When people learn to understand their anger, it can become a tool for insight, stronger relationships and positive change. In this episode, Dr Tony McHugh and Prof Glen Bates explore how mental health professionals can support individuals to respond to anger constructively. They discuss practical strategies to build insight, helping people turn moments of anger into opportunities for personal growth and stronger relationships. Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes of ...

Anger can be a helpful and productive emotion, but for some people it can impact what matters most to them. Join Tony McHugh and Glen Bates as they explore effective ways for mental health professionals to better support individuals experiencing challenges with regulating or responding to anger. In this episode, Tony and Glen discuss practical strategies for responding to anger constructively, with a focus on developing strong social connections and relationships. Liked this episode? St...

Music therapist, Jason Kenner, and art therapist, Pam Hellema, explore how their disciplines overlap, influence and amplify each other. Drawing on their collaboration in acute mental health at The Alfred, they describe what happens when art and music therapy are practised side by side and how creativity can spark connection and confidence. They also share a spontaneous demonstration of music therapy, showing how sessions can work in practice. Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future e...

In this episode, Senior Mental Health Nurse and Family Therapist, Kate Cogan, joins Emeritus Professor of Psychiatry, Dr Sidney Bloch, and Palliative Medicine Consultant, Dr Adrian Dabscheck, to explore providing support and care for people receiving palliative care. They discuss the challenges of supporting families through dying, grief and bereavement, along with the importance of empathy. They also unpack the significant emotional impact on practitioners in this field and highlight the imp...

In this episode of Book Club, Sidney Bloch and Jeremy Holmes unpack The Death of Ivan Ilyich, Leo Tolstoy’s exploration of mortality, self-deception, and the search for meaning. They reflect on Ivan’s experiences with illness, the reactions of those around him, and his final insights into love, humility, and human connection. The conversation explores the relevance of literature in mental health practice, how it can offer insights into human behaviour, and the ways it can help reflect o...

Interpreters do so much more than translate words. In mental health, they offer support to help clients feel understood, and practitioners to deliver care across cultures and languages. Dr Radhika Santhanam-Martin speaks with Nellie Bi, Blossom Ah Ket and Susan Esmaili about the emotional aspects of their work, the challenges they face, and why more recognition and support is needed. Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes of A Conversation About… by following MHPN Pres...

Culture and connection are at the heart of Indigenous wellbeing. Professor Pat Dudgeon, Dr Abi Bray and Professor Alan Rosen return for the second episode in this two-part series on Indigenous flourishing. Building on their earlier discussion of Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB), this episode focuses on practical ways to support SEWB in both community and clinical settings. They explore how strengths-based approaches, cultural identity, truth-telling and collective healing are essen...

Culture and connection are at the heart of Indigenous wellbeing. Professor Pat Dudgeon, Dr Abi Bray and Professor Alan Rosen explore Indigenous flourishing in this first episode of a two-part series. During their discussion, they explore the concept of Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB), how SEWB is based in culture, country and connection, and how much it differs against colonial and individualistic models of care. They also focus on the importance of truth-telling, Indigenous leadership ...

Supporting mental health in remote communities requires strong relationships, clear communication and a shared understanding. In this episode, Timothy Corcoran (Social Worker), Wendy Hall (Mental Health Nurse), and Josephine Tan (Mental Health Nurse); all based in Alice Springs; reflect on the importance of collaborative care across a wide landscape of professionals and services. They share real-world experiences highlighting the challenges and rewards of providing coordinated, cultural...

What does meaningful support look like for someone living with an eating disorder? In this episode, Peta Marks (National Programs Manager – InsideOut Institute) and Stephanie Boulet (Provisional Psychologist) share insights for mental health practitioners working with individuals living with eating disorders. They discuss early warning signs, the cognitive effects of malnutrition, and the role families and carers play. Stephanie openly shares her personal journey of illness and recovery...

In a convergence of medical practice and governance, this episode’s guests are both practicing medical professionals and representatives at their respective boards: Ava Carter (Psychiatrist, RANZCP) joins Rebecca Loveridge (GP, RACGP) and Chris Dickie (GP Registrar, GPRA). In this episode, Ava, Rebecca and Chris reflect and discuss the importance of trainee and registrar voices in board roles, and how these perspectives help shape the future of mental health care. They talk honestly abo...

How can systems theory help navigate the complexity of mental health work? In this episode, Dana Shen (Consultant) and Seanna Davidson (Systems Change Practitioner and Educator) explore the principles of systems theory, and how recognising the connections between people, teams, and services can enhance practice. Focusing on the emotional challenges faced by mental health practitioners, Dana and Seanna share insights on sustaining wellbeing and providing support within complex systems.&n...

In this episode, Jessica Birch speaks to clinical social worker Prue Walker and shares her lived experience with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). She reflects on her personal journey, the stigma encountered surrounding FASD, and how an accurate diagnosis can be life-changing, offering hope and access to essential services. Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes of In the First Person… by following MHPN Presents. Visit the MHPN website for episode host and guest bios,...

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) is a condition that often goes undiagnosed, yet understanding it is vital for providing the right support. In this episode, Dr Hester Wilson, GP and addiction specialist, speaks to clinical psychologist Dr Vanessa Spiller and parent advocate Angelene Bruce to explore the complexities of identifying and supporting people with FASD. Both Vanessa and Angelene, mothers of children with FASD, offer honest insights into the challenges of diagnosis and ...

In this episode, Dr Radhika Santhanam-Martin speaks with Dr Elly Scrine and Summayyah Olawunmi Sadiq-Ojibara to explore the complex realities practitioners face in delivering multidisciplinary care. They discuss the barriers, professional tensions, and personal responsibilities that can affect the way mental health practitioners work together. Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes of A Conversation About… by following MHPN Presents. Visit the MHPN website for episode host and gue...

Content warning: This episode contains discussions of childhood sexual abuse which may be distressing for some listeners. Mental and physical health are deeply connected, yet they are often treated separately in healthcare. Join Russell Roberts (Equally Well) as he speaks with Fay Jackson and Paul Klotz about the importance of mental health professionals considering the full picture of a person’s wellbeing. They share personal insights on the impact of medication, the value of holistic care, ...

Content warning: This episode discusses themes of suicidal ideation. In this episode, former Victoria Police Officer Tim Peck opens up about his personal struggles with mental health and addiction, offering an honest look at the highs and lows of his recovery. In conversation with Clinical Psychologist Mark Creamer, Tim reflects on his journey of overcoming stigma and the difficulties he faced while seeking help in the first responder community. He emphasises the importance of both personal r...

In this episode, Victoria Erskine (Communication Lead, Equally Well Australia) and Christine Kaine (Operations Manager, Lived Experience Australia) discuss the unique challenges of communicating in large, multidisciplinary teams, where diverse perspectives must be managed effectively; and offer practical insights into building trust, empowering lived experience, and encouraging collaboration. They also reflect on the importance of using good communication in the workplace, particularly when t...

In this episode, Forensic Psychiatrist Dr Kate Roberts joins Neil Cole to discuss the complex relationship between mental health issues and violent behaviour. They explore how individuals with mental illnesses, especially those with schizophrenia, are often overrepresented in situations of violence and incarceration. They discuss the challenges of providing care for this vulnerable group, highlighting the role of trauma and the need for safe housing and supportive community networks. Liked t...

In this episode, Associate Professor Shuichi Suetani is joined by Emeritus Professor and renowned psychiatrist Sidney Bloch to discuss key moments from Sid’s distinguished career and the historical advancements in understanding mental health. They explore how psychiatric treatments have evolved over time, reflecting on the successes achieved, the ongoing challenges, and the potential for future progress in the field. Visit the MHPN website for episode host and guest bios, recommended re...