experience in the sector, I bring valuable insight and knowledgeable support to my supervision practice.