Dr. Brent Thomas brings over 30 years of expertise in adult and geriatric psychiatry, having served in both public and Catholic health systems. With qualifications from Australia, England, and the USA, Dr. Thomas has held significant roles including Clinical Director at
Blacktown/Mount Druitt Mental Health and Director of Aged Care Psychiatry at St Josephs’ Hospital, Auburn.

At the Health Hub in Medowie, Dr. Thomas is continuing his dedicated work in psychiatry. He adopts a comprehensive approach to mental health, collaborating closely with a network of specialists to craft personalised treatment plans that address all aspects of a patient’s
health. His clinical interests are broad, focusing on conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and substance abuse, as well as providing specialised care for older adults experiencing cognitive or behavioural issues. Dr. Thomas also has significant experience in managing Huntington Disease.

An esteemed educator, Dr. Thomas has a wealth of experience teaching both
undergraduate and postgraduate students, and training general practitioners. He is also a Supervisor with the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists and practices privately.

At the Health Hub, Dr. Thomas is committed to enhancing patient outcomes by identifying and reinforcing mental health resilience, aiming to improve overall quality of life through targeted, individualised care.

Introducing Chantel, our esteemed Speech Pathologist at the Health Hub. Graduating with Honours from the University of Newcastle in 2022 with a Bachelor of Speech Pathology, Chantel brings a personal touch to her professional role. Her passion for speech therapy was ignited when her own child required early intervention, providing her with unique insights into the profound impact of speech and language support.

Chantel has cultivated extensive experience across various settings, including clinics, schools, homes, hospitals, community centres, and aged-care facilities, allowing her to develop a comprehensive approach tailored to individuals of all ages—from children to
adults.

Proficient in both standardised and non-standardised assessments, Chantel utilises a range of diagnostic tools such as the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals (CELF), Pre-School Language Scales (PLS-5), Renfrew Action Picture Testing (RAPT), and the Articulation Survey Test. Her meticulous method ensures precise and personalised care plans for her clients.

An active member of Speech Pathology Australia, Chantel is dedicated to continuous professional development, ensuring she remains at the forefront of her field. Her commitment to her practice is evident in her patience, responsibility, and unwavering dedication to her clients’ progress and wellbeing.

Sandra Haynes is a degree-qualified Clinical Counsellor with more than 15 years of experience supporting adults through life's challenges with warmth, compassion and understanding. As a registered member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA), Sandra has worked across both not-for-profit organisations and private practice, providing counselling to people experiencing a wide range of emotional and life transitions.

Sandra has a particular passion for supporting people who are feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or simply feel "stuck" and unsure of how to move forward. She has extensive experience in grief and loss counselling, helping clients navigate the many emotions that can accompany the death of a loved one, relationship separation, major life changes, and the complex experience of caring for someone living with a life-limiting illness, including dementia. Sandra understands that grief is not limited to bereavement and recognises the many forms of loss people encounter throughout their lives.

Sandra's approach to counselling is person-centred, collaborative and deeply respectful of each individual's story. She believes that every person has their own strengths and capacity for growth, and that counselling should provide a safe environment where clients feel genuinely heard, understood and accepted without judgement. She works alongside each client at a pace that feels comfortable for them, recognising that meaningful change takes time and looks different for everyone.

Drawing on Attachment Theory, Sandra integrates a range of evidence-informed therapeutic approaches including Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Narrative Therapy. By tailoring her approach to each person's unique needs, Sandra helps clients develop greater self-awareness, strengthen emotional resilience, improve relationships, and find practical ways to navigate life's challenges.

At The Health Hub Medowie, Sandra is committed to creating a welcoming, confidential and supportive space where clients can openly explore their thoughts, feelings and experiences. Whether someone is navigating grief, adjusting to significant life changes, managing stress or anxiety, or seeking greater clarity and balance, Sandra is passionate about helping people reconnect with their strengths, build hope for the future, and move forward with confidence and purpose.

Christene is the friendly face that welcomes everyone to The Health Hub in her role as Receptionist. With a long history and background in the allied health and medical specialist sector, Christene brings a wealth of understanding and empathy to her front-desk role, ensuring clients feel supported and at ease from the moment they arrive or call.

With significnat years of exoerience in recptionists, administration and practice management roles Christene applies the same compassion, professionalism, and people-first mindset that defined her previous work. She plays a pivotal role in maintaining the smooth day-to-day running of the clinic, providing outstanding customer service and administrative support to both clients and The Health Hub team.

Outside of work, Christene enjoys spending time with her family, exploring the outdoors and travelling.

Christene’s values of empathy, excellence, and a genuine care for others remain central to her work, making her an invaluable part of The Health Hub team.

Lauren Le Compte is the welcoming face and friendly voice of The Health Hub. As our Receptionist and Plan Management Assistant, Lauren is often the first point of contact for our clients, whether it's a phone call, an email, or a friendly greeting at the front desk. Her warmth, professionalism, and genuine care set the tone for the supportive and inclusive environment we pride ourselves on.

Lauren brings outstanding organisational skills and a strong commitment to client service, helping to ensure every interaction at The Health Hub is smooth, positive, and stress-free. She expertly manages a wide range of tasks, from scheduling appointments and assisting with enquiries to providing essential administrative support for our Plan Management services. Her attention to detail and ability to juggle multiple priorities allow our clinicians to focus on what matters most.

With a passion for helping others and a natural ability to make people feel at ease, Lauren plays a vital role in ensuring that every client feels heard, valued, and supported from their very first interaction with us. Whether you're calling to ask a question, attending your first appointment, or needing a helping hand, Lauren is here to make the process as easy and welcoming as possible.

Introducing Nicole, the visionary Director of the Health Hub and the driving force behind its inception. Nicole’s journey began with a personal challenge—navigating the complexities of accessing multiple specialists and allied health professionals for family members. This experience, compounded by the logistical difficulties of travel, fuelled her determination to centralise such essential services for the Port Stephens community, simplifying access to healthcare.

As well as The Health Hub, Nicole is also the director of Lotus Assist, where she hones her exceptional problem-solving skills and financial acumen. A passionate supporter of community and teamwork, Nicole fosters a collaborative environment at the Health Hub.

Nicole holds a Diploma in Business Administration and a Certificate IV in Accounting & Bookkeeping. Whether she’s balancing the books, crafting a gourmet meal, or sharing a dance, Nicole’s zest for life and commitment to making a difference are unmistakable. At the Health Hub, she’s not just building a business; she’s creating a community hub that enriches lives.

Helen is the inspiring Director of The Health Hub, driven by a passion for creating accessible, centralised healthcare for the Medowie and Port Stephens community. With over two decades of experience supporting individuals with mental illness and vulnerable community members, Helen brings deep compassion, leadership, and expertise to her role.

In addition to her role at The Health Hub, Helen is also the Director of Lotus Assist, where she continues her work supporting NDIS participants. Her extensive career includes managing family and gambling support programs, leading psychosocial support teams, coordinating mental health and suicide prevention services, and playing a key role in facilitating NDIS transitions and system reforms.

Of Spanish heritage and fluent in both English and Spanish, Helen connects easily with people from diverse backgrounds. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, gardening, cooking, shopping, and volunteering to support an Aboriginal youth basketball team.

Helen’s leadership reflects her lifelong commitment to community, inclusivity, and empowering individuals to access the care and support they deserve.