For Josh Hodges, Social Worker with the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) in Grafton, supporting young people through mental illness is about more than clinical care. It’s about seeing the person behind the diagnosis and using this to build trust and connection.
“We work with young people experiencing moderate to severe mental health issues,” Josh said. “That may include anorexia nervosa, OCD, suicidal thoughts, or self-harm. But they’re so much more than their diagnosis. A big part of my role is getting to know the person behind the presentation.”
Josh previously worked in adult community mental health before moving into the adolescent space. He said building trust with young people takes time, especially when they’re reluctant to engage.
“Some are here because a parent or carer brought them, or they’re in out-of-home care. It’s about meeting them where they’re at and helping them see their own strengths, even if they don’t recognise them yet,” he said.
CAMHS uses therapeutic modalities like CBT and DBT but also structured tools like the TAR-3 Wellness Plan to guide interventions, but Josh said the real progress comes through connection.
“As the relationship grows, they start to open up. That’s when we can really work together to find ways to manage,” he said.
Working with families is also central to the role. “That’s a big difference compared to adult mental health,” he explains.
“Sometimes the most meaningful change comes from helping parents understand what their child is going through and how to respond. I’ve seen relationships improve in ways that really support recovery.”
Josh’s personal experience has shaped his career path. “My cousin has quite severe schizophrenia, and seeing his journey through the mental health system had a big impact on me. I’ve always wanted to work in this space.”
Josh says becoming a father has deepened his understanding of the young people he works with. “Having a one-year-old has definitely made me more empathetic,” he said.
“It’s given me a new perspective on how vulnerable kids can be and how important it is to support them early. Childhood is such a formative time, and for some kids it’s incredibly tough. That’s why the right support at the right time matters so much.”
Originally from the Central Coast, Josh studied social work in Sydney, spent time working in homelessness services and lived in Canada before settling in Coffs Harbour and joining the CAMHS team in Grafton.
“I’ve got a 40-minute drive each way, and I actually enjoy it. It’s a chance to decompress, listen to music or a podcast and reset,” he said.
Outside of work, Josh prioritises his own wellbeing. “I surf, play soccer, walk the dog and spend time with my daughter. Just like we encourage young people to look after their mental health, we need to do the same for ourselves.”
Despite the challenges, Josh finds the work deeply rewarding. “There’s a misconception that people don’t get better, but they do. The young people we work with are incredibly resilient. I feel lucky to be part of their journey.”
Picture:
Josh and colleagues Angela Simes and Jenny Morris.