Career Foundation and Early Rolse

Karl Jacks began his career in 1997 as a support worker at a respite centre for children with intellectual disabilities, autism, and behaviours of concern. This role sparked a lifelong passion that shaped his professional journey. After completing a degree in Learning Disability Nursing in the UK in 2001, Karl went on to gain a Postgraduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing and a Diploma in Community Mental Health. He served in a range of senior roles in the UK, including Nurse, Manager, Modern Matron, and Hospital Director in specialist services for individuals with intellectual disability, autism, and brain injury.

Move to Australia and Sector Reform

In 2009, Karl relocated to Australia with his family and began working for Disability Services’ Specialist Response Service (SRS). His role focused on reducing restrictive practices and fostering a culture of positive change. He co-developed practical tools and resources to improve quality of life and promote dignity in care. Among these were a behaviour analysis tool, a CBT-based anger management program for people with intellectual disabilities, and a sensory awareness workshop. These initiatives are still in use and continue to evolve within the specialist service framework at PoDDSS.

Therapeutic Focus and Training

Motivated by the widespread underestimation of trauma's impact, Karl shifted his professional focus toward trauma treatment. He has since developed and delivered advanced trauma-informed training to a wide audience, including psychiatrists, GPs, psychologists, therapists, teachers, police, and frontline workers. His commitment to trauma support earned him several accolades, including Townsville University Hospital’s 2015 Mental Health Nurse of the Year. Karl was also nominated for multiple national awards, including the 2023 Rural Health Worker of the Year. His therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing on EMDR, CBT, TF-CBT, ACT, ABA, and other modalities.

Current Roles and Continued Passion

Karl delivers trauma masterclass workshops and provides specialist therapy for clients with complex PTSD through his private practice, Vista Advanced Psychological Therapy. He also works as a Clinical Nurse Consultant (Trauma Therapist) with Townsville Hospital’s Mental Health Service, offering both in-person and online therapy. Despite more than 25 years in the field, Karl remains deeply passionate and optimistic about the sector's future. His ongoing focus is on meaningful collaboration, skill development, and advancing inclusive, trauma-informed practices. You can contact Karl via PoDDSS or through his private practice for consultation, training, or therapy support.