Nev Jones is a veteran, psychologist and woodworker who is passionate about using nature and creativity to improve the wellbeing of fellow veterans.
Nev served 20 years as an Army Intelligence Officer, during which time he was awarded a Commander Joint Operations Silver Commendation and a US Army Commendation medal for his work over multiple deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq and Timor Leste. During his service, Nev witnessed firsthand the physical and psychological impact of war including the challenges soldiers face when reintegrating into society.
When Nev retired from military service, his dedication to caring for soldiers continued. Nev is now Principal Psychologist at Tamborine Mountain Psychology where he specialises in supporting veteran wellbeing. To enhance therapeutic outcomes, Nev often incorporates outdoor therapy and green woodworking into his treatment plans.
Green woodworking refers to working with freshly cut, unseasoned wood with primitive hand tools. It often involves creating items of utilitarian value and is usually undertaken outdoors, close to the source of the wood. Incorporating green woodworking into therapeutic settings helps slow the mind, nurture a closer relationship with the world, and grow resilience through practical skills.
In addition to his psychology practice, Nev runs a social enterprise called Halcyon Woodcraft which delivers no-cost green woodworking programs for veterans, emergency service personnel and vulnerable people in the community. Programs are designed to augment treatment for trauma, depression, stress and other mental health conditions.
Nev holds a Master of Justice and Graduate Certificate in Intelligence from the Queensland University of Technology, a Graduate Diploma in Psychology from the University of New England and a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) from the University of Queensland where he was awarded a Deans Commendation and the Donald Tugby Prize in the Psychology of Peace.
To achieve balance in his own life, Nev enjoys furniture making, blacksmithing and spending time in his market garden.
Project
To investigate the mental health benefits of green woodworking in therapeutic settings for veterans
Nev Jones
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