Mildura - a case study



Working with a local medical practitioner to improve access to relational and grounded therapeutic supports for people in need.


About Mildura - a remote regional center

Nestled as an oasis along the Murray River in northwest Victoria, Mildura stands as a vital hub bridging the borders of New South Wales and South Australia. Positioned 550km northwest of Melbourne and 400km northeast of Adelaide, this vibrant locale holds strategic importance within the thriving agricultural landscape.

Anchored in the expansive Mallee region, Mildura reigns as the prominent urban center in northwest Victoria. Its significance extends far and wide, servicing not only its local populace but also encompassing parts of South Australia and New South Wales. The city operates as a pivotal nexus for an array of essential services, encompassing transportation, warehousing, professional expertise, health care, and higher education.Mildura's multifaceted contributions are further highlighted by its role as a purveyor of high-quality agricultural and aquaculture products. These offerings grace both domestic and international markets, exemplifying the region's commitment to excellence and innovation. In essence, Mildura thrives as a dynamic crossroads where nature's bounty converges with human ingenuity, fostering growth, nourishment, and connectivity.


Challenges identified in Mildura

In this close-knit community, where connections often run deep and personal, the scarcity of accessible psychological services becomes all the more apparent. Residents grappling with emotional and psychological struggles find themselves navigating a landscape marked by long distances and a scarcity of qualified professionals. The absence of readily available counseling options can lead to isolation and an unmet need for mental well-being resources.

The challenges are particularly felt among vulnerable demographics, including farmers, indigenous communities, and individuals residing in the more remote corners of the region. For these groups, the lack of accessible counseling services can exacerbate the already existing pressures and stressors unique to their circumstances.

Efforts are being made to bridge this gap, with community organizations and healthcare providers collaborating to bring much-needed psychological support to Mildura. Telehealth services, community workshops, and awareness campaigns are emerging as crucial tools in this endeavor, offering a glimmer of hope to those seeking solace and guidance.

In the midst of its serene landscapes and agricultural prowess, Mildura's quest for improved psychological and counseling services reflects a community's resilience and determination to ensure holistic well-being for all its residents. The road ahead may be challenging, but the town's united spirit and dedication point toward a future where essential mental health support becomes an integral part of its vibrant tapestry.



Working with Dr Nayna Purchase

Over the past few months, the Regional Therapy Team has fostered a collaborative partnership with Dr. Nayna Purchase, a dedicated medical professional committed to the well-being of her patients. Recognizing the vital intersection of physical health and emotional well-being, this dynamic alliance aims to provide comprehensive care by integrating counseling and psychotherapeutic support into Dr. Purchase's medical practice.

Through open dialogue and shared goals, the Regional Therapy Team and Dr. Purchase have joined forces to address the multifaceted needs of patients navigating diverse health challenges. Driven by a mutual understanding of the intricate connections between mind and body, this partnership seeks to create a holistic approach to healing and recovery.

The collaboration extends beyond conventional boundaries, blending medical expertise with psychological insight. Regular consultations and discussions between the Regional Therapy Team and Dr. Purchase ensure a seamless and well-coordinated effort to offer patients personalized counseling services tailored to their unique circumstances.

By leveraging their respective areas of expertise, this dynamic collaboration has allowed Dr. Purchase's patients to access a spectrum of support that encompasses not only physical ailments but also the emotional and psychological aspects of their well-being. The Regional Therapy Team's specialized training in psychotherapy dovetails perfectly with Dr. Purchase's medical acumen, resulting in a comprehensive and integrated care experience.

The impact of this collaboration is evident in the improved outcomes and enhanced patient satisfaction. Patients under Dr. Purchase's care now have access to a more holistic approach, where their emotional and psychological needs are acknowledged and addressed alongside their medical concerns. This synergistic partnership serves as a testament to the power of collaboration in modern healthcare, highlighting the profound benefits that emerge when medical professionals and mental health experts work hand in hand to prioritize the complete well-being of each individual.

In the coming months, the Regional Therapy Team's engagement with Dr. Nayna Purchase will continue to evolve and flourish, enriching the lives of patients and showcasing the potential of a unified approach to health and healing.



If you are a medical professional working in a regional area in Australia in search of a team of therapists and counsellors that may be able to support your work get in touch.

Regional Therapy's innovative approach seeks to address the pressing need for mental health support in regional areas of Victoria, benefiting not only medical practitioners but the entire community. 

By improving mental health outcomes and reducing the burden on the medical system, Regional Therapy contributes to the overall well-being and resilience of regional Victoria. As the demand for accessible mental health services continues to rise, Regional Therapy is poised to expand its reach, enhance its offerings, and become a cornerstone of mental health care in regional areas.