Presenter Profiles

 

Grant Blest (Synapse Training Manager)

Grant has eight (8) years experience working with complex and challenging behaviour and is a dynamic presenter that brings practical experience and knowledge to each workshop. As a protective actions instructor (PART) and trained in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Grant has worked both nationally and internationally to deliver seminars and education to Government, non-Government, Aged, Child Care and Child Safety sectors and Community/Family groups. Grant has worked extensively over the past 5 years in the management, development, mentoring and supervision of service user support teams and administration staff.

John Fletcher (Synapse Training Coordinator)

John has worked in the community services sector for almost 30 years working with individuals with cognitive impairment, intellectual impartment and mental health in the aged care, disability and welfare sectors. Currently completing a Bachelor Degree in Human Science, John has worked both in frontline support and management roles in independant living and supported accomodation environments. John’s knowledge of the community sector has allowed him to work for a time in the Commonwealth Public Service, having worked for Centrelink as a Personal Adviser, assisting people to return to the workforce after being long term unemployed, CALD, prison release, refugees, mums returning to the workforce, returning to work after rehabilitation and mature aged.

Jes Garaty (Synapse Accomodation Coordinator)

Jes has operational and applied experience in the human service sector. Over the last six (6) years she has worked in residential care, non-government facilities and community settings, specialising in non-clinical rehabilitation. Working in various cultural settings and understanding the diversity of individual’s as part of their communities; Jes has been a mentor and trainer of fellow workers and prominent business people. Jes has worked both in Queensland and overseas.

Graham Banks, (Synapse Accomodation - Lawnton Transitional Units Coordinator)

Graham has over 10 years experience working in the Disability Services Sector. Graham has a family member with an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) and has personal experience in dealing with the challenges that arise for people with an ABI. In his role as Coordinator of the LTU, Graham has extensive experience in working with individuals who exhibit complex and challenging behaviours in communicating their needs and is able to bring his personal and professional knowledge and experience to his role as Workshop Facilitator.

Kellie Sentinella (Community Response Officer)

Kellie has worked with people with intellectual disabilities, acquired brain injuries and mental health issues for the last 8 years. Kellie has supported clients in a direct service role and provided case management for clients and families and supervised and supported teams of Support staff. With a Bachelor of Psychology degree and experience in facilitating the Synapse Carer Support Group, Kellie has been involved in the training of internal staff, providing information sessions to Hospitals, Queensland Police Service and involved in the training of Child Safety staff.