No Filters Needed program delivers innovative, trauma-informed support as schools reach breaking point
Recent data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2024) reveals that approximately 45% of young Australians aged 16–24 have experienced a mental health disorder in their lifetime[1]. Exposure to trauma, such as domestic violence, neglect, and disrupted family systems—significantly increases vulnerability to emotional distress, behavioural disengagement, and social isolation.
These challenges are being acutely felt in Sunshine Coast schools, where educators report that students are overwhelmed, misunderstood, and in urgent need of support that goes beyond traditional classroom structures. In 2024 alone, approximately 20% Queensland students left school before completing Year 12[2], highlighting the pressing need for effective interventions.
In response, local well-being organisation Rise & Thrive Co. has developed and delivered No Filters Needed, a five-week, trauma-informed program designed specifically for adolescents navigating anxiety, identity conflict, emotional regulation, and the impacts of trauma. Already implemented in schools including Sunshine Beach State High School, Noosa Flexible School, and Kawana Waters State College and in talks with Noosa District State High School, the program is generating both measurable impact and emotional breakthroughs.
Founded by youth mentor and facilitator Janelle Parsons, Rise & Thrive Co. brings a distinctive approach to school-based well-being that is currently unmatched in Southeast Queensland. While other trauma-informed initiatives exist, No Filters Needed stands apart through its fusion of evidence-based psychology (CBT and Positive Psychology), physical activity, consistent relational mentoring, and small-group connection.
“Our schools are doing their best, but many young people are entering classrooms carrying heavy emotional loads, stress, fear, anxiety, trauma,” Ms Parsons said.
“They’re not acting out for attention, they’re trying to cope. They’re asking for purpose, connection and to feel safe.”
The program’s model blends open dialogue, team-based outdoor movement, weekly one-on-one check-ins with trained mentors, and gives tools and strategies to extend this practice outside the school environment, all designed to build emotional resilience, communication, and trust.
“In a recent group, we had a teen highlight that there are limited mental and health services available, saying ‘We don’t have a safe space or a mental health department’ and ‘They look at you like you are a troublemaker and I’m not like that,” Ms Parsons said.
“We had a 17-year-old from Noosa Flexi say, ‘You’ve just heard me. You said I mattered.’ That’s everything. That’s what this work is about.”
Educators are also witnessing the shift. Often, external programs with fresh energy can play a vital role in supporting both students and staff. Erin Anthony from Kawana Waters State College commented on the noticeable consistency among students since working with Rise & Thrive Co.
“Working with Rise & Thrive Co we saw a noticeable uplift in student engagement and well-being indicators following the program, particularly in peer relationships and emotional regulation,” Ms Anthony said.
“A safe, supportive space was created that encouraged students to reflect on their emotions, values, and goals and engage in conversations about identity, mental wellbeing, and navigating challenges both at school and in their personal lives.”
Across participating schools, 80 per cent of students increased their attendance over the course of the program, while 92 per cent reported stronger emotional awareness and 85 per cent felt more confident talking to a trusted adult. Many also showed improved peer relationships and reduced feelings of isolation.
Now, with schools across Queensland expressing interest in the program, Rise & Thrive Co. is seeking funding partners to expand its delivery.
“We’re ready to go. Schools are asking. Students are showing up. The only thing holding us back is funding,” Ms Parsons said.
“We’re not just running sessions. Rise & Thrive Co. are about wraparound services and putting in place long-term strategies. We’re creating safer spaces, restoring trust, and helping young people stay connected before they fall through the cracks.”
To learn more or support the No Filters Needed program, visit www.riseandthriveco.org.au.
About Rise & Thrive Co
Rise & Thrive Co is a pioneering not-for-profit registered charity committed to facilitating self-healing and the empowerment of individuals affected by trauma through the delivery of specialised trauma-informed recovery programs. Its mission is to be a global leader in trauma recovery, providing innovative, accessible, effective and most importantly, free programs that foster healing and resilience.
About Janelle Parsons
Janelle Parsons is passionate about safe, respectful, thriving and connected communities, and her mantra is ‘Transforming Trauma into Triumph.’ The Rise & Thrive programs have been developed and fine-tuned over the past six years by Janelle who is a seasoned counsellor with a profound personal and professional background in trauma recovery and psychology.
Janelle’s work has just recently been recognised, when she became a Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Award Finalist 2025.
[1] https://www.aihw.gov.au/mental-health/overview/prevalence-and-impact-of-mental-illness
[2] https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/education/schools/latest-release
