Hayley Roe

Hayley has a special interest in how humans’ relationship with natural systems and environments can support wellbeing and health. Her Honor’s thesis looked at the role of human-animal bonds during the Covid-19 lockdowns, and more generally, biophilia – our affinity and sense of connection with the natural world. 

At the Panton Hill Farm, therapy with Hayley incorporates nature in lots of different ways, like leisurely strolls around the lake, or playing some energetic games with the goats. Or perhaps just finding a quiet corner of the farm to sit and watch the cockatoos, galahs, and kangaroos. 

Hayley draws from cognitive behavioural therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy to build skills in mindful observation of ourselves. Through observing ourselves and our inner world without judgement, we can build a deeper connection to the self and move toward self compassion and understanding. Animals can support this, by creating a warm, nonjudgmental space, and by modeling to us their own skills in staying present and grounded.  

Hayley has worked with clients across the lifespan in various contexts including educational, family, and aged-care. She particularly enjoys working with adolescents and young adults, and neurodivergent clients. During her masters, Hayley researched the importance of education for autistic and adhder individuals about their diagnoses. This research instilled a strong belief that everyone has the right to knowledge and understanding about who they are, and that this understanding leads to compassion, empowerment, and maximized potential. As such, neuroaffirming, evidence-based education is a staple in Hayley’s work with neurodivergent clients. 

In her own life, Hayley enjoys spending most of her time outdoors, going on walks with her whippet, Algernon, or sitting mindfully with her senior goat, Bambi. Her interests outside of psychology include, linguistics and languages, and prehistoric animals.