The design is finalised for the new Child and Youth Mental Health Services (CYMHS) fit-out at Proxima, shaped by those who will work and receive care within the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct space. At the centre of it all is Emma Hawkins, a clinical lead driven by a passion for breaking barriers in health care. Her approach is empathetic, solutions-focused and built on a deep understanding of how early mental health care changes lives.
To kick things off, tell us about your career journey.
I’ve worked across Queensland Health and the non-government sector during the past 24 years in a range of clinical and leadership positions. I have a professional interest in roles that challenge traditional models of health care and bring evidence-based practices to life. I enjoy working alongside clinicians and decision makers to improve care, and to promote the value of nursing and community care across many different settings and levels of practice.
What attracted you to CYMHS?
In previous positions I observed how experiences in early life can profoundly impact a person's lifelong mental health, and the positive impact that timely, accessible and appropriate mental health services can have on young people and their families.
This led me to completing further study and pursuing a position in CYMHS.
What is your vision as Senior Clinical Lead for CYMHS?
My vision is to deliver a contemporary, age-appropriate, psychologically safe and welcoming care environment for young people and their families, which supports our clinicians to provide excellent, therapeutic mental health care.
We want to make sure the CYMHS Proxima design is collaborative, takes feedback from young people and input from CYMHS staff, and aligns with practice guidelines in the youth mental health setting.
What does care at CYMHS look like, and why is this new space important?
CYMHS provides individualised mental health care for children and young people up to 25 years of age, and their families. Our specialised teams are united through shared principles which foster respectful connection, empowerment of young people, facilitate seamless transition and offer contemporary, evidence-informed care.
Care environments like Proxima, which are designed to consider the needs of young people accessing mental health care can have a significant impact on the therapeutic relationship, and ultimately the care outcomes for the young person and their family.
What challenges do you anticipate, and how will you address them?
CYMHS has grown rapidly and bringing teams together in one space presents logistical and cultural challenges. Our focus is on maintaining care quality while adapting to change. Success lies in valuing our shared principles and using the new space to enhance collaboration and impact.
What do you do to look after your own mental health?
Anything that keeps me outdoors! Staying connected with family, engaging in my community and making time for mindfulness each day.
The new CYMHS space is part of the Queensland Government’s Better Care Together plan, ensuring services continue evolving to meet the needs of young people on the Gold Coast. Construction for the fit-out is set to commence this quarter.
