Cheryl Garson
Cheryl is a social justice advocate, disability campaigner, social worker, researcher, life celebrant, and small-business entrepreneur. She has a permanent disability – a closed-head Traumatic Brain Injury, which occurred in 2004 due to domestic violence. Since then, Cheryl has worked hard to regain her physical and mental abilities while raising her two young children as a single mother. Due to this lived experience, Cheryl has become a staunch advocate for improved treatment of people with disabilities, and the eradication of discriminatory practices, abuse, and false assumptions towards the disabled – focussing mainly on the employment recruitment processes and attitudes with the workplace.
Cheryl frequently travels within the Darling Downs region to deliver an incisive commentary at schools and community groups. She provides a much needed conversation about the impact of brain injuries, domestic and family violence, human trafficking, people living with disabilities, and social justice. She is also manages a small business which provides: nature therapies and counselling to clients; S.T.E.A.M workshops for children; and Life Celebrancy services.
Cheryl is recognized for her research studies and publications in numerous health, nursing, and psychology papers. She has also developed the website - ‘Revolt Against Cults’ - which allows the public to freely access important safety information. She is regarded as one of the few leading authorities about cult groups in Australia, and her knowledge, skills, and field work have previously been utilised by European agencies during the Bosnian War. Embodied with persistence, purpose, justice and integrity, Cheryl is an effective leader who is determined to tear down barriers, change societal attitudes, and create opportunities for people living with disabilities.
Cheryl has successfully obtained the following tertiary qualifications:
- Masters of Social Work (Professional Qualifying);
- Master of Counselling & Psychotherapy;
- Graduate Diploma in Art Therapy;
- Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing;
- Bachelor of Nursing.