No one should face MSA alone
Introducing our MSA Support Group
It's finally here! We're thrilled to launch our very first MSA support group, created for people living with MSA and the carers who stand beside them. This free six-week online program is a chance to connect with others who truly understand, share experiences in a warm and supportive space, and get expert guidance along the way. Each session will be led by experienced MSA social worker Amanda Spillare, and you can join from the comfort of home. It all kicks off in early 2027, and we'd love you to be part of it. Register your interest below to save your spot.
Meet Amanda Spillare
Mental Health Social Worker & Group Facilitator
Amanda Spillare has been working in the field of chronic illness for the past 25 years in Australia and in the UK. She has a Bachelor of Social Work (Hons class 2B) from RMIT University, a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, and Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Family Therapy and Mindfulness practice. Amanda is also a Mental Health accredited Social Worker for the AASW. In 2007 she was awarded a Churchill Fellowship, for developing service models for young onset Parkinson's, and has presented widely on the needs of this group.
Amanda was also the former Client Services Coordinator for Parkinson's Victoria (2004-2010). In 2012 she went into private practice and currently provides sessional one to one MSA (Multiple System Atrophy), Parkinson's and Atypical Parkinson's specific counselling support via her private rooms in Carlton and via telehealth. Amanda also lectures and tutors for RMIT university in the undergraduate and post graduate Social Work Field Education programs. More recently she has been working with her beautiful golden retriever, in canine assisted therapies for trauma support and grief work.
Support from people who understand.
What the group is about
This is a space to talk openly with people who understand what life with MSA is really like. No judgement, no pressure, just honest conversation and support from people walking a similar road. Each session is guided by Amanda Spillare, an experienced mental health social worker who specialises in supporting people living with MSA and their families. Amanda will be there to listen, offer expert support and advice when it's needed, and help everyone feel at ease.
Register your interest
If this sounds right for you, we'd love to hear from you. Fill in the short form below and we'll be in touch for a friendly, confidential chat about the group.
Registering interest doesn't commit you to anything. Places are limited for this first pilot, so let us know soon.
01
Register
It only takes a minute.
02
Have a friendly chat
We’ll contact you to talk about the group and answer your questions, in confidence.
03
Join the group
Six weekly online sessions, from the comfort of home.
Joining is simple, and there’s no commitment until you’re ready.
FAQs
People living with MSA, and carers or family members supporting them.
Can I come with my carer?
Yes. You're welcome to join on your own or together.
Do I need to be good with technology?
Not at all. We'll help you get set up before the first session.
Do I have to talk?
No. You're welcome to just listen, and share only when you feel ready.
Is it confidential?
Yes. What's shared in the group stays in the group.
Does it cost anything?
No. The group is a free service provided by Combat MSA.
What if I can't make every session?
That's okay. Come to the sessions you can, and we'll keep you in the loop.
