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Meet the team

South Australia

Staff Profile

Anvar Mandavi

Senior Support Coordinator

Claire Harnett

Senior Support Coordinator

Mark Edwards

Psychosocial Recovery Coach

Nik

Senior Support Coordinator

Cynthia

Psychosocial Recovery Coach

Lauren

Senior Support Coordinator & Recovery Coach

Linda Smith

Senior Support Coordinator

Adele

Support Coordinator

Desmond

Psychosocial Recovery Coach

Celine

Support Coordinator & Psychosocial Recovery Coach

Mariam

Team Leader & Specialist Support Coordinator

John

Mental Health Counsellor

Indi

Administrative Officer

Chenoa

Office Manager

Ifa

COO

Damien Porter

Client Experience Consultant

Brian

Director
About Us
Through our qualified and compassionate recovery coaches, we support our clients to build confidence and motivation. We foster hope and build our client’s capacity to help them achieve their goals and increase their use of locally available supports to help them better manage the complexities of daily living.
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Western Australia Contact Details
Opening Hours
  • Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
  • Saturday & Sunday: Closed
South Australia Contact Details
Opening Hours
  • Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Saturday & Sunday: By Appointment Only

© 2020 BCOGNITIVE, Inc. All Rights Reserved

Anvar Mandavi

Senior Support Coordinator

I am thrilled to be a part of the Bcognitive family and to continue my role as an NDIS senior support coordinator. My professional journey has been enriched by my educational background, which includes a double degree in Social Work and Social Planning. With over a decade of experience in various roles, I bring transferable knowledge and insight to my work with vulnerable individuals. My approach to support coordination is a testament to my focus and determination. I am committed to ensuring that the work gets done efficiently and effectively, providing the best possible assistance to those in need. Whether it’s navigating complex systems or advocating for my clients, I approach each task with unwavering dedication.
While I am known for my focused and determined work ethic, I am equally as bubbly and friendly. Building positive relationships with clients is a priority for me, and I strive to create an atmosphere of trust and comfort. I believe that a warm and approachable demeanour can greatly enhance the support I provide. As a registered member of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), I am constantly seeking opportunities to expand my skill set and explore innovative approaches to my work. I am excited to explore the practice of social work within the Bcognitive team, aiming to further enhance the support we offer to our clients. I am dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals within the disability sector, and I look forward to continuing this journey of growth, support, and advocacy with the Bcognitive team.

Claire Harnett

Senior Support Coordinator

As a child growing up, I loved my pets…a dogs, cats and horses. I now have a dog, Nellie, who is part beagle and has worked with Parkinson’s SA a as a greet and meet for existing and new clients. She is a delight, both calm and kind. She is also quite happy check in on the staff just in case there may be a morsel of food on the offering.!!
Nellie lives peacefully and tolerantly with two rescue cats, Bob and Ted, who rule the house. As for the horses, they are a story of their own for another time.
I am an avid traveller and enjoyed adrenaline-based activities; skydiving, sailing, horse endurance riding (minimum distance 80 Kms) and triathlons. Now in my sedate dotage, I walk the dog, enjoy fine wine appreciation and watch my daughter play NBL1 basketball, and yes still have good banter with friends. I am off to France late August for a gentle cruise with old friends, navigating the canals in the Burgundy wine valley, and sampling the fruit of the vine, baguettes and “fromage”.
For 30 years I worked for Housing SA, managing many tenancies where I developed and honed my skills in housing management, dealing with homelessness, hording, mental health, disabilities, child protection, domestic violence, truancy, disruption, neighbourhood disputes, forced relocations, allocations, drugs, home-based laboratories and court related matters. However, one needed to be robust, resilient, brave, creative and land on one’s feet daily. My survival skill was humour, and I quickly became known as the “CEO of Articulate Banter.”
In the last three years I have worked as a Senior Support Co-Ordinator, currently working for Bcognitive, and helping NDIS participants to not only access their funding, but to assist them in improved health and outlooks, building their life’s around social inclusion, a sense of belonging, self-contribution to both Plan and Life goals, engaging with their communities, families, with health and support providers, and fostering friendships. Further, to explore interests, relationships and re-connections. One of my strengths is to explore housing needs and options.
My favourite question to participants is: “what do you love”.? This opens dialogue.
On a personal level I like to network, nurture and think outside of the square.

Mark Edwards

Psychosocial Recovery Coach

Hello, I’m Mark, and I’ve had quite a journey in my career path. For over four decades, I worked as a hairdresser, styling and snipping my way through the bustling cities of Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, and even the vibrant streets of London. It was a colorful and exciting ride, but life had more in store for me.
A shift in my life’s direction led me to the world of education, where I spent a fulfilling decade imparting knowledge and wisdom to eager minds. During my time as an educator, I even earned a TAE 40116, which is a Certification in Training and Assessment for Vocational Education and Training in Sydney, where I made my home for three decades.
However, as the world grappled with the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, I decided to return to my roots in Adelaide, to be with family and reflect on the course of my life. It was a period of soul-searching and self-discovery.
During this time, I felt a deep calling to re-educate myself once again. Giving back to the community had always been a source of joy for me, and it was time to channel that passion into a new direction. I embarked on a journey to gain a Diploma in Mental Health, driven by my own experiences with mental health issues. In this seven-month journey in the field of Mental Health, I realized that my true motivation was to help others find a better way of living.
Empathy and compassion have always been at the core of who I am. I’ve spent my life making people look and feel their best on the outside as a hairdresser, and now, I’m committed to helping them find happiness and empowerment from within. My goal is to support people in achieving independence and living their best lives in their own unique way.
With a touch of wit and humor, I believe that I can always lighten the mood and make people smile. I want to see everyone grow into the amazing individuals I know they can be. It’s a journey of transformation, self-discovery, and empowerment, and I’m here to walk that path with you, offering a helping hand and a heart full of compassion.

Nik

Senior Support Coordinator

Hi! I’m Nik, a specialist Support Coordinator with 3 years of experience in the disability sector. My focus lies in supporting complex clients. With a background in Psychology and Exercise Science, I’m passionate about empowering people with disabilities and mental health challenges to make their own choices. I advocate for inclusive community initiatives, recognising the vital role physical activity plays in mental health. My lived experience with families dealing with mental health challenges has shaped my empathetic approach. I’m dedicated to crafting innovative solutions that enhance individuals’ quality of life through choice and support.
I have had the privilege of working with diverse clients, each with their unique set of needs and aspirations. This experience has sharpened my ability to navigate the intricacies of support coordination effectively. My commitment to communication, empathy, and adeptly navigating complex systems ensures that my clients receive the specific care and assistance they require to thrive. Drawing from my own lived experiences, I am more determined than ever to promote inclusivity and a sense of belonging for all individuals, regardless of their abilities or challenges. As a specialist Support Coordinator, I am unwavering in my dedication to facilitating positive change, fostering independence, and enhancing the lives of those I serve. I look forward to continuing this rewarding journey in the disability sector, always striving to improve the quality of life for all.

Cynthia

Psychosocial Recovery Coach

Hi, I’m Cynthia, your dedicated Recovery Coach. I’m a professional mental health community worker with a deep commitment to helping individuals and families navigate mental health challenges and maintain their well-being. My approach is rooted in client empowerment, holistic care, professionalism, cultural competence, and a strong focus on each person’s unique needs. With a degree in Social Sciences, Community Service option, I’ve gained invaluable theoretical and practical knowledge to address various mental health and welfare issues affecting individuals, families, and communities.
My experience at Vinnies Women’s Crisis Centre has allowed me to create a safe, empathetic, and supportive environment for individuals in crisis. I am results-oriented and take my professional responsibilities seriously.
I have worked with diverse populations, including seniors, people with disabilities, homeless individuals, and victims of family violence, which has provided me with a well-rounded perspective on how to approach each case uniquely.
As a Recovery Coach at BCOGNITIVE, my goal is to provide tailored mental health and welfare support to promote well-being. I combine my training with critical thinking and creative skills to find innovative solutions that improve mental health outcomes for my clients. I am compassionate and dedicated to contributing to the organization’s vision.
My strong collaboration and coordination skills, along with my understanding of welfare services and resources, including NDIS and aged care services, allow me to support individuals in leading fulfilled lives. If you’re looking for a Recovery Coach who is down-to-earth and kind, I am here to help you on your journey to mental wellness.

Lauren

Senior Support Coordinator & Recovery Coach

I am Lauren, and it is with great enthusiasm that I embrace my role as a Senior Support Coordinator and Psychosocial Recovery Coach at BCognitive. With a career spanning a decade, I have garnered a wealth of knowledge and experience in various domains, including mental health, anti-human trafficking, leadership and homelessness.
My professional journey has been marked by a dedication to uplifting individuals in their most vulnerable moments. In the past, I committed six years of my life to the front lines of mental health work. During this time, I became well-versed in the intricacies of the field, mastering the art of crisis and non-crisis interventions. The challenges I faced only deepened my resolve, and I found my passion rooted in the realm of mental health support and recovery.
Throughout my career, I have witnessed the transformative power of compassion and understanding, and I have honed the ability to utilize my vast knowledge effectively to guide individuals toward a path of healing and growth. I understand that each person’s journey is unique, and I am dedicated to tailoring my approach to the individual needs of those I serve.
As a Senior Support Coordinator and Psychosocial Recovery Coach at BCognitive, I look forward to bringing my extensive experience and insights to the team. My mission is to foster a culture of empathy, resilience, and recovery, helping our clients regain their footing on the path to mental well-being. With a firm belief in the potential for positive change and growth, I am excited to be back in the mental health space, ready to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Linda Smith

Senior Support Coordinator

I’m Linda, a seasoned Senior Support Coordinator with a commitment to empowering individuals. I have experience in complex case management, I specialise in person-centred, trauma-informed, and strength-based interventions. My approach is deeply rooted in research and theories, spanning developmental, grief and loss, mental health, and biopsychosocial assessments.
Throughout my career, I’ve guided adults and children facing diverse disabilities and conditions, helping them navigate trauma, grief, parental separation, mental health challenges, and the path to independence. My expertise extends to organising and leading complex case conferences and fostering collaborative efforts among key stakeholders to address risks and concerns effectively. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and active membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), my dedication to professional growth is unwavering.
My hallmark is my empathetic approach, cultivated through diverse roles in the social sector. I’m driven by ambition, transparency, and a genuine passion for helping individuals overcome barriers. With my skills in time management, precise communication, and adept problem-solving, I’m ready to help participants journey to success as a dedicated Support Coordinator.

Adele

Support Coordinator

Hello, I’m Adele, and I’m a Support Coordinator here at Bcognitive. I’m known for my friendly and positive attitude around the office. What truly excites me about this role is the opportunity to be the participants partner on this journey towards achieving their goals through the NDIS program.
With a background as a registered nurse, I’ve gained a range of experience, from working in intensive care units to mental health, pediatrics, and beyond. I’ve also ventured into roles where I helped individuals with disabilities secure and maintain employment. This diverse background equips me with a unique set of skills and a deep understanding of the challenges anyone may face. I’ve faced my own mental health challenges, which has made me particularly empathetic and proactive in my approach to supporting others.
What I offer is a supportive partnership that goes beyond paperwork and meetings. I bring a genuine passion for helping people, a determination to find creative solutions to unique needs, and a commitment to ensuring each participant’s NDIS plan is tailored to empower them towards greater independence and fulfilment. I’m here to make sure participants are heard, supported, and equipped with the tools to thrive.

Desmond

Psychosocial Recovery Coach

I’m Desmond, a seasoned Psychosocial Recovery Coach deeply committed to fostering positive change. My journey spans over seven years, during which I’ve honed my skills in resolving challenging client issues with patience and respect. Approachability is my forte—I strive to create a space where individuals feel comfortable sharing their experiences. Fluent in multiple languages, I embrace diversity and am dedicated to making a lasting impact on people’s lives. Helping others navigate their path to recovery is not just a job; it’s my heartfelt mission.

Celine

Support Coordinator & Psychosocial Recovery Coach

Hi there! I’m Celine, I’m one of the Support Coordinator and Psychosocial Recovery Coach here at BCognitive. My mission? To help you rock your NDIS journey with confidence and a whole lot of support. Whether it’s navigating the system, setting kick-ass goals, or just being your cheerleader along the way, I’m here to make sure you feel heard, supported, and ready to conquer anything that comes your way. Let’s team up and make magic happen!

Mariam

Team Leader & Specialist Support Coordinator

Hello, I’m the Support Coordination team leader at BCOGNITIVE, specialising in Specialist Support Coordination and Support Coordination Level 2. What drives my passion in this role is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of participants.
My journey in the disability sector was started by my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and Social Planning, coupled with an extensive understanding of the NDIS. Throughout my career, I’ve assumed various roles, including social work, rostering, client coordination, and support coordination. Empathy is my main approach, and I’m known for my “go-get-it” attitude. My true calling is empowering participants and my team, providing the support and tools necessary to achieve their goals and fulfil their specific needs.
Beyond my professional life, I’m a devoted parent to two wonderful children, emphasising the importance of family in my values. My bilingual abilities in Arabic enhance my ability to connect effectively with a diverse range of clients. As a Support Coordinator, I’m here to guide participants to navigate the NDIS successfully and achieve their aspirations. I’m here to lead our team and uplift every member to be their best in their roles, driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact in the lives of our participants.

John

Mental Health Counsellor

John is an accredited and qualified counsellor, and is a member of the Australian Counselling Association since 2007, John is a client-centred therapist, tailing client’s sessions to meet the client’s needs, using a variety of treatment options, including Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy [CBT], Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing. John works with clients with concerns of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, domestic and family violence and drug & alcohol use issues.
John is a dedicated, motivated, and focused behavioural health professional, he is a qualified professional that brings a natural ability to build healthy relationships with clients.
Given that many clients have had mental health for a long period of time and some very negative experiences, John works with clients to understand their journey, looking at the clients’ strengths, focusing on the clients’ abilities, not their disabilities, and uses evidence-based supports to help clients regaining control of their identity and life, having hope for their life, and living a life that has meaning for them, whether that be through work, relationships, community engagement, by providing early intervention to connect with mental health and support services, to help reduce the long-term impacts of a client’s mental health.

Indi

Administrative Officer

Hey!
I am Indi, and I am one of the BCOGNITIVE Administrative Officers.
Known for my bubbly personality, I thrive on connecting with people and creating a warm atmosphere wherever I am, whether that be on the phone, in the office or simply with my family and friends in the comfort of my community.
When I’m not busy working hard in the office, you might catch me on the football field, revelling in the camaraderie of the game. Sports, especially AFL, have taught me the value of teamwork and resilience, qualities I bring to the professional arena.
In addition to my love for people and sports, I have a soft spot for animals. This compassion extends to my work, where I approach challenges with a caring and empathetic mindset, always ready to lend a helping hand.
As an Administrative Officer, my commitment goes beyond just managing tasks; I’m here to support and uplift my colleagues and their clients in any way possible. A caring and empathetic approach underscores everything I do, as I strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

Chenoa

Office Manager

Hey there, I’m Chenoa, the go-to Office Manager at BCOGNITIVE, responsible for orchestrating the smooth operations of both the SA and WA offices. I’ve got a knack for organisation that keeps everything ticking like clockwork, earning me the title of the “tech guru” for my prowess in fixing any technology-related hiccups that pop up.
But it’s not all about work for me – I’m a firm believer in balancing productivity with laughter and good food. You’ll often find me having a laugh with my co-workers or talking about what people have for lunch.
When it comes to problem-solving, I’m always on the front lines, ready to tackle any challenge that comes our way. Whether it’s directing tasks or diving into troubleshooting, I’m committed to finding solutions and keeping things running smoothly for everyone at BCOGNITIVE.
I am the go-to girl for anything office related, I will direct where it needs to go or have the information on hand ready to assist where I can.

Ifa

COO

My name is Ifa Saboor . I’ve been working in the disability industry since 2013. My passion is mental health due to my own personal experiences with mental health. I have a background as a family lawyer but pursued further study to find my passion. I completed a Masters of Social Work at Flinders University. I began working in the mental health field after I completed my study and found my passion so much I’ve never left. I have been working in the NDIS sector since 2018 as NDIS Specialist Support Coordinator. I have worked as a team leader at Allied Health team , progressing as to management. I joined BCognitive in 2023 as a Chief Operating Officer and assist with running a multifaceted mental health organisation that wants all of their participants to succeed. Working for BCognitive has helped me achieve my career goals to make a positive impact on the lives of as many people as I can and be a supporter in their lives.

Damien Porter

Client Experience Consultant

Hello, I’m Damien, a 45-year-old family man with three children, aged 16, 14, and 10. Two of my children face unique challenges; my 14-year-old has autism and ADHD, while my 10-year-old deals with bilateral hearing loss stemming from an illness during infancy, alongside ADHD.
My wife and I both navigate life with disabilities—I’ve been in a wheelchair since I was five years old. Drawing from my personal experiences, I’ve become deeply involved in advocating for disability rights and inclusion, Which I can be very vocal about. In addition to my advocacy work, I co-host “The Ability Podcast with Damo & Eddy,” where we discuss issues surrounding disabilities and share stories of empowerment and resilience.
At BCOGNITIVE, I serve as an NDIS Client Experience Consultant, dedicated to ensuring our clients receive the best possible support tailored to their individual needs. I am your go-to man for feedback, complaints or praise!

Brian

Director

BCOGNITIVE is spearheaded by Brian Njuguna, a former lawyer who transitioned into mental health as a recovery coach. Currently pursuing his bachelor’s in psychology, Brian’s unique blend of legal acumen and deep understanding of mental health dynamics positions him as a guiding force behind BCOGNITIVE’S mission and vision.