Sandy Rea announced as new ambassador

April 29, 2020

Announcing Sandy Rea

Very Special Kids is delighted to announce psychologist Sandy Rea as an ambassador of the organisation.

Sandy is a leading practising psychologist in Melbourne of thirty years professional standing and has her own private practice, Sandy Rea & Associates.

She is also Channel Nine’s TODAY show psychologist and has regular spots on the Nine’s Afternoon News. She also writes a weekly column for News Corp Australia’s Saturday Herald Sun in Melbourne.

As a Melbourne local, she is familiar with the work of Very Special Kids and has driven passed it for years on her commute to her practise in Malvern.

She says she was excited to be approached to be an ambassador because of her speciality and interest in mental health and the importance of providing services like ours to families in need.

“The timing to be asked as ambassador was perfect. As a recognised specialist, being a Fellow of the College of Educational and Developmental Psychologist, I have spent many years working with children, adolescents, families and adults. My understanding of mental health, along with multiple qualifications, my delight in working with families combined with a media presence seemed a perfect combination to be representing VSK in whichever way they need me. I embrace this as a great opportunity to give back to an organisation that holds a special place in the hearts of many Victorians,” she said.

Sandy’s role as ambassador will be to advocate, and promote, the vital work of Very Special Kids.

Very Special Kids Chief Executive Officer, Michael Wasley, said the entire team is excited to have Sandy on board.

“What is so evident when you meet Sandy is her authentic enthusiasm for what we do and why we exist. She has a unique insight, and understanding, into what we do through her profession and, mutually, we are looking forward to learning from her as well,” he said.

Sandy has been using her media platform recently to put the mental health effects of COVID-19 in the spotlight not only for the public, but for decision-makers and government.

More about Sandy

Sandy has a multi-disciplined practice in mental health, deals with every day issues and is highly qualified, including holding a Master of Criminology (Forensic Psychology). Sandy provides expert evidence in court proceedings for both perpetrators and victims of crime.

Sandy’s depth of psychological counselling includes relationship challenges, family and parenting related matters, adolescent and developmental issues, depression and anxiety. Her approach to counselling offers pragmatic cognitive behaviour therapy with solution-based outcomes.

Sandy has previously worked with Corrections Victoria in the maximum-security HM Barwon Prison and HM Melbourne Assessment Prison.

Sandy is a Fellow of the College of Educational and Developmental psychology and is a member of the Australian Psychological Society.

She is a highly sought after, articulate and succinct media and social commentator with an ability to distil complex matters in simple terms.