Meet the PBS team
Marie-Claire Doren Brevis
Behaviour Support Practitioner and Team LeadWith over a decade of experience in the disability sector, an extensive background in working with children and adults on the Autism Spectrum, and experience working with those living with Dementia, Marie-Claire is adept at addressing behavioural challenges, catering to unique needs and providing nurturing guidance.
Originally hailing from South America, Marie-Claire has called Australia home for the past seven years.. She has a Bachelor degree in Speech Pathology and a Graduate Diploma in Neuropsychology and Neuropsychiatry for Adults.
With her background as a speech pathologist, Marie-Claire possesses a wealth of experience in addressing communication difficulties and implementing augmentative-alternative communication (AAC) systems, fostering meaningful connections for her clients.
Beyond her professional endeavours, Marie-Claire's zest for an active and healthy lifestyle shines through. Her love for sports and outdoor pursuits fills her free time, often spent immersing herself in Perth's picturesque scenery and embarking on memorable travels. Her radiant smile is a true reflection of her vibrant spirit.
Marie-Claire's multicultural background, unwavering dedication to her profession, and passion for life make her an invaluable member of the Mosaic team.
Languages spoken: English and Spanish.
Areesha Alam
Behaviour Support PractitionerWith a diverse background in psychology, disability support work, aged care, and social support, Areesha brings a wealth of experience and compassion to her role. Areesha is particularly passionate about working with young people with disabilities, including young adults and children with autism and mental health challenges.
Areesha's career has involved supporting young adults with autism in achieving essential social goals such as making friends, maintaining relationships and creating structured routines that enhance their quality of life. Her expertise extends to assisting people who live with disability in managing behaviour escalations, low mood, and feelings of loneliness through the development and implementation of behaviour support plans. Areesha's experience also includes providing support for those dealing with conditions such as Parkinson's and dementia,
Beyond her professional commitments, Areesha finds joy in diverse personal interests. She enjoys the art of cooking, revels in playful interactions with animals, indulges in the world of video games and anime, and creates beautiful crochet projects.
Languages spoken: English and Urdu
Nina Henrique Tobar
Behaviour Support PractitionerNina has a wealth of experience in a range of roles within the disability sector working with both children and adults. A large part of her early professional career was in speech pathology where she worked with people with Autism and the elderly, focusing on implementing Augmentative and Alternative Communication and swallowing assessments and strategies.
More recently Nina decided to explore a new avenue to expand her skills and is now enjoying using innovative ways to apply her knowledge and experience to positively impact people's lives within Positive Behaviour Support.
She also has experience teaching Spanish as a second language to children and adolescents.
Originally from Chile, Nina spent time in New Zealand before coming to Australia in 2020.
Outside of work, Nina can often be found immersed in books or spending quality time with loved ones.
Languages spoken: English and Spanish.
Ryan Vallelonga
Behaviour Support PractitionerRyan's heart lies in working with young adults and their families, focusing on increasing independence and empowering them to develop essential life skills. His dedication shines through as he supports young adults to build skills over time while addressing the functions of their behaviours.
With a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Curtin University, Ryan's journey in the disability sector began as a Support Worker for younger individuals. With over two years experience as a Behaviour Support Practitioner, he brings a diverse range of experiences, working with different diagnoses, ages, and genders.
His growing interest in Psychosocial disability highlights his commitment to understanding how it can impact someone's social and cognitive functioning. Ryan's inquisitive nature drives him to continuously expand his knowledge and expertise in this area.
With a passion for embracing multiple interests, Ryan enjoys having a wide range of cases in his load. This allows him to gain a deeper understanding of various needs and challenges faced by those he supports.
Beyond his professional endeavours, Ryan finds joy in sports, particularly football and cricket. He also appreciates the power of music, which brings harmony to his life.
Ryan's dedication to empowering young adults and his curiosity to understand diverse challenges make him a valuable member of the Mosaic team.
Languages spoken: English
Brendan Deany
Behaviour Support PractitionerBrendan has a Bachelor of Health Sciences and has worked in the disability sector for over four years beginning as a Support Worker and progressing to helping clients to access accommodation that meets their own unique needs.
This experience has enabled him to recently move into Positive Behaviour Support. He brings with him a range of valuable skills such as the ability to gather and assess information from the client and their environment, a strong understanding of clinical requirements, and the ability to quickly build a rapport with clients.
Brendan’s personal outlook is to always come into situations with an open mind, and that every personal interaction provides an opportunity for everyone to learn something new.
Outside of work, Brendan is passionate about music and is a huge movie buff who enjoys spending time at the gym.
Languages spoken: English
Jake Watson
Behaviour Support PractitionerWith over a decade of experience working with children with disability in a school environment, Jake brings a wealth of practical knowledge and compassion to his role as a Behaviour Support Practitioner at Mosaic. His background has equipped him with a deep understanding of the developmental, emotional, and behavioural needs of people with disability, and a strong commitment to fostering inclusive and supportive environments.
Jake holds a Bachelor of Social Sciences, majoring in Human Services and Community Work, with a minor in Youth Work. His academic foundation complements his hands-on experience, allowing him to approach behaviour support with both empathy and evidence-based strategies.
He is passionate about using creativity to find solutions that are tailor-fitted to the individual, ensuring that each person he supports receives guidance that is both meaningful and effective. His calm and thoughtful approach makes him a trusted ally to those he supports and a valued member of the Mosaic team.
Outside of work, Jake has a keen interest in sports, particularly soccer, and enjoys leisurely activities such as bowling, watching movies, and dining out.
Tarisa Gaia Lake
Behaviour Support PractitionerTarisa brings warmth, experience, and a deep passion for helping others thrive.
With several years of experience working as a disability support practitioner, she has developed a strong understanding of person-centred care and the importance of empathy, respect, and adaptability in her practice. Her professional journey has equipped her with a solid foundation in supporting individuals with diverse needs.
To complement her experience, Tarisa is currently undertaking training in ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), including ACT for Autism.
She is passionate about supporting individuals to make meaningful changes in their lives. She believes in the power of encouragement, tailored support, and walking alongside people as they navigate their own paths. With curiosity and excitement for what lies ahead, she continues to grow with the people she serves, one step at a time.
Originally from Brazil, Tarisa has called Perth home for the past 10 years, where she’s raising her three sons.
Outside of work, she is a gym enthusiast who enjoys dining out, travelling, gardening, hiking, and reading. Her personal and professional life reflects a commitment to growth, connection, and wellbeing.
Languages spoken: English and Portuguese.