As clinicians, three key qualities are essential. First, a deep understanding of the neuroscience behind behaviours that can become problematic. Secondly, knowledge of appropriate treatment methods. And thirdly (possibly the most important), the ability to truly hear an individual's story. A skill that looks beyond the spoken word to see the essence of someone, to notice what is not spoken and to understand the significance of both.
Speaking to Fiona Faulkner, our Partnerships and Community Lead and one of our Clean Slate nurses, you immediately get a sense that she embodies all of these qualities.
On paper, Fiona has all the attributes of a well-studied professional, who has made learning her mission, formally studying nursing, mental health nursing and a Masters in Social Work, informally studying various interests from sign language, pottery to yoga teacher training.
Speaking with Fiona, she reflects on her journey into healthcare;“I have always had a sense of social justice, I was always drawn to people who needed help or support. As a teenager I wanted to study social work and that was realised when as a mature age student I chose nursing which was the prerequisite into the Master program, hence taking that route. I feel so lucky to work in a way that combines both my passion, my skill set and in a role that I am able to give back"
Fiona's nursing career commenced in a forensic mental health unit in Tasmania, and it was here that she witnessed first-hand the ability of the mind to adapt and make change.
"I remember thinking, if people can make sense of these situations, when it would seem all is lost, then why do we who seemingly have everything feel we can not cope with our struggles. Working in that unit gave me the gift of perspective and cemented the notion of enduring hope."
It was while working in this unit that Fiona completed her postgraduate nursing qualifications in Mental Health and Master of Social Work. Fiona recalls a lecturer who worked for the Alcohol and Drug (AOD) unit who invited her to apply for a position within the AOD team. She was successful and recounts;"As soon as I switched to AOD, I knew I was home. I owe my career in this field to that lecturer, who then became my boss. I love working with people to see that change is possible. One of the most rewarding aspects of this work is when clients share that they feel like themselves again, that they're finally able to remember themselves and start moving towards their goals. It's incredibly motivating to witness these transformations and I feel so lucky that I get to hear these stories from Clean Slate Clients on a daily basis".
Fiona was one of the first nurses to join Clean Slate. What she immediately loved about the approach was the long term support she could provide to clients throughout their recovery journey.
"I love that clients get continuity of care with Clean Slate. In traditional alcohol and drug services, clients are often handed from one team to another for assessment, detox, and rehab. This system can be difficult to navigate, a barrier to accessing treatment, especially when people are at their most vulnerable.
"With Clean Slate, I can see a client from the very beginning, hear their story, connect with them and assure them that I’m going to be working with them for the next twelve months, and I'll be there to remind them of how far they've come and will celebrate the changes they've made, the insights they have gained. This makes a real difference in their recovery journey."
Fiona's genuine warmth and empathy shines through the screen via telehealth or zoomlines. It's not all virtual though - Fiona takes regular trips out to Western QLD to work alongside the wonderful Armajun Aboriginal Health Team and recently took a trip out to Mt Isa with the Western Queensland Primary Health network team to identify additional ways Clean Slate Clinic can make their services accessible for all Australians regardless of geographical constraints.
Whilst out West Fiona was able to catch up with some of her patients face-to-face.
"When you are working with people for twelve months, you become part of the furniture, these people I work with are an inspiration to me and it is lovely to meet them face to face when I can."
Fiona is a big fan of the telehealth approach. She says that some Clean Slate clients would struggle to get treatment otherwise because of where they live or what's going on in their lives. Many people can not leave pets, family, jobs or property to travel to a detox facility, so being able to do this work with people, in their homes, makes all the difference.
"When you're talking to new clients, it's often a relief for them. They'll say, 'Oh, I didn't even know this was an option.' For people in regional areas, the receptionist at the local medical centre might be a mum from the tuck-shop roster, or the doctor might play soccer in your team. People don’t want to have these conversations in spaces they feel they may be judged. Clean Slate Clinic provides a safe option for these people.
"Being able to form an alliance with somebody online who can offer support while keeping things confidential is really great. I've got clients who don't get mail regularly, might not have reliable internet, or don't get to town often. For these people, or for those who can't leave home for whatever reason, this service is invaluable."
Fiona's long career working in various health environments means she is no stranger to unhelpful emotions and problematic behaviour or substance dependence. She believes for some people it is helpful to experiment with different strategies to cope with these issues and client feedback indicates she excels at providing a judgment-free environment for people to share their stories and do the work.
"I always ask clients what benefits they've experienced from abstinence," Fiona shares.
"The responses never get old. Clients report increased mental clarity, waking up energised, reduced anxiety, better sleep, and even significant weight loss. One client told me they feel like a kid on Christmas morning when they wake up now. Another said they can finally take road trips again, they are no longer anxious about being on a highway. Alcohol and other substance use can keep you from enjoying certain aspects of life and it’s incredibly rewarding to hear these milestones along people’s journey."
While all stories are different, the common thread is the resilience that clients develop.
"Developing the ability to cope with cravings has a broader impact. If you can sit through that discomfort, it strengthens your ability to cope in other situations. Change doesn't happen in isolation. One change creates a ripple effect, impacting various areas of life. I really enjoy exploring this process with clients, unpacking how their growth in one area positively influences others."
When asked about the potential for cultural change in Australia regarding alcohol consumption, Fiona is optimistic. Despite the deeply ingrained drinking culture, she sees positive signs through her interactions with patients and the growing awareness of programs like Clean Slate. The rise in popularity of zero-alcohol drinks also indicates a shift in societal attitudes towards alcohol consumption.
Fiona's career path, starting later in life after raising a family, has given her a wealth of life experience that complements her extensive studies. Her knowledge of AOD is impressive, but it's her ability to connect with individuals and offer hope that truly sets her apart.
Fiona's words of wisdom resonate deeply: "Trust the process, take it one moment at a time, and believe that change is possible."
This simple yet profound advice encapsulates her approach to recovery, offering hope and encouragement to those on their journey to sobriety. It's a testament to Fiona's compassionate nature and her unwavering belief in the potential for transformation that lies within each of her clients.
What Fiona is Reading:
Fiona's Favourite Guided Meditation:
Fiona's Suggested Bedtime Routine:
Where's Home?
"Mostly Hobart, but I am always getting on a plane, I love to travel and visit family."
Fiona's Pets?
Sadie and Hazel… poodle cross queens.
But her favourites really are the chickens… Bonnie, Clyde, Melissa, Simone and Lucky.
Answer me this
Mountains or Sea?
"I need to be able to get in the ocean, but I am planning to hike Lake Rhona this summer… so maybe both."
Best thing today?
"My chickens, hands down the best thing every day! But today the neighbour's sheep came up onto my veranda to say hello, that was pretty cool."
Your Superpower?
"My imagination and once I decide to do something, I do it… I might be slow, it might take a long time but if I say I will, I will."
Opmerkingen