Joanne Brinsden

I joined Te Pou in 2026 as their Lived Experience Whānau Project Lead, with a focus on supporting the development of the growth of the whānau workforce across mental health and addiction services in Aotearoa. Drawing on my own lived experience, I am passionate about ensuring whānau voices are heard and that services work in ways that support and include whānau.

Before moving into the mental health sector, I spent over 20 years in account management. I then completed a degree in Health Science and transitioned into a career where I can combine my passion for people, lived experience, and meaningful system change. I believe empowered and connected whānau are central to achieving better outcomes for individuals, families, and communities.