The Story of DSM
DSM was born out of a noticeable gap in the Mental Health Services in Sydney for Young People (aged 12-25yrs).
At DSM, we believe that we need to revolutionise the way we treat and offer help to Young People and most importantly, we need to listen to their voices.
We believe that clinicians treating Young People need to be specifically trained in treating this age group, as they are arguably going through the largest transition in their lives.
Oh, hey!
Elana Volanakis - DSM Founder
Hi, I'm Elana and working with Young People has always been my passion, which is why I have done so for over a decade. My experiences working with; Young People in remote and city-based First Nations communities, Young People struggling with addiction and in community mental health, have all shaped my understanding and method of working with Young People. My philosophy is very simple - Young People are the experts in their own lives. My role is to help support YOU (and your families/parents/carers) in working through your struggles and in achieving your mental health goals.
So, how can we help?
We specialise in a range of issues that we think affect Young People today.
This includes, but is not limited to...
Anxiety and depression can make it difficult to function from day-to-day. From panic attacks to lacking the motivation to get out of bed. We believe it's important to get to the source of what's going on rather than solely treat symptoms.
Growing up is weird and exciting and hard all at the same time. It's arguably the largest transition you will have in your life (from childhood to adulthood). We want to help you figure out who you are at a pace you're comfortable with! This includes gender identity and sexuality.
The social scene at school can sometimes be difficult to navigate, not to mention keeping up with school work. We're here to work through those challenges with you. Whether it be school refusal, social anxiety, bullying or something else!
Families and relationships can be a large part of growing up and these relationships can be tricky to navigate when you're not on the same page. We're here to help you navigate these.
We know experimenting with substances is something else that young people do. 24% of you will try an illicit drug by age 24yrs, and the average age for Aussies to have their first drink is 16yrs*. We have years of experience in treating substance misuse issues and we're here to help you through to the other side. *Based on NDSHS date, 2019
Having worked with young people who have experienced high levels of trauma, we can help you to process and cope at your own pace.
