Cath McLaren Social Worker

Cath McLaren – Aboriginal Mental Health Practitioner | Culturally Safe EAP Support Cath McLaren is an Aboriginal mental health practitioner (Kamilaroi) who brings over 20 years of experience supporting people, families and communities across Australia. She understands that reaching out for support isn’t always easy—especially when services haven’t always felt culturally safe, respectful, or genuinely understanding. Cath’s approach is grounded in listening first, building trust, straight-talk and walking alongside you at your pace. Although she is currently based in North Queensland, Cath has worked across a range of mental health and wellbeing services including child and youth mental health, community teams, forensic services, and trauma-informed services in South Australia. Catherine’s knowledge has been shaped through her work and learning alongside Aboriginal communities, and through the guidance of Elders who have generously shared their wisdom. She has also supported people through some of the most complex and sensitive experiences, including her work with the Mullighan Inquiry into Children in State Care. Cath has spent many years working alongside psychiatrists, doctors, and multidisciplinary teams, but her focus has always remained the same—ensuring people feel seen, heard, and respected in their care. She is known for her ability to translate clinical systems into something that makes sense for everyday people, without losing cultural integrity. She has also held casual lecturing roles with University of South Australia and Flinders University - proud to be shaping the emerging minds of new graduates. This means she not only understands the system—you’ll be working with someone who actively challenges it to make it better for our mob. What you can expect from working with Cath: * A safe, non-judgemental space where you can yarn openly. * Respect for your story, your family, and your cultural identity. * Practical support for stress, work issues, trauma, grief, and life challenges * Someone who understands both community and the health system * No pressure—just support, at your pace Cath is also the founder of Magpie Consultancy, where she provides counselling, coaching, and cultural support to individuals and organisations. Cath is currently unable to provide EAP services to employees of Queensland Health due to existing employment arrangements. Outside of work, you’ll find her enjoying the simple things: fishing in North Queensland with her partner Fisherman Dave, spending time with her mum, and trying to transition between G, C and D on a new Tanglewood guitar.