Intensive Therapeutic Care (ITC)

Healing, Culture, and Connection for Young People

Wandiyali’s Intensive Therapeutic Care (ITC) program delivers trauma-informed, person-centred support for Aboriginal children and young people aged 12–17 with complex needs. The program is funded by the NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ), with all referrals received exclusively through DCJ’s Central Access Unit.

A Holistic, Culturally Grounded Approach

The ITC program is built on a therapeutic, person-centred foundation that values each young person’s unique strengths, experiences, and aspirations. Our work is guided by the Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) framework, which supports healing through deep connection to:

These connections are essential to the wellbeing and healing of Aboriginal children and young people and are embedded in every aspect of care.

24/7 Support in a Homelike Environment

Wandiyali provides 24-hour, 7-day-a-week care in safe, stable, and culturally enriching homes. Each environment is designed to feel welcoming and familiar—where young people experience belonging, safety, and consistency.

Culture is at the heart of the home, with Aboriginal ways of knowing, being, and doing integrated into daily life. Our homes include:

These intentional spaces help reduce stress, build trust, and foster therapeutic, meaningful connections.

Empowering Young People Through Connection and Care

A multidisciplinary team works alongside each young person to create an individualised care plan that reflects their goals, preferences, and cultural identity. Therapeutic engagement is woven into daily interactions, creating ongoing opportunities for growth, healing, and connection.

Young people are encouraged to take an active role in their care—expressing their voice, participating in decisions, and taking pride in their identity. The program supports resilience, empowerment, and self-determination every step of the way.

Creating Stronger Futures

Whether a young person is working toward reunification with family, ongoing care, or a transition to home-based care or independent living, Wandiyali’s ITC program is designed to build emotional wellbeing and provide the skills, confidence, and cultural strength they need to shape their own future.

Newcastle-based Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community organisation