NICKNAME:
I have a few but normally either TJ, Teej or Bozo.
QUALIFICATIONS:
I recently completed a Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science at Bond University on the Gold Coast. Before that I completed a Graduate Diploma in Psychology and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Exercise and Sports Science at Sydney University. I am also an Associate Member of the Australian Psychological Society.
ACHIEVEMENTS:
Aside from attaining my university degrees, I’d say I’m most proud of the activities that I have ticked off my bucket list so far including cage diving with great white sharks, bungee jumping, sky diving and climbing Mt Kilimanjaro. I had these on my bucket list because they were activities that I knew would undoubtedly frighten and challenge me, yet allow me to see what my true capabilities are.
WHY DID YOU PURSUE PSYCHOLOGY?
I’ve always been passionate about health and wellbeing and after working as a personal trainer I became disheartened by the health and fitness industry. I decided that psychology would be the best route towards being able to affect change in the industry, especially in terms of encouraging more meaningful changes and long standing impacts on people’s lives and their choices when it comes to health and wellbeing.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO WORK AT BODYMATTERS?
With a passion for health and wellbeing, eating disorders have long been an interest of mine. I admire BodyMatters’ holistic approach and value the way the friendly staff at the practice show such great care and compassion for all of their clients. I am excited to become involved in such a welcoming and supportive practice.
YOUR FAVOURITE QUOTE:
Life is a marathon, not a sprint.
I particularly like this quote because anything worthwhile achieving is a process that takes time.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 10 YEARS:
I’ve had a dream of opening a gym that focuses on holistic wellbeing encompassing both psychological and physical health. I’d love to create a place where people feel part of a supportive community and can learn new skills to help deal with the stresses of life.
FAVOURITE SPORTS OR ACTIVITIES:
Anything with a ball, particularly cricket, rugby and golf. I’m also a keen runner and I like trying anything new.
FAVOURITE HOBBIES OR INTERESTS:
Playing sport is one of my favourite hobbies. I find it a great stress reliever and being involved in team sports is a great way to catch up with mates. I also spend a lot of time with my dog, Snoop. He’s incredibly energetic and hard to tire out, so he keeps me busy. I’ve also recently begun to teach myself to surf and I spend a lot of time at the beach, particularly in summer.
WHAT IS YOUR SECRET SKILL:
My mean fish tacos.
WHO OR WHAT INSPIRES YOU:
The Australian surfer, Owen Wright. He suffered a traumatic brain injury while surfing in Hawaii and had to teach himself how to surf again. After all this, he went on to win in his first pro competition post injury on the Gold Coast. His story shows we can achieve anything we put our minds to as long as you’re willing to give the time, remain patient and positive, and face challenges.
WHO WERE YOUR CHILDHOOD HEROES:
Growing up my heroes were always sportsmen and usually cricketers. The two that stand out the most were Mark Waugh for the way he made the game look effortless and Brett Lee because he was just so scarily fast.
3 THINGS YOU WOULD TAKE ON A DESERT ISLAND:
A ball, a fishing rod and Bear Grylls.(as long as he doesn’t make me eat or drink anything weird).
WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE INDULGENCE:
Taking some time out on the couch and watching a movie or TV series.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE MOVIE:
Shawshank Redemption or Old School.
FAVOURITE PLACES TO TRAVEL:
To my grandparent’s farm near Armidale. There is no phone reception, internet or TV to watch, but there are horses to ride and lots of beautiful sights and places to explore so it’s the perfect place to relax and escape the city life.
IF YOU DIDN’T PURSUE PSYCHOLOGY, WHAT OTHER PROFESSION WOULD YOU PURSUE:
I grew up wanting to be a physiotherapist, so probably that.
