Aimed at young people (aged 15-25) wanting to create positive change in their lives.

We’ll help you form strong bonds with your community and support personal growth through a range of activities at Green Connect Farm – an 11-acre patch of urban paradise in Warrawong.

Led by a local clinical psychologist, the 10-week program uses evidence-based therapy techniques and the power of nature to create real change and build a lasting support network.

Being young comes with many challenges, but this program will give you the tools to turn those challenges into opportunities!

Program structure

The program will run over ten sessions throughout the year, held on Thursdays from 3-5 pm, and will incorporate a range of activities, including:

• 30-45 minutes: Hands-on gardening
• 60-75 minutes: Group counselling following the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approach
• 15 minutes: Refreshments and chatting with other group members

Who does this program cater to?

The Green Connections Program is designed for young people aged 15-25*. Participants will be broken into four groups, with 4-10 people in each, creating a safe, supportive space for you to connect with others and build a brighter future for yourself.

*If you fall outside this age range, you are welcome to express your interest; access to the program will depend on our other participants and group dynamics.

Combining the power of nature and psychology

Our program makes the most of our beautiful natural surroundings at the Green Connect Farm and uses evidence-based therapy principles to help you unlock your best self.

The Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approach guides our group counselling sessions. You’ll complete mindfulness exercises, identify your values, and discover the tools to take real positive action in your own life.

It’s all about nature, community, and personal discovery!

About your group leader

Local clinical psychologist and mental health researcher Joel Hoffman will lead the Green Connections Program, using his many years of clinical experience to support you as you work through challenges to find personal growth.

Over the past ten years, Joel has focused on supporting people from refugee backgrounds in Australia and Indonesia to work through trauma. Before this, he worked on human rights projects in Haiti, Egypt and Uganda. Joel is also a passionate gardener, amateur baker, mandolin player and permaculture enthusiast.

“I strongly believe in the connection between nature and mental wellbeing. I’m looking forward to exploring new ways to foster this connection between ourselves, others and the land we live on through the Green Connections Program.”