Our Team
Our team has a diverse group of people who will work with you to determine your goals and together develop practical solutions and personalised health care and help you develop the skills of Purpose, Practice and Persistence when you choose Paragon PsychConnect.
PURPOSE - Everyone is full of possibilities – act with purpose.
PRACTICE - It’s just a wish unless you put it into practice.
PERSISTENCE - A good life is a process not a destination.
We value respect and integrity above all else. Respect for differences and diversity in our clients and our staff.
Brucee
Motivator and Meerkat Anxiety Program Presenter
Brucee is our Meerkat volunteer presenter and the inspiration of our “Meerkat Anxiety Program”. All our clients love Brucee, young and old. Some have even found themselves a Brucee relative to help them manage their anxiety. Follow Brucee’s adventures on Instagram Brucee_Adelaide .
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Brucee loves coffee, chocolate and travelling. He had to do his travelling virtually during Covid-19 but loved New Zealand with Lucee and the Ski Team in 2022. Check out his photos from his Instagram page.
He enjoys passing on words of wisdom and hugs to Paragon PsychConnect clients and his favourite saying is “Write your life in pencil, not pen, so you can make changes!”.
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- Brucee Out Walking
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- Brucee Out Walking
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- Brucee having a Baby Chino
Maria Polymeneas
Principal Psychologist, Clinical Manager
Maria works with adolescents and adults in managing a variety of health conditions.
She has over 3 decades of experience as a psychologist with her key areas of interest within the pain management, anxiety and capacity building arenas.
She is one of the few expert psychologists in Australia in pain management.
Maria is collaborative and practical in her approach to therapy and enjoys complex problems.
Professional Memberships
- Australian Association of Psychologists Inc.
- Australian Pain Society
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Maria loves nature, heights (always wanted wings), the water (check her canyoning blog), all animals (yes…even snakes), cooking and has been a book worm since she started to read at 6!
Videos
Mental Health Month 2024 with Maria
October is Mental Health Month, a time to shine a light on the importance of mental wellbeing and break down the stigma around seeking help. To celebrate, each member of the Paragon PsychConnect Team is sharing a short video highlighting their personal tips for maintaining positive mental health. From quirky self-care rituals to simple mindfulness practices, these short clips aim to inspire and encourage everyone to prioritize their mental wellbeing. So, stay tuned for some valuable insights - and maybe a few laughs - as we all learn to keep our minds healthy together!
Maria is a true food lover - her passion for all things culinary knows no bounds! Whether she’s cooking up a storm in the kitchen, savouring a delicious meal, shopping for fresh ingredients, or even just enjoying the textures and aromas of different dishes, food is her happy place. For her, cooking is an art form, and every meal is a celebration. So, if you ever need a partner for a foodie adventure or someone to whip up a tasty dish, Maria is your go-to gal!
Mental Health Month 2024 with the Paragon PsychConnect Team
Let’s Get Talking: Mental Health Month is Here!
October is not just for pumpkin spice lattes and Halloween decorations — it’s also Mental Health Month! This national event aims to boost community awareness and interest in mental health and wellbeing.
This year, South Australia has chosen the theme “It’s time to talk about mental health.” And let’s be real: it’s about time! Talking openly about mental health is like airing out your laundry; it might feel a bit awkward at first, but it’s way better than keeping it all bottled up and festering in the closet!
The goal of this theme is to encourage everyone to chat about their mental health and seek help when they need it. By doing so, we can smash the stigma surrounding mental health like a piñata at a birthday party — except, instead of candy, we’re hoping for more support and understanding.
Let’s not forget that prioritizing mental health is just as important as prioritizing physical health. Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s like admitting you need GPS directions when you’re lost (and we’ve all been there, right?).
So, let’s spread the word this October! The more we talk about mental health, the more we can create a supportive community for those who are navigating their own mental health journeys.
To kick things off, the Paragon PsychConnect Team is stepping up to the mic to share some of their go-to strategies for staying mentally fit. Spoiler alert: it might involve more than just scrolling through cat memes and pretending it counts as self-care!
So, grab a snack, settle in, and prepare to take some notes — or at least nod enthusiastically while contemplating what your next mental health power move will be. Who knows? You might discover the secret to a happier you — and maybe even a few laughs along the way!
Latest Blog by Maria
Suzanne McKenzie
Psychologist
Suzanne has over 20 years' experience working with injured people following motor vehicle accidents and work-related injuries.
Her area of study in organisational psychology where she has developed skills in emotional intelligence, interpersonal relationships, and individual and organisational development.
She has an interest in pain management, anxiety disorders, relationship counselling and vocational training.
Suzanne is passionate about supporting people in their journey to become resilient and independent.
Professional Memberships
- Australian Association of Psychologists Inc.
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Suzanne loves caravanning with her family, cooking, reading, and living a fit, healthy and fabulous life!
Videos
Mental Health Month 2024 with Suzanne
October is Mental Health Month, a time to shine a light on the importance of mental wellbeing and break down the stigma around seeking help. To celebrate, each member of the Paragon PsychConnect Team is sharing a short video highlighting their personal tips for maintaining positive mental health. From quirky self-care rituals to simple mindfulness practices, these short clips aim to inspire and encourage everyone to prioritize their mental wellbeing. So, stay tuned for some valuable insights - and maybe a few laughs - as we all learn to keep our minds healthy together!
Suzanne is a champion of family and work-life balance! She knows that juggling responsibilities can be a challenge, so she makes it a point to sneak in quality time with her husband during their Wednesday weekly walk. And let’s be real - what’s a good walk without a little reward? For Suzanne and Scott that means savouring a sneaky cup of coffee along the way. Whether she’s chatting about the day or enjoying the scenery, she’s all about finding that sweet spot where family time and self-care meet, one coffee break at a time!
Paragon PsychConnect Gorge Wildlife Park Meerkat Encounter
Our Paragon PsychConnect team members, Maria, Simon, Suzanne, and Brucee (our Meerkat Mascot), enjoying the wonderful experience with feeding the meerkats at Gorge Wildlife Park.
Clients and doctors often ask us "Why Meerkats"? They are everywhere - even on our building sign.
Meerkats are fascinating creatures, known for their social dynamics and cooperative behaviour. Meerkats live in groups known as mobs, clans, or gangs, usually consisting of 20+ individuals.
The team at Paragon PsychConnect operate like a Meerkat Mob. We share the roles at work and provide clients with a Therapy Team (or mob!), not just as an individual therapist.
The Meerkat has become our symbol of the overly anxious brain and used in our Meerkat Anxiety Therapy Program (read our blog on Meerkat Anxiety Therapy).
Latest Blog by Suzanne
Simon (Simo) Tyler
Psychologist
Simon has five years’ experience as a psychologist with his key areas of interest being assisting a wide variety of populations experiencing anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Simon also has significant interest in male mental health and suicidality and has completed a PhD in this area after being awarded the inaugural Alison Milner Memorial Scholarship.
Driven to ensure positive, client centred outcomes, Simon enjoys building the knowledge and practical capacity of those who engage with his services.
Professional Memberships
- Australian Association of Psychologists Inc.
Likes
Simon loves going to the gym, watching sports of all kinds, and cheering as loudly as possible when the Port Adelaide Football Club play.
Simon cannot get enough of snow skiing and spent a lot of his childhood in the Victorian ski fields, somewhere he returns at every opportunity.
Videos
Mental Health Month 2024 with Simon
October is Mental Health Month, a time to shine a light on the importance of mental wellbeing and break down the stigma around seeking help. To celebrate, each member of the Paragon PsychConnect Team is sharing a short video highlighting their personal tips for maintaining positive mental health. From quirky self-care rituals to simple mindfulness practices, these short clips aim to inspire and encourage everyone to prioritize their mental wellbeing. So, stay tuned for some valuable insights - and maybe a few laughs - as we all learn to keep our minds healthy together!
Simon is the ultimate exercise enthusiast, hitting the gym for at least two hours a day - though we can't help but wonder how much of that time is actually spent chatting with fellow gym-goers! While he's all about those gains, we suspect he might be building just as many social connections as he is muscles. Whether he's lifting weights or striking up conversations, Simon is living proof that fitness can be as much about community as it is about cardio!
Paragon PsychConnect Gorge Wildlife Park Meerkat Encounter
Our Paragon PsychConnect team members, Maria, Simon, Suzanne, and Brucee (our Meerkat Mascot), enjoying the wonderful experience with feeding the meerkats at Gorge Wildlife Park.
Clients and doctors often ask us "Why Meerkats"? They are everywhere - even on our building sign.
Meerkats are fascinating creatures, known for their social dynamics and cooperative behaviour. Meerkats live in groups known as mobs, clans, or gangs, usually consisting of 20+ individuals.
The team at Paragon PsychConnect operate like a Meerkat Mob. We share the roles at work and provide clients with a Therapy Team (or mob!), not just as an individual therapist.
The Meerkat has become our symbol of the overly anxious brain and used in our Meerkat Anxiety Therapy Program (read our blog on Meerkat Anxiety Therapy).
Latest Blog by Simon
Chris Robinson
Psychologist
Chris has been working as a Psychologist for the past 6 years with clients from a variety of public and private sector roles and across a range of organisational settings.
He is dedicated to employing practical, evidence-based and client-centred approaches to foster a collaborative therapeutic relationship, empower clients and assist them in their mental health and wellbeing journey.
With a deep commitment to understanding each client's unique experiences and challenges, he strives to create a safe and supportive environment for self-exploration and personal growth.
Professional Memberships
- Australian Association of Psychologists Inc.
Likes
Chris enjoys staying active in the gym, cooking new meals with friends and family, and venturing out on camping trips across South Australia when he gets the chance.
His newfound woodworking hobby sees him spend his weekends collecting and restoring vintage hand tools and attempting to use them to create various things out of wood.
Videos
Mental Health Month 2024 with Chris
October is Mental Health Month, a time to shine a light on the importance of mental wellbeing and break down the stigma around seeking help. To celebrate, each member of the Paragon PsychConnect Team is sharing a short video highlighting their personal tips for maintaining positive mental health. From quirky self-care rituals to simple mindfulness practices, these short clips aim to inspire and encourage everyone to prioritize their mental wellbeing. So, stay tuned for some valuable insights - and maybe a few laughs - as we all learn to keep our minds healthy together!
Chris is all about embracing nature and getting his hands dirty - literally! His latest passion is woodworking, where he finds joy in restoring old tools and giving them a new lease on life. It’s like a treasure hunt, but instead of gold, he’s unearthing beautiful, handcrafted creations. Whether he’s whittling away at a project or enjoying the great outdoors, Chris proves that a little wood and a lot of passion can lead to some pretty amazing results!
Chris Robinson Introduction 2
An introduction to Chris Robinson, Psychologist, at Paragon PsychConnect.
Chris has been working as a Psychologist for the past 6 years with clients from a variety of public and private sector roles and across a range of organisational settings.
He is dedicated to employing practical, evidence-based and client-centred approaches to foster a collaborative therapeutic relationship, empower clients and assist them in their mental health and wellbeing journey.
With a deep commitment to understanding each client's unique experiences and challenges, he strives to create a safe and supportive environment for self-exploration and personal growth.
Latest Blog by Chris
Hugh Gockowiak
Psychologist
Hugh is a compassionate and experienced psychologist who has been helping people for over six years. He’s worked in a variety of areas, from consulting and research to public health, and has a background in disability support and mental health.
Hugh is passionate about using proven, evidence-based approaches to help people improve their lives and reach their goals.
He understands that everyone is different, which is why he works with each person to find the best strategies and methods that fit their unique needs.
Hugh believes that therapy isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” process - it’s about finding what works for you, and he’s there to guide you every step of the way.
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Outside of work, Hugh loves cooking - especially making wood-fired pizzas from scratch (a new favourite hobby of his!).
He also enjoys playing electric guitar, working off the pizzas in the gym, and playing tennis when he can.
When he’s not busy with hobbies, Hugh enjoys spending time with his partner and their two dogs, who keep him on his toes and bring plenty of joy to his life.
Mel Stone
Counsellor / Art Therapist
Mel is a counsellor and art therapist who knows that sometimes, a paintbrush says it better than words!
She’s all about using art to help clients tackle life’s hurdles, discover new strengths, and express themselves freely.
In Mel’s sessions, there’s no need to be Picasso - art therapy is about the process, not the masterpiece.
Whether inside or out, she creates a safe space where clients can get creative, connect with their feelings, and build resilience.
It’s all about self-expression, a splash of colour, and maybe even a few unexpected breakthroughs!
Likes
Mel is young at heart and naturally curious - a real beach explorer who’s happiest camping under the stars, thanks to her bushland roots.
She loves her motorbike, but also her trusty 4x4.
Videos
Mental Health Month 2024 with Mel
October is Mental Health Month, a time to shine a light on the importance of mental wellbeing and break down the stigma around seeking help. To celebrate, each member of the Paragon PsychConnect Team is sharing a short video highlighting their personal tips for maintaining positive mental health. From quirky self-care rituals to simple mindfulness practices, these short clips aim to inspire and encourage everyone to prioritize their mental wellbeing. So, stay tuned for some valuable insights - and maybe a few laughs - as we all learn to keep our minds healthy together!
Mel is a creative powerhouse who finds joy in both art and adventure! When she’s not busy painting her next masterpiece, you can catch her on her motorbike, embracing the exhilarating freedom of wind therapy. For Mel, it’s all about balancing the calming brush strokes of creativity with the thrilling rush of the open road. Whether she’s expressing herself on canvas or cruising down the highway, she’s living life to the fullest and reminding us that a little wind in your hair can do wonders for the soul!
Latest Blog by Mel
Nathan Rudolph
Mentor / Allied Therapy Assistant
Nathan is a fun-loving person who enjoys the outdoors.
He is a qualified carpenter with 5 years’ work experience in small business but is transitioning into the health sector; he is currently undertaking a Diploma in Health at University of South Australia and hopes to pursue further studies in Occupational Therapy.
Nathan likes to help and assist people to create and find ways to enjoy life (even while doing those boring house chores).
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Nathan enjoys outdoor activities such as soccer, snorkelling, surfing, and adventuring but also loves his down time with music, movies/TV series, board games, and time with family.
Videos
Mental Health Month 2024 with Nathan
October is Mental Health Month, a time to shine a light on the importance of mental wellbeing and break down the stigma around seeking help. To celebrate, each member of the Paragon PsychConnect Team is sharing a short video highlighting their personal tips for maintaining positive mental health. From quirky self-care rituals to simple mindfulness practices, these short clips aim to inspire and encourage everyone to prioritize their mental wellbeing. So, stay tuned for some valuable insights - and maybe a few laughs - as we all learn to keep our minds healthy together!
Nathan is all about the great outdoors! Whether he’s catching waves while surfing or setting up camp under the stars, he thrives in nature. One of his favourite pastimes? Chit-chatting with the locals over a delicious pie at the local bakery. Nothing beats swapping stories about the ocean and the latest surf spots while enjoying a flaky pastry! For Nathan, the outdoors isn’t just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle filled with adventure, community, and, of course, tasty treats.
Paragon PsychConnect Gorge Wildlife Park Meerkat Encounter
Our Paragon PsychConnect team members, Maria, Cameron, Nathan, and Brucee (our Meerkat Mascot), enjoying the wonderful experience with feeding the meerkats at Gorge Wildlife Park.
Clients and doctors often ask us "Why Meerkats"? They are everywhere - even on our building sign.
Meerkats are fascinating creatures, known for their social dynamics and cooperative behaviour. Meerkats live in groups known as mobs, clans, or gangs, usually consisting of 20+ individuals.
The team at Paragon PsychConnect operate like a Meerkat Mob. We share the roles at work and provide clients with a Therapy Team (or mob!), not just as an individual therapist.
The Meerkat has become our symbol of the overly anxious brain and used in our Meerkat Anxiety Therapy Program (read our blog on Meerkat Anxiety Therapy).
Latest Blog by Nathan
Cameron Woodfin
Allied Therapy Assistant / Coordinator
For most of his adult life, Cameron has been a professional soccer player.
Recently, he felt a need to challenge himself in other ways.
Cameron has a bachelor's degree in psychology, with a minor in sociology, where he found a love for abnormal psychology, neuroscience, and collective behavior.
He was trained in play therapy under his mentor while still in university.
Cameron loves interacting with youth, so even while playing for a living, he coached 6-18 year olds in soccer.
He is extremely passionate about helping others and will remain client-focused at all times.
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Unsurprisingly, I love to play soccer! It has always been a passion of mine. Besides soccer, I enjoy playing guitar, playing video games with my friends back home, playing board games and card games of any type, and enjoying a hot cup of coffee on a cool day.
Videos
Mental Health Month 2024 with Cameron
October is Mental Health Month, a time to shine a light on the importance of mental wellbeing and break down the stigma around seeking help. To celebrate, each member of the Paragon PsychConnect Team is sharing a short video highlighting their personal tips for maintaining positive mental health. From quirky self-care rituals to simple mindfulness practices, these short clips aim to inspire and encourage everyone to prioritize their mental wellbeing. So, stay tuned for some valuable insights - and maybe a few laughs - as we all learn to keep our minds healthy together!
Cameron may be American, but we promise we don’t hold that against him! He’s our resident soccer star, dazzling us with his skills on the field. When he’s not scoring goals, you’ll find him indulging in his true loves: food and coffee - seriously, he might just be a coffee aficionado in disguise! Whether it’s trying out new cafes or perfecting his post-game snack, Cameron brings his A-game to both soccer and his culinary adventures. Who knew being a soccer star could be so delicious?
Paragon PsychConnect Gorge Wildlife Park Meerkat Encounter
Our Paragon PsychConnect team members, Maria, Cameron, Nathan, and Brucee (our Meerkat Mascot), enjoying the wonderful experience with feeding the meerkats at Gorge Wildlife Park.
Clients and doctors often ask us "Why Meerkats"? They are everywhere - even on our building sign.
Meerkats are fascinating creatures, known for their social dynamics and cooperative behaviour. Meerkats live in groups known as mobs, clans, or gangs, usually consisting of 20+ individuals.
The team at Paragon PsychConnect operate like a Meerkat Mob. We share the roles at work and provide clients with a Therapy Team (or mob!), not just as an individual therapist.
The Meerkat has become our symbol of the overly anxious brain and used in our Meerkat Anxiety Therapy Program (read our blog on Meerkat Anxiety Therapy).
Latest Blog by Cameron
Angela Salmon
Administration Manager
Angela has worked as an Administrator in Allied Health for over 15 years.
We have been blessed to have her agree to be our Admin Manager at Paragon PsychConnect even though some days it may feel like she is herding cats!
She keeps everything running beautifully and all our clients rave about her.
Angela is shy - that's her hiding behind all the Meerkats!
Likes
Angela loves watching Police and investigative dramas and trying weird and wonderful new food (no she doesn’t…. Maria keeps trying to get her to try strange food but so far no luck). She loves plants and is our Lego Queen and you will see many of her creations in Reception.
Videos
Paragon PsychConnect Gorge Wildlife Park Meerkat Encounter
Our Paragon PsychConnect team members, Maria, Angela, and Brucee (our Meerkat Mascot), enjoying the wonderful experience with feeding the meerkats at Gorge Wildlife Park.
Clients and doctors often ask us "Why Meerkats"? They are everywhere - even on our building sign.
Meerkats are fascinating creatures, known for their social dynamics and cooperative behaviour. Meerkats live in groups known as mobs, clans, or gangs, usually consisting of 20+ individuals.
The team at Paragon PsychConnect operate like a Meerkat Mob. We share the roles at work and provide clients with a Therapy Team (or mob!), not just as an individual therapist.
The Meerkat has become our symbol of the overly anxious brain and used in our Meerkat Anxiety Therapy Program (read our blog on Meerkat Anxiety Therapy).
Paragon PsychConnect Gorge Wildlife Park Meerkat Encounter
Our Paragon PsychConnect team members, Maria, Angela, and Brucee (our Meerkat Mascot), enjoying the wonderful experience with feeding the meerkats at Gorge Wildlife Park.
Clients and doctors often ask us "Why Meerkats"? They are everywhere - even on our building sign.
Meerkats are fascinating creatures, known for their social dynamics and cooperative behaviour. Meerkats live in groups known as mobs, clans, or gangs, usually consisting of 20+ individuals.
The team at Paragon PsychConnect operate like a Meerkat Mob. We share the roles at work and provide clients with a Therapy Team (or mob!), not just as an individual therapist.
The Meerkat has become our symbol of the overly anxious brain and used in our Meerkat Anxiety Therapy Program (read our blog on Meerkat Anxiety Therapy).