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! - Currently unavailable.
Riley Shrive (She / Her)
Kia Ora! My Experience Education / Training I’m a warm and thoughtful 18 year old female, who is Autistic and has ADHD. I am currently studying Psychology at the University of Auckland, with aspirations of becoming a clinical psychologist to help and support neurodivergent minds as much as I can. As someone who is AuDHD myself, I have a lot of first hand experience on the challenges that come with being neurodivergent, and how much it means to connect with others that understand you. This is aided by the content I have been learning within my degree, such as an understanding of social psychology, cultural psychology, and the fundamentals of clinical psychology. With all of this knowledge put together, I want to support neurodivergent youth and uplift them to my fullest extent.
Monique Appleton
My name is Monique, and I’m 21 years old with lived experience of ADHD. I recently completed a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at the University of Auckland and am working towards becoming a Psychologist. I am currently volunteering in the community as a support companion and conversation partner for people who have had a stroke. Through both my psychology studies and my personal experience managing ADHD, I have developed an understanding of the experiences of neurodiverse individuals and the ways this can impact mental health and wellbeing. I interact with others warmly and respectfully, and I am passionate about creating an environment where people feel heard, understood, and comfortable being themselves. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, going to the gym, shopping, and spending time with my pets.
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!
Finlay
Hello! I am a 19-year-old AuDHD Pākehā male who is currently studying Data Science at the University of Auckland. I am a kind and honest person with a good sense of humour. My Autism allows me to identify with the strengths and challenges of other Autistic young people. I have completed training in anxiety and emotional regulation for autistic teens/children, which will help me apply practical knowledge in a support care role. I work part-time as a bar staff at Eden Park. This experience has given me the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of people in a fast-paced setting.
Hope Bevan
Hi, my name is Hope. I am a dedicated Social Work student with lived experience raising two wonderful, neurodiverse children who are now thriving adults. Currently, I work part-time as a neuro-affirming nanny for a fantastic family, where I bring compassion, patience, and a strengths-based approach to my care. Outside of work and study, I enjoy reading, spending time in nature, and going on bushwalks. I’m deeply passionate about self-advocacy and the power of individual growth. My goal is to support and empower others to discover their strengths and become the fullest version of themselves.
Francesca Pobar
Hello, my name is Francesca, and I am a support worker based in Browns Bay. I have an Honours degree in Counselling Psychology, and I am currently studying towards a Master of Counselling. As an AuDHD individual myself, I am most interested in working with neurodivergent young people and their family. I am caring, nonjudgmental, and I have in-depth knowledge of neurodiversity and mental distress. I have a wide range of interests including animals, mental health, nature, music, dancing, martial arts training, and swimming.
Mekayla Green
Hello! My name is Mekayla. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree majoring in psychology, working towards my goal of becoming a psychologist. Growing up, I had a close family experience with ADHD, with mental health being the centre of our household. When I am not at university, I enjoy reading a variety of genres, including horror, thriller and romance. I also enjoy watching movies and experimenting with different baking recipes. Fun fact about me is that my first language is Afrikaans, which is a mixture of German and Dutch.
