About Us
Redefining Workplace Rehabilitation for Injured Workers
Our Story
Welcome to My Social Support Network (MSSN), where we redefine workplace rehabilitation by focusing on psychosocial well-being and fostering a strong sense of community. Our journey began with a vision to create something meaningful and outcome-based, a network that would provide value and support for those navigating the challenges of work-related injuries and illnesses. What emerged is a vibrant community of connected individuals dedicated to reducing social isolation and loneliness and empowering each other to achieve independence.
We started the My Social Support Network as a pilot, working with injured workers to design something that they wanted to be a part of that created value for them. What we have ended up with is a network of connected and amazing people that support each other to reduce the social isolation that occurs through experiencing a work injury or illness. our network focuses on building the capacity of people in a way that is engaging, innovative, connected and fosters independence.
To have sustainable outcomes and better possibilities, we work together to create new ways of connecting with the community, and new networks while equipping each one with skills and strategies to boost their independence and confidence for a better quality life.
The Biopsychosocial Approach: The Heart of MSSN
At the core of MSSN lies the innovative Biopsychosocial Approach, a comprehensive strategy that addresses the multifaceted nature of recovery. This approach encompasses:
Fostering Social Connections for Recovery
Our model revolves around the Social Recovery Connection Model, which emphasizes the importance of fostering connections that aid in social recovery. Through these connections, you’ll find a sense of belonging and support that can make a significant difference in your healing journey.
Rebuilding Networks Through Community Engagement
We understand the significance of community in the recovery process. MSSN actively facilitates engagement with your community, helping you rebuild social networks and establish new connections that contribute to your overall well-being.
Expert Guidance Every Step of the Way
The MSSN team is comprised of experienced Rehabilitation Counselors, Psychologists, Employment Consultants, and Special Guests who are dedicated to providing you with expert guidance. They act as mentors and coaches, helping you navigate challenges and develop strategies for success.
Holistic Support for Personal Development and Return to Work
At MSSN, we’re committed to providing you with holistic support that extends beyond the immediate challenges. Our programs offer substantial assistance in self-awareness and career development, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the journey that lies ahead.
Collaborative Synergy for Comprehensive Rehabilitation
Orchestrating Holistic Rehabilitation
MSSN thrives on collaboration. We seamlessly work with medical professionals, case managers, insurers, fellow rehabilitation providers, recruitment consultants, and employers to create a comprehensive rehabilitation experience. This collaborative synergy guarantees that your unique needs are met with tailored support.
Personalised One-on-One Sessions
Recognizing that each journey is unique, MSSN offers personalized one-on-one sessions. This individualized attention allows us to address your specific concerns, provide tailored guidance, and ensure you receive the support you require to achieve your goals.
OUR TEAM
My Social Support Network Leaders
The leaders of My Social Support Network are all seasoned health professionals with diverse backgrounds. We match the best professional for each MSSN Program group and individual rehabilitation program. With a minimum of 5 years of experience in their respective fields, our leaders bring both expertise and empathy to guide you through your recovery and reemployment journey.
My Social Support Network Partners
My Social Support Network partners are Rehabilitation Counsellors, Psychologists, Exercise Physiologists, Occupational Therapists, Fisherman, Musicians, Teachers, Chefs, and Employment consultants that work with My Social Support Network to perform their professional services.
Rehabilitation Consultants
Our rehabilitation counsellors run the programs and work directly with MSSN Members. This is to maximize the independence and employability of each Member coping with personal, social and vocational difficulties due to illness, injury, or isolation. The counsellor is responsible in assessing progress of each Member.
What is critical to the success of the program is the ability for our leaders to be able to work in with groups so that:
- All Members in the group are given the opportunity to have a voice
- All Members in the group are supported to show up to each session as they are
- The leaders support positive conversations throughout all sessions
- Leaders promote independence
- The focus remains on individuals being able to regain access to their own community but experience the ongoing support of the network
Occupational Therapist and Exercise Physiologist
Our dedicated Occupational Therapists (OTs) and Exercise Physiologists (EPs) play a pivotal role in both individual recovery planning and program design and coaching. Each consultant takes responsibility for assessing the progress of every member and ensuring that their recovery path remains the most suitable for their specific needs.
To ensure that the workers receive the most advantageous and timely outcomes, our consultants are able to determine the need for group programs or concurrent employment opportunities
Our consultants actively engage in worksite visits, employer negotiations, worksite assessments, and the development of personalized recovery plans. By taking a hands-on approach, they are able to tailor interventions and facilitate the optimal return to work process for each individual. With the expertise of both OTs and EPs, our consultants possess a comprehensive understanding of physical and mental health aspects, enabling them to provide holistic support to our members.
Employment Consultants
Our specialised employment consultants are forward thinking, experienced, driven placement experts. Our Employment Consultants work one-on-one with MSSN Members and work tirelessly to support Members during their reemployment journey. We have found that some MSSN Members gain confidence after only a few weeks and find employment opportunities on their own but for other Members, more support is required.
My Social Support Network Employment Consultants present reemployment opportunities to Members and then MSSN Group Leaders (e.g., Rehabilitation Counsellors) work with Members to support them during the reemployment process.
Special Guests and Community Connections
Special guests and community connections are invited to MSSN Program Groups to help rebuild a Member’s social and professional networks as well as addressing any barriers to reemployment (e.g., fear of returning to work) to support sustainable reemployment outcomes.
They are chosen based on feedback from MSSN Members and previous guests have included chefs, musicians, small business owners, large businesses, and community organisations.
Our Original Team Member
Dr. Caroline Howe
Founder & CEO
Dr Caroline Howe has over 25 years’ experience in workers’ insurance and care across all sectors of the scheme. Caroline’s PhD, completed at The University of Sydney, focused on ageing workforce transition from a psychological and multicultural perspective. She also holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Rehabilitation Counselling and a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology/Education) from The Univeristy of Sydney and lectured at The University of Sydney in workers’ insurance and legislation, as well as rehabilitation counselling, for 15 years.
Paula Billig
MSSN Consultant and Holistic Health Coach
Paula’s over 15 years in the wellness industry as both an Herbalist and Movement Coach helps her lead our groups with kindness, humor, and a unique perspective on whole-body connections.