About us
ABOUT JOSHUA SURGENOR
Founder – Mindful Mates Social Services
I’m a veteran, paramedic, and social worker with more than 15 years of frontline and community experience. My background includes service in the Royal Australian Air Force and work with the Queensland Ambulance Service, where I developed a deep understanding of stress, trauma, and recovery.
I hold a Bachelor of Paramedic Science and a Master of Social Work from Griffith University, combining clinical knowledge with lived experience to provide practical, down-to-earth support for people navigating life’s challenges.
Through Mindful Mates, I support veterans, first responders, and community members to build resilience, improve mental fitness, and reconnect with purpose. My approach is grounded in trauma-informed care and draws on evidence-based frameworks including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Polyvagal Theory.
At Mindful Mates, I believe mental health support should feel real, safe, and empowering — a place where people can steady themselves, rebuild connection, and move forward with confidence.
Meet Magic Our Resident Golden Boi
Magic is the heart and soul behind the Mindful Mates logo. This majestic golden boi may not have formal therapy dog training, but he has an unmatched gift for bringing comfort, calm, and smiles to everyone he meets. Whether he’s greeting clients with a wagging tail, singing his happy golden retriever “welcome song” while proudly carrying a toy, sitting quietly by someone’s side, or curling up for a cuddle, Magic has a natural way of making people feel seen, safe, and supported.
He’s more than just a dog, he’s part of our team, our community, and our story.
If you want magic present during our sessions let me know.
Mindful Mates Association Inc.
Mindful Mates Association Inc. was established in 2025 as the not-for-profit arm of Mindful Mates. We exist to strengthen community mental health by providing free and affordable programs, Mental Health First Aid training, and peer-led initiatives. Built on lived experience and guided by evidence-based practice, our goal is simple: to make mental health support accessible to everyone in the community. We are currently applying for registration as a charity to expand our impact and ensure every contribution goes further.
