Tanya Forster has had the privilege of helping many local families during some of their most challenging moments as a psychologist at Macquarie Health Collective. And providing collaborative healthcare solutions has not only been a dream of Tanya’s, but it’s something that inspires her daily.
Tell us about Macquarie Health Collective & your role as a Psychologist.
I began my Psychology career working in Child and Adolescent Mental Health. In 2012, with the support of one of my mentors, I began my work in private practice. I now work with children and adults of all ages; however, I am strongly interested in working with families.
I had always dreamed of providing collaborative healthcare solutions to our community and improving access to the healthcare services we all know are in short supply!
2017, I opened Macquarie Health Collective, an innovative and collaborative healthcare practice supporting Dubbo and Regional NSW. I lead a team of GPs, Medical Specialists and Allied Health providers. I feel lucky to work with some of the most incredible humans I have met!
In the years of being a Psychologist, what has been your most memorable experience/moment?
One of the moments I am most proud of professionally is opening Macquarie Health Collective. I have always dreamt of establishing a multi-disciplinary collaborative healthcare team to support our community.
We know healthcare services are so limited in regional areas, particularly collaborative services, so seeing this dream become a reality was inspiring, especially given all the hard work involved!
Clinically, there are quite a few moments that have stuck with me. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of supporting many of our local families in some of their most challenging moments. It is not lost on me the trust and faith people put in me to help them in their darkest times; I am very grateful for that. I have always been passionate about working with children experiencing difficult circumstances, so many of these moments have stuck with me. Even the most minor win, in some instances, can feel powerful.
How do you balance work & life responsibilities?
I once heard a colleague say her “ducks”, so to speak, were not in a row and that they were undoubtedly free-range.
It's how I feel most days with two small children and a business. The juggle is real, but I have learned to accept that I can only do my best. I am only one person, and tomorrow is a new day.
Your line of work, with all its rewards, some days must take an emotional toll on you. How do you care for yourself when things get difficult at work or home?
I’m well known for my quick walk around the block to clear my head when I am having a tough day in the office. Time to reset with a mindful walk in the sunshine and fresh air can work wonders.
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing businesswomen today?
Women who are not supporting other women. We are all in this together. Another person’s success doesn’t have to take away from yours. Let’s build each other up.
What’s one thing every woman should know about being successful in her career and life?
They say it takes a village, and this also applies to business. I have some extraordinary business friends, and I couldn’t do this without them. Whether it is someone to call for advice or a shoulder to cry on, other women in business get it as no one else in your life can. Find your tribe.
What keeps you up at night?
My children! The highs and lows - great business ideas or worries about my team. Business can be a rollercoaster.
What’s on the horizon for you?
After prioritising my babies for the past couple of years, I am regaining a sense of identity in my personal and professional life. It’s refreshing to feel more like myself once again! I am excited to start working with my clients and families again. And will continue to grow the services on offer at the Collective. As I mentioned - I always dream big!
Location: DUBBO, NSW
Instagram & Facebook: @macquariehealthcollective
Photography: Clancy Job
Website: macquariehealthcollective.com.au/tanya