At the Illawarra Women’s Trauma Recovery Centre, we know healing from trauma isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey. That’s why we’re so fortunate to have Alex Mlodziejewski as our Social and Creative Expression Coordinator.
Alex brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for using nature, creativity, and connection to support women on their path to recovery.
Alex’s own journey to this work has been guided by her personal interests and a desire to explore new ways of supporting others. Originally trained as a counsellor, she has spent years working across diverse fields, including equine therapy, adventure therapy, and community-based support.
Her passion for equine therapy was sparked after she moved to Australia five years ago. Alex began training with a natural horsemanship expert to reconnect with her childhood love of horses.
This experience led her to collaborate with an equine therapy business, where she learned how powerful the bond between humans and animals can be in fostering emotional healing.
Adventure therapy also became a natural extension of her interests. With a love for the outdoors and a belief in the healing power of nature, Alex began incorporating activities like bushwalking and exploring waterways into her work. “Nature can be a powerful co-regulator,” she explains. “It’s more just reconnection with the land and nature; it can be a really powerful resource for people who have experienced trauma.”
Looking to the future, Alex is exploring ways to introduce new healing opportunities for women at the Centre in Shellharbour, including options like equine therapy, whale watching, and paddleboarding. She’s also interested in connecting with community gardens and local artists to create more creative expression and connection opportunities.
At the core of Alex’s work is her commitment to building safety, trust, and a sense of belonging for the women who come to the Centre.
Having previously worked with the Illawarra Women’s Health Centre during the COVID-19 pandemic, she knows that recovery takes time and that just stepping into a group setting can feel overwhelming for many. “The more socially supported we are, the better our chances of healing,” she says.
Contact us to find out more about our services and how we can support your healing journey.
