Welcome to …metaphorically speaking
a waterhole for the well-being of people and planet.

…metaphorically speaking is an initiative of Lucy Van Sambeek, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over a decade of experience working in remote communities of the Northern Territory and five years in private practice in rural NSW.  Now re-settled back in Central Gippsland Victoria, Lucy offers a unique therapeutic approach to her practice with individuals, groups and organisations, bringing together the best of Western science and knowledge, whilst respecting and engaging with First Nations perspectives and world views.  Wander over to ‘The Boardwalk’ to read Our Story, and learn about who we are, what we do and how we work.

If you have arrived here because you are burnt out by the stresses of life’s journey, this is a refreshing waterhole of change, healing and growth.  Head to ‘The River Bank’ to read more about our Client Services including Counselling and Eco-therapy, Narrative Walks, Nature Therapy Walks and Therapeutic Group programs.  Our Blog includes useful resources to promote your mental health.

If you have arrived here because your passion is social work with First Nations communities, this is an inspiring waterhole of sharing, learning and development.  Head to ‘The River Mouth’ to access Practitioner Resources, including the Libraries, Blog and Podcast and tailor-made Learning Workshops.

If you are a GP, paediatrician or psychiatrist, looking to refer a client to us, head to our Information page.

Head over to our Subscription page, to keep coming back to the waterhole and stay refreshed.

What’s New?

Wayapa® Wuurruk

Lucy recently trained as a Wayapa® practitioner and will now be offering workshops to bring people back into relationship with Mother Earth, for the health and wellbeing of people and the planet.  Wayapa® is an earth connection embodiment practice based on Indigenous wisdom of looking after the environment to create Earth Mind Body Spirit Well-being. 
Click here for more details.