Jo joined Reconnexion as a trained volunteer on the telephone support line in July 2007 and has since completed her master’s of Professional Psychology degree.
Jo began counselling in the benzodiazepine withdrawal program in July 2014 providing support to clients coming off medication generally prescribed for anxiety, sleep disorder or pain management. Withdrawal symptoms from benzodiazepines can be distressing and protracted requiring ongoing support to minimise withdrawal symptoms and to assist in safe withdrawal.
In addition, Jo is a group facilitator for Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), providing vital training to Reconnexion volunteers supporting people with thoughts of suicide.
Jo supports you to withdraw through tailoring a gradual reduction plan and providing ongoing support. She works collaboratively with you to establish your goals and to empower you through the therapeutic alliance, together addressing emerging issues including anxiety and depression. Her therapeutic practice includes cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, solution focused therapy, interpersonal therapy, schema therapy, relaxation techniques and psycho-education.