I’m looking for help
I’m trying to help a loved one
When it comes to finding a purpose, headspace Kalgoorlie Mental Health Clinician Debasmita Roy has found hers in educating, supporting and advocating for young people and families.
Drawing on her own lived experience of adversity, and the resilience and insight gained from it, Debasmita regularly runs workshops on respectful relationships, teaching young people about healthy relationships and harmful behaviours such as coercive control and gaslighting.
Alongside this work, she dedicates significant time to volunteering and advocacy, supporting vulnerable individuals and families from diverse backgrounds.
Her work recently earned her the Unsung Hero Award in the Family Violence Counselling and Advocacy category at the Australia India Multicultural Awards 2026.
This award recognises professionals and community advocates who support vulnerable individuals and families through counselling, advocacy and meaningful community engagement.
“I feel incredibly thrilled and honoured to receive this recognition,” she says. “For me, this award is not the finish line, it strengthens my determination to continue growing, serving the community and creating a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”
“Speaking with young people about what respectful relationships look like, sharing my knowledge, it gives me real fulfilment.
“I can see that it does make a difference in their lives.”
Advocating for young people
Facilitating workshops on respectful relationships is just part of Debasmita’s role at headspace Kalgoorlie. As a mental health clinician she supports young people and families experiencing mental health challenges.
“It’s so much more than counselling – I also do a lot of advocating on behalf of young people that I work with,” she says.
Headspace Kalgoorlie Manager Natalie Smart had nothing by praise for Debasmita.
“This is an outstanding achievement and a testament to the dedication, compassion, and advocacy Debasmita consistently demonstrates in supporting vulnerable individuals and families,” she said.
After nearly 14 years in Australia, Debasmita lived in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide before finding a home in the Kalgoorlie community.
“I moved here for the job almost two years ago and I really enjoy it here,” she says.
“I chose to continue working in a regional community because the need is significant and access to specialist support can be limited.
“I’ve bought a house here – I am so comfortable working in this community, and I am committed to continuing to contribute to the Goldfields for the long term.”
headspace Kalgoorlie is operated by Hope Community Services under contract with headspace National.
