About
Hi, I’m Benn Veenker and I am a lived experience practitioner working across supervision, counselling and advocacy within the AOD and mental health sectors.
My work is grounded in lived experience, shaped by professional practice, and driven by a commitment to reducing stigma associated with substance use.
I have worked across the AOD and MH sectors in both lived experience and clinical roles, supporting individuals, services and systems to respond more compassionately to substance use.
My personal experience of addiction and recovery has shaped how I understand change, healing, and the importance of compassionate support.
It has also deepened my commitment to creating spaces where people feel seen, respected and understood beyond labels or diagnoses.
Alongside this, I have supported individuals and practitioners working within complex systems of care. This allows me to bridge both personal and professional understanding of the challenges people face.
“Benn created a space that felt safe, grounded and genuinely supportive, where I could reflect openly without fear of judgment. His guidance was compassionate, practical and empowering. I always left sessions feeling more grounded, more capable and more connected to the purpose of my work.”
— Will | Lived Experience Peer Support Worker
How I work
Through supervision, counselling and advocacy, I aim to create spaces that are reflective, compassionate and grounded in respect for people’s autonomy.
Much of my work involves supporting lived experience workers and practitioners navigating complex work across the AOD and community sectors.
My approach is grounded in the following core principles:
• compassion
• lived experience insight
• reflective practice
• respect for self-determination
I’m based in Melbourne and work with individuals and practitioners across Australia, both in person and online.
I also contribute to advocacy and public conversations within the AOD and mental health sectors. You can explore some of this work here → View advocacy work
If this resonates, you’re welcome to get in touch.