Support workers
Finding the right support workers for young people can be challenging, and we’re here to help. We’ve met with a range of dedicated support workers who bring personal experience with neurodiversity—whether they are neurodiverse themselves, have neurodiverse siblings, or have attended our courses. Each has been police-vetted for your peace of mind, and we’ll provide them with ongoing training and guidance to deepen their understanding of neurodiversity and effective support strategies.
Please note that these individuals do not work for Rainbow House; any engagement will be a direct agreement between you and them. Rates typically range from $28 to $32 per hour, plus travel costs and additional entertainment costs (e.g. movie tickets) and payment will be your responsibility. If you’re interested, let us know, and we’ll be glad to introduce you so you can connect and make arrangements directly.
Max Gorun
Hello, my name is Max. I am currently studying psychology at Auckland University of Technology and in my third year. I really love sports, specifically basketball, where I represented my university nationally. I also really enjoy watching movies, TV shows, playing video games, and reading. My favourite colour is miami blue, and my favourite movie series is Harry Potter or Pirates of the Caribbean. My favourite hobby is weightlifting. Also a fun fact about me is that I can speak Russian!
Billie Webster (She/They)
Kia ora, I am a student counsellor currently studying at AUT. As an AuDHD individual myself, my primary focus throughout placement has been working with my fellow neurodivergents and their whānau. Having worked with families as a certified nanny for 8 years, my counselling practice has been naturally informed with a whānau-centric approach. I am passionate about uplifting neurodivergent youth. It is a strong belief of mine, that autistic people are filled with incredible strengths, qualities and potential. With the right support, we can learn about ourselves and through community, we can build a life that allows us to thrive, not just survive. It is of equal importance that our support network is cared for. My most rewarding work throughout placement was providing support to my young client’s caregivers. Interests: Painting, poetry, songwriting and singing.
Dean
I am joyfully neurodiverse and come from a family and community of neurodiverse people. I think lived experience creates a positive connection when offering any kind of assistance. I also feel that it is particularly extraordinary when people can lift each other up from within their communities, and I wish to be a part of this. While I am passionate in this area, I also think I can offer skill sets that are complementary to Rainbow House’s work.
Tim Smith
My name is Timothy. I have ASD and ADHD. I have a full driver's license and I have been a part of scouts for 12 years, I like doing a mixture of activities such as Dungeons and Dragons, Video games, and digital art and doing outdoor activities.
Halle Hastie (She/Her)
Kia ora, I am an enthusiastic, compassionate 21-year-old pākehā female. I have just completed my Bachelor of Health Sciences at the University of Auckland. My degree has given me an insight into the socio-cultural importance of health and well-being. My experience as a nanny and support worker for a family with an autistic, non-speaking individual has sparked a passion for whānau-centred care. I love animals, baking, movies, and sports, particularly running and trampolining.
Arush Goel
I bring a strong foundation in clinical psychology and experience working with neurodivergent children and adults. My approach to therapy fosters parental involvement and social skills training, especially in supporting neurodivergent individuals. Currently, I am a PhD candidate at the University of Auckland, actively looking for opportunities to improve my practical abilities in clinical psychology. I am deeply invested in understanding and enhancing well-being within neurodiverse communities. Off work, you will find me running, cooking, or kicking a ball!
