In the 5 years since psychologist Melissa Harrison left her job to create a 'centre of clinical excellence in psychological treatment for her local community', Nudge Psychological Assessment and Consulting is a thriving clinical practice. The business is based in Busselton and services the entire south west region. Husband Dr Justin Harrison also works in the practice.

Nudge is a private psychology practice offering services in the assessment and treatment of mild to moderate mental health disorders, relationship counselling, and parental skills training in the management of child behavioural issues. Nudge works closely with GPs to ensure the best outcomes for patients.

Overall, the nine award category winners represented four regions of the state, including businesses from Vasse, Margaret River, Bunbury, Denmark, Katanning, Exmouth and Derby.

Finalists from all nine regions ranged from craft brewers to retailers, vets, rum distillers and tourism operators.

Small Business Commissioner, David Eaton presented the awards. “Owner of the winning business, Melissa Harrison had a vision for a customer-focussed, comprehensive psychological service that would make life easier for clients in the south west, and in five years she has brought her vision to reality,” Mr Eaton said.

In addition to taking out the WA Regional Business of the Year, Nudge Psychological Assessment and Consulting won the Customer Service category and prizes consisting of $1,000 cash, $25,000 in advertising from GWN7 and the production of a 30-second commercial courtesy of Lomax Media.

See the full list of WA Regional Small Business Awards winners.