A coil support apparatus is provided that is configured for supporting a moveable coil within a magnetic field in a voice coil motor. The apparatus comprises a support arm with a characteristic cross section defining a first portion with a thickness related to a thickness of the coil for providing a mounting surface for attaching the coil. The support arm further defines a discontinuous second portion extending from the first portion in a direction away from the coil with a thickness substantially smaller than the first portion thickness. In some embodiments an actuator assembly is provided comprising a T-beam coil support.