An Indigenous-focused mental health service which began with one laptop in a small room in Rockhampton is expanding its presence on the Sunshine Coast.

Wakai Waian Healing is preparing to open a new clinic in June 2026, with four new occupational therapists and psychologists joining the team.

The expansion will support local GPs and service providers with access to assessments, referrals and culturally safe care for patients who may otherwise face gaps in support.

Chief executive offiver Ed Mosby, a Masig man with family ties to Waiben and the Masigilgal people, founded the organisation.

His work has been shaped by a belief that mental health care should be respectful, grounded in culture and built around relationships.

Mr Mosby said the service was built to respond to community needs.

"People want services that feel steady," Mr Mosby said. "They want someone who understands their story and their community."

"We built Wakai Waian Healing to offer exactly that."

Wakai Waian Healing now employs more than 50 staff across Queensland.

Its clinics operate in Rockhampton, Thursday Island, Cairns, Western Queensland and the Sunshine Coast.

The team includes psychologists, counsellors, occupational therapists, social workers and therapy assistants.

Many are Indigenous clinicians trained through the organisation's own workforce development pipeline.

The Sunshine Coast clinic will offer functional capacity assessments, psychosocial therapy and counselling, NDIS support for First Nations participants, telehealth services across Australia, and collaboration with local GPs, Aboriginal Medical Services, paediatricians and community services.

Mr Mosby said local partnerships would be central to the service.

"We are ready to partner with the health sector here," Mr Mosby said. "Our model works best when we walk alongside GPs and other services."

"It is about building a strong circle around the person."

Wakai Waian Healing has built a reputation for its work with NDIS participants through a culturally grounded model of care.

The team supports people to build daily living skills, strengthen independence and understand their plans.

It also works with families needing mental health education, community outreach and trauma-informed care.

The Caloundra and greater Sunshine Coast expansion is expected to support stronger local partnerships with GPs, Aboriginal Medical Services, disability providers and hospitals.

Mr Mosby said the service wanted to support health professionals facing pressure from long waitlists.

"We want to make things easier for busy doctors," Mr Mosby said.

"Timely assessments, respectful communication, cultural safety and clear reports.

"We know what good partnership looks like."

For GPs struggling with long waitlists for mental health or OT assessments, Wakai Waian Healing says it is ready to take referrals.

The name Wakai Waian means "straightening yarn" in the language of Masig.

It reflects the organisation's work to guide people, untangle heavy stories and walk forward together.

As Wakai Waian Healing moves into its second decade, the Sunshine Coast will become part of its broader Queensland network.

Mr Mosby said the organisation welcomed people from all backgrounds.

"Our goal is simple," Mr Mosby said. "Good care for every person who walks through the door, no matter what their background."

"We welcome all Australians with respect, safety, culture and a team that will stand beside you."

Referrals or partnership enquiries can be made to the Wakai Waian Healing clinic on 1800 732 850.

Original reporting by Tom Hearn.