About Us
OUR GOAL:
"To provide tailored support to our clients and find
the support workers necessary to fit their needs."
Our Story
"I worked as a support worker throughout my undergraduate degree for almost 3 years. I was always given those clients with 'challenging behaviours' and asked to give training to other support workers who worked with the same clients. I came to realise that giving training to support workers was a separate role within the NDIS. So, I ended up registering to become a positive behaviour support practitioner (PBSP).
Due to this role change, I thought I did not have time for support work anymore. I had one particular client who had very specific cultural needs from a support worker, and I was struggling to find a someone who suited their cultural needs. I had someone in mind that I knew, who I thought would be a great fit for this client and they also wanted to get into support work. At this point, I had worked in the industry for about 3 years and had already begun practicing as a PBSP, so I thought I would be able to step in and help provide support for this client to have their support needs met in a culturally appropriate way.
Since then, Adapticare has taken off, with too many "word-of-mouth" referrals than I could manage. I began having to turn people away because I could not manage all of the workers and participants on my own. I felt so sad having to turn away clients who desperately needed support and who had very negative experiences with previous providers, so Gene came onboard to assist with the case load, so that we no longer had to turn away people in need of support. Together, we are creating something great for our clients."
Isabella Carter - Director
What makes AdaptiCare unique is that both Isbella and I have relevant degrees in the field. We didn't just start this company for the sole purpose of making a profit. This is a career path that we consciously chose to get into. We love helping people and strive to put the needs of our clients first. We are also registered PBSPs. We strive to create a work culture which is inclusive, consistent and supportive, while maintaining appropriate client worker relationships and boundaries.
Gene Handyside - Director
Why Us?
Meet The Team
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Isabella Carter
DIRECTOR
- Bachelor of Justice
- Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology)
- Advanced Graduate Diploma in Psychology
- Registration as a proficient Behaviour Support Practitioner
BIO:
I worked as a support worker throughout my undergraduate degree for almost 3 years. I was always given those clients with 'challenging behaviours' and asked to give training to other support workers who worked with the same clients. I came to realise that giving training to support workers was a separate role within the NDIS. So, I ended up registering to become a positive behaviour support practitioner (PBSP). Due to this role change, I thought I did not have time for support work anymore. I had one particular client who had very specific cultural needs within a support worker and was struggling to find a worker who suited their cultural needs. I had someone in mind that I knew, who I thought would be a great fit for this client and they wanted to get into support work, however knew nothing about NDIS. At this point, I had worked in the industry for about 3 years and had already begun practicing as a PBSP, so I thought I would be able to step in and help provide support for this client to have their support needs met in a culturally appropriate way. Since then, AdaptiCare has taken off, with too many word of mouth referrals than I could manage. I began having to turn people away because I could not manage all of the workers and participants on my own. I felt so sad having to turn away clients who desperately needed support and had very negative past experience with previous providers so I brought on Gene to support me with the case load, so that we no longer had to turn away people in need of support.
Gene Handyside
DIRECTOR
- Diploma or Counselling
- Bachelor of Counselling (Minor in Coaching>
- Domestic Violence Training
- Hope and Healing Training
- Theraputic Crisis Intervention Training
- Registration as a core Behaviour Support Practitioner
BIO:
Gene is an experienced and compassionate counsellor with extensive expertise in working with complex trauma. Over the years, he has dedicated his career to supporting individuals through some of their most difficult challenges. Gene’s journey into the helping profession began after he spent years honing his skills in sales and marketing, where he developed a deep understanding of people, communication, and building meaningful relationships. This unique background has provided him with invaluable insight into human behavior, which he now uses to help others navigate their personal struggles and healing journeys.
Gene has worked in various support roles, where he has been instrumental in providing care, guidance, and advocacy for individuals facing complex trauma. His ability to build trust and provide tailored therapeutic support has made him a go-to resource for those in need. His leadership and dedication have earned him numerous opportunities to mentor and train both individuals and groups, helping others to grow in their own careers and personal development.
Having held multiple leadership roles, Gene is now the Director of a company that focuses on empowering individuals and fostering environments of healing and growth. His leadership style is rooted in empathy, respect, and a commitment to making a positive difference. Gene’s wealth of experience in both the helping profession and business management allows him to bridge the gap between organizational needs and the human side of care, ensuring that every aspect of the company operates with the utmost integrity and compassion.
As a mentor and trainer, Gene’s impact extends beyond his direct work with clients. He is passionate about developing future leaders and professionals in the helping field, imparting the knowledge, skills, and values necessary for creating lasting positive change.
Dallyn
I’m passionate about the arts, especially dancing, particularly: hip-hop, breakdancing, locking, popping, and choreography. I also enjoy teaching these styles. In addition to dance, I create music through producing, mixing, and vocal engineering, and I love writing and performing. I stay active through various sports, including basketball, volleyball, soccer, and football. I also enjoy going to the gym. My involvement in my community is important to me, and I participate actively in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Eithen
I’m passionate about reading, writing, and cooking, and I love staying active at the gym. I enjoy making iMovies and watching shows like Bluey and Harry Potter, as well as spending time at the beach, bowling, and going on long walks. With experience formally as a support worker in the NDIS industry and informally caring for siblings and cousins with ASD, I've been caring for those with a disability since I was 16. I’m eager to learn new things, make friends, and provide support to those in need.
Fala
Fala is a dedicated father of six, who understands the importance of balance, leadership, and responsibility. As someone who thrives both on and off the field, he’s developed a deep passion for sports, particularly Rugby League, Rugby Union, and Basketball. These passions have taught him teamwork, discipline, and perseverance – qualities that he instills in both his family and the communities he supports. With years of experience as a support worker, Fala has honed his ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life. His approach is centered on empathy, active listening, and a commitment to helping others reach their full potential. He believes that every challenge is an opportunity for growth, and he leads by example, always encouraging those around him to rise to their best. Fala’s leadership is not just about guiding others but also about creating a positive, supportive environment where everyone feels valued. Whether he's coaching a team or mentoring individuals in need of guidance, his influence empowers others to achieve their goals and improve their lives. Through his experience as both a father and a support worker, Fala is a compassionate, seasoned leader who inspires others to face life's challenges with strength, determination, and a sense of community.
Melvin
I’m a passionate enthusiast of board games, video games, and a variety of sports including rugby, NFL, basketball, soccer, and cricket. I love going bowling, visiting arcades, building lego, and enjoying virtual reality experiences. Whether it's attending concerts, sports events, or community gatherings, I thrive in social settings. I also value spirituality and enjoy both dining out and home-cooked meals. My future career goals include becoming a long-term support worker or youth worker, with aspirations to transition into a human resources or leadership role later in life.
Talisha
I’m a passionate foodie who loves trying new restaurants and recipes. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, painting, gardening, swimming, and outdoor activities. I have a caring and calm nature and take pleasure in getting to know people, particularly those who are often marginalized. I aspire to build a career in the mental health industry as a psychologist. I am currently completing my bachelor degree is Psychology, which has positively shaped my experiences in caring for others within the disability sector. Sadly, I’m allergic to cats and dogs, but I have a golden retriever who I adore so much that I’ve decided to embrace the sniffles and sneezes as part of our love story. Who needs clear sinuses when you have a furry best friend?
Tups
I'm a sports fanatic who loves everything from the NBA to rugby and tennis. Basically, if it involves a ball, I’m in! I love music, listening to it and singing. I often go on long nature walks while staying active at the gym. I even survived 75 hard once! In my downtime, I enjoy playing video games, board games, and trivia, as well as diving into a good book. One day, I would love to start up my own youth work business, that would be the dream.
Kyanna
I'm just a kiwi who loves cooking and eating. I love to travel and have already explored a number of international countries already! Being semi-fluent in Spanish has helped with my travel. I also enjoy playing netball. I aspire to build a career in psychology and have a kind, calm nature. With experience in formal disability support, I’ve also helped care for my cousin with ASD level 3, which has shaped my understanding and compassion in this field. Oh, and I have some cleaning experience too—because who doesn’t appreciate a tidy space?
Veluriah
I’m a dedicated Disability Support Worker with over two and a half years of experience under the NDIS, specializing in SIL, community access, personal care, and medication assistance. I plan to pursue a Bachelor of Business Administration to achieve my goal of running my own business. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, volleyball, painting, arts and crafts, and traveling—I’ve visited six countries and hope to explore more.
Sally
I love painting, writing, cooking, and potting plants. Family, natural health, and movies—especially *NCIS*, *Pride and Prejudice*, and *The Lord of the Rings*—are important to me. I enjoy trying new foods and staying active. As a mother and support worker, I’m studying counseling, BSP training, and Anatomy & Physiology. Committed to personal growth, I aim to empower others and embrace lifelong learning.
Dana
I love spending time outdoors, whether it’s hiking, swimming, or camping. Board games are a favorite pastime, but my biggest love is food! With over five years of experience in NDIS homes, I’m committed to supporting others in their growth and development. Seeing people thrive and appreciating life’s small but meaningful moments brings me the greatest fulfillment.
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Davina
I love playing the guitar and ukulele, exploring new places, and trying different foods. I’m a big Harry Potter fan and can never resist a good rom-com. As a social butterfly, I enjoy being out and about, helping others, and spending time outdoors, whether it's hiking or taking trips to the beach. Having a family member with special needs has given me valuable experience in providing care and support, helping them stay active in the community. My goal is to earn a degree in Psychology and Business and eventually start my own business to provide accessible support for people of all ages and abilities.