This month we proudly celebrate six years of service from Uncle Joe Sproats at Wakai Waian Healing.
Uncle Joe is Ngarigo and Australian South Sea Islander from Lifou, with Irish and English roots. Born on Bun Wurrung lands in Melbourne, his journey into psychology has always been grounded in culture, spirit and connection.
For six years, Uncle Joe has shown up consistently for our communities. He is one of our busiest clinicians, a Board Approved Supervisor, and a board member of the Australian Indigenous Psychology Association. But beyond titles, it is his presence, wisdom and steady commitment that define his impact.
Uncle Joe’s pathway into psychology began in a psycho-geriatric hospital in Melbourne, where he discovered the power of connection through something as simple as sitting with people and engaging them through games. That experience sparked a lifelong dedication to healing.
During his studies in the 1970s, he was told that spirit had no place in psychology. That moment stayed with him. For Uncle Joe, healing without spirit is incomplete. Reconnection to culture, Country and community is not an add-on. It is central.
Throughout his career, he has worked across youth services, disability services and community leadership. He helped establish the first Torres Strait Islander Disability Service and later founded Dreamtime Learning and Dreamtime Counselling and Coaching Service, embedding culturally grounded approaches into education and healing.
At Wakai Waian Healing, Uncle Joe brings that depth into every session. Week after week, he carries a full caseload and turns up for his clients with humility, professionalism and care.
CEO Ed Mosby reflects:
“Uncle Joe brings cultural authority and lived wisdom into our clinical work. His dedication to our people and to the profession of psychology is profound. For six years he has stood steady, supporting individuals and strengthening our organisation. We are honoured to walk alongside him.”
Jalyus Jarvis adds:
“Uncle Joe is one of our busiest clinicians. He sees a high number of clients every week and does the work without fuss. He turns up and delivers. The consistency and quality of his work make a real difference in people’s lives.”
Six years represents more than time served. It represents trust built, lives supported and future generations strengthened. Uncle Joe reminds us that healing is collective. It is spiritual. It is grounded in culture.
On behalf of Wakai Waian Healing, we thank Uncle Joe for six years of service, leadership and commitment.We are stronger because of you.