About usCare that feels familiar, human and within reach
We're guided by three core principles. Collaboration, Trust and Compassion. We believe the best support happens when people feel safe, understood and cared for.
An approach that's intentionally differentOur sessions are designed to feel more like a warm, supportive conversation than a clinical appointment. The kind you might have with a trusted friend over a cup of tea.
In a world that can feel rushed and disconnected, we provide a space that is calm, familiar and human.
This philosophy comes from our roots in Country Victoria, where casual, meaningful visits were part of everyday life. Through years of experience in welfare, healthcare and aged care, we saw how many people struggled to connect with rigid therapy systems. Next Door was founded to bring something more approachable and accessible.
What we bringExperience, warmth and lived understanding
We offer a client-centred space where you can reflect, share and make sense of what's happening in your life. Our team listens carefully, respects your experiences and tailors support to meet your unique needs.
Our work is strengths-based and trauma-informed, drawing on a range of practical, compassionate therapeutic approaches. We also bring lived understanding. We know what it is like to care for someone through life and memory changes, and we know how overwhelming it can feel. That insight shapes everything we do.
10+
years of experience2
Peninsula locationsOver a decade of experience across welfare, healthcare and aged care
Strengths-based and trauma-informed practice
A deep understanding of human need, cognitive change and older adults
Lived understanding of caring for someone through life and memory changes
Areas we supportWalking alongside you through life's challenges
Hannah Gordon
Founder & Director
Accredited Mental Health Social Worker
Hannah leads the Next Door Counselling Team, bringing over a decade of experience across the healthcare and aged care sectors. Growing up in Country Victoria, she learned the value of connection, accessibility and genuine support, where help was often found next door.
Hannah works with adults aged 18+ and seniors, specialising in diverse counselling models and dementia support. As a dementia specialist, she collaborates closely with geriatricians across the Mornington Peninsula, supporting individuals and families navigating memory changes, diagnosis and the emotional impact of cognitive decline.
She practises from a Strengths-Based perspective within a Trauma-Informed framework, offering personalised, practical and compassionate support.
Hannah enjoys spending time with her family, drinking coffee and finding sunshine at one of the many Mornington Peninsula beaches.
Our teamThe people next door
Renee Wilkinson
Mental Health & Wellbeing Specialist
Renee has a special knack for helping people feel seen, heard and supported, bringing warmth, curiosity and care to the therapy room.
With more than a decade of experience across the community services sector, Renee has worked alongside people from diverse backgrounds and life experiences, including community mental health, disaster recovery, refugee and migrant communities, the justice system, and supporting survivors of institutional abuse.
Her practice is grounded in trauma-informed, strengths-based and person-centred principles. Guided by a strong commitment to social justice and human connection, Renee works collaboratively with people to navigate challenges, build on their strengths and create meaningful change.
Originally from country Victoria, Renee values community, connection and the importance of authentic relationships. She holds a Bachelor of International Community Development and is currently completing a Master of Social Work.
Paul Jarvis
Finance & Operations Manager
Paul is the Finance and Operations Manager at Next Door Counselling & Consultation, supporting the growth and day-to-day operations of the practice as we continue to expand across the Mornington Peninsula.
Working behind the scenes, Paul helps keep things running smoothly, overseeing finances, systems and business operations so that our team can focus on providing high-quality support to clients. His calm, practical approach and wealth of experience are a valued part of the NDC team.
With a background in senior Government and Not-for-Profit roles, including operations, management services and disaster recovery support, Paul brings both expertise and perspective to the practice.
Originally from Country Victoria, Paul enjoys camping with his two dogs, Murray and River, and is one of the few people who genuinely enjoys spreadsheets. We are delighted to have him as part of the NDC family.
Kimberlee
Offsite Receptionist
Kimberlee provides warm and friendly administration support to the Next Door Counselling & Consultation team.
As a local Mornington Peninsula resident, Kimberlee understands the unique strengths of our community and is passionate about helping people feel welcomed, supported, and connected to the services they need.
Often the first point of contact for clients, Kimberlee assists with appointment enquiries, scheduling and rescheduling appointments, returning phone messages, processing invoices, and helping clients navigate the practical aspects of accessing support.
Kimberlee understands that reaching out for counselling can sometimes feel daunting. She strives to ensure every interaction is met with kindness, professionalism, and genuine care, helping clients feel comfortable and supported from their very first contact with NDC.
Get started todayThere is no wrong door, and no wrong question.
We would love to hear from you. Reach out and we’ll reply within the next business day. We’re glad you found your way here. See you soon!