Youth and Families Association of Pine Rivers Inc (YAFA) is a not-for-profit organisation based on christian values. YAFA’s Counselling Service are primarily funded by the Queensland State Government to provide counselling for young people, adults and families in the Moreton Bay Region. YAFA strives to support youth and families through care, support and self-development. We are also a registered charity.
Our Values: We value the family, whatever shape or form that comes in; youth, special needs children and the unborn.
Our Mission: To provide to Youth and Families an environment of support, and to encourage positive personal and social development through the channeling of energies, educational programs, counselling and avenues of social integration.
Our ABN is: 88 567 811 835.
Our Team
Sharyn Joyner – Counsellor & Coordinator
MSW; B SocSC (Couns) MAASW, PACFA (Clinical), CCAA (Clinical)
Sharyn is a Social Worker and Counsellor, and specialises in working with children and families. She has trained in using Play Therapy skills for very young children who have experienced grief and trauma through unexpected life events. Sharyn also brings a strong background in working with clients with a disability.
Justin Seto – Counsellor
M Couns, B Soc Sci (Couns), ACWA, CCAA (Clinical), PACFA (Clinical)
Justin is passionate about journeying with people as they experience the difficulties of life which can sometimes seem very overwhelming. He believes that providing a safe and contained environment where these experiences can be unpacked, deconstructed, and examined to make meaning empowers people to make long-lasting positive change. Justin aims to build a strong working relationship with his clients and assist them overcoming the barriers that are preventing them from making positive changes in their life.
Christobel Jhonly – Counsellor
B Couns, B.Sc (Math), Advanced Dip in Counselling, Diploma in Counselling, ACA registered Counsellor, ACA registered Supervisor.
Christobel is an accredited counsellor who is a passionate person and loves to work with people in their distress. She is committed to guiding people in their trouble and helping them to reach their goals and improve their wellbeing. Christobel has worked with children, teens, families, and with different communities in Queensland for twenty years in various roles. A wealth of life experience and multicultural competency provides her the ability to connect with people, understand their path and counsel them. Christobel takes a holistic/client centered approach with each client. Tailoring interventions to fit with the unique needs and experiences of each client.
Linda Latta – Counsellor
B Social Work, Adv Dip Counselling, Member of AASW.
Linda is a Social Worker and a Counsellor who specializes in working with children and families. Her experience includes working with Families in the Child Safety sector. Linda is trauma informed Counsellor who is trained in play therapy and expressive therapies.
Geoff Bongers – President
Geoff became President in 2018. Geoff has a heart for the community of Pine Rivers in particular a passion to help and equip families.
History
To read about the history of YAFA, please click here.