CONNECT FOR LIFE
CONNECT FOR LIFE
NEWS! Connect For Life will continue in 2026!
REGISTER NOW THROUGH THE FORM BELOW TO SECURE YOUR PLACE
Program Overview: Connect for life uses evidence based therapeutic photography and peer support as an innovative approach to supporting those with lived experience of suicide through bereavement or suicidal distress. The goal of these workshops is to reduce isolation and stigma through connection, shared experiences, enhanced coping skills, improved mental wellbeing, health literacy, strengthening support networks and reducing risk of suicide. Participants learn new skills in creative expression and reflection and connect with other like-minded people. There will be an option to contribute to a co-design process and respond with imagery for a public photography exhibition centered on shifting myths and harmful narratives around suicide. This is not compulsory; participants may choose to attend the groups and not participate in the exhibition.
Target Groups:
o 18 years and over.
o Lived experience of suicide: bereavement/ loss; at least six months bereaved or suicidal thoughts/ ideation; must have a support plan/ person in place.
o Lives in SWSPHN geographic region: https://swsphn.com.au/about/health-of-our-region/
Facilitated by: Natalie Hunfalvay; therapeutic photography practitioner, Janine Walker; therapist, Jessica Rasche; therapist.
Key Information:
o Funded by the SWSPHN and free to attend.
o Groups are formed around similar lived experience eg; bereavement through suicide or experiencing suicidal distress.
o It is a structured, guided engagement with themes focused on reflection, recovery and help seeking in a safe and supported environment.
o Participants do not need previous experience with photography. The activities centre on fostering creativity and self-reflection rather than emphasising technical skills.
o This is an eight-week program with each session running for approximately 2.5 – 3 hours.
o The program is not therapy and doesn’t replace the need for therapy; it is intended as additional support.
o Morning or afternoon tea will be provided.
About The Facilitators
Ironbark Therapy
Ironbark Therapy, led by Janine, is a place where deep compassion meets expert care. Drawing from her own lived experience of suicide, Janine walks alongside people navigating suicidal thoughts, the pain of suicide loss, and the heavy burden of caring for a loved one. She offers a truly safe, nurturing space—a sanctuary for expressing feelings without judgment. Blending her expertise in suicidal crisis and addiction recovery with a Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy, Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling, and a Bachelor of Business (Marketing and Psychology), Janine is dedicated to fostering hope, empowerment, and resilience, guiding individuals toward emotional wellness and a renewed sense of purpose, even in life's most difficult times.
Folkal
Folkal, led by Director Natalie Hunfalvay, works at the intersection of arts, mental health, wellbeing, and advocacy. We design and deliver innovative health programs that use photography as a therapeutic tool and apply participatory design to address social issues in partnership with people with lived experience. Our work with schools, public health, and social service organisations supports under-represented communities to improve mental health, reduce stigma, and advocate for change. Natalie, Connect for Life Program Manager and co-facilitator will lead the therapeutic photography and participatory design components. She brings over 20 years’ experience in communications, professional photography and film production, along with postgraduate training in Social Work and Public Health, and experience in the design and implementation of numerous innovative health programs.
Jessica Raschke
Jessica Raschke is a writer, artist, and holistic therapist whose work is guided by soul-informed and existential inquiries into what makes life meaningful. She holds a PhD in Culture and Communication from RMIT University, following earlier studies in Cultural Studies and History at the University of Melbourne, and Professional Writing and Editing at RMIT. Jessica completed her training in Holistic Counselling and Psychotherapy with Metavision Institute in 2023, a deeply transformational experience that now underpins her private practice. Born in Melbourne and now based in the Southern Highlands of NSW, Jessica has worked across a diverse range of professional settings including tertiary and community education, writing and editing, research, grief and death literacy, and creative consultancy.