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 Presents.

Visit the MHPN website for episode host and guest bios, recommended resources and a self-directed CPD form.

Share your comments, questions and feedback about A Conversation About… or any of MHPN’s podcast series here: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/.

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 essential to improving mental health care and discuss the role of digital tools in preserving culture and promoting resilience.

Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes of A Conversation About… by following MHPN Presents.

Visit the MHPN website for episode host and guest bios, recommended resources and a self-directed CPD form.

Share your comments, questions and feedback about A Conversation About… or any of MHPN’s podcast series here: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/.

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 and blending different knowledge systems to improve on the current state of mental health care.

Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes of A Conversation About… by following MHPN Presents.

Visit the MHPN website for episode host and guest bios, recommended resources and a self-directed CPD form.

Share your comments, questions and feedback about A Conversation About… or any of MHPN’s podcast series here: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/.

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, culturally aware care in remote settings. 

Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes of A Conversation About... by following MHPN Presents. 

Visit the MHPN website for episode host and guest bios, recommended resources and a self-directed CPD form. 

Share your comments, questions and feedback about A Conversation About... or any of MHPN’s podcast series here: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/.

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, highlighting the integral role of multidisciplinary teams in delivering compassionate, coordinated care. 

Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes of A Conversation About… by following MHPN Presents.

Visit the MHPN website for episode host and guest bios, recommended resources and a self-directed CPD form.

Share your comments, questions and feedback about A Conversation About… or any of MHPN’s podcast series here: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/.

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 about the surprises, opportunities and challenges that come with becoming a GP or psychiatry registrar, including technological advances and keeping patient outcomes at the forefront of their practice. 

Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes of A Conversation About… by following MHPN Presents.

Visit the MHPN website for episode host and guest bios, recommended resources and a self-directed CPD form.

Share your comments, questions and feedback about A Conversation About… or any of MHPN’s podcast series here: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/ 

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. 

Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes of A Conversation About… by following MHPN Presents. 

Visit the MHPN website for episode host and guest bios, recommended resources and a self-directed CPD form. 

Share your comments, questions and feedback about A Conversation About… or any of MHPN’s podcast series here: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/ 

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, recommended resources and a self-directed CPD form.

Share your comments, questions and feedback about In the First Person or any of MHPN’s podcast series here: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/ 

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 raising children with FASD. They discuss the gaps in professional education, early intervention strategies, and the importance of appropriate support systems.

Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes of A Conversation About … by following MHPN Presents.

Visit the MHPN website for episode host and guest bios, recommended resources and a self-directed CPD form.

Share your comments, questions and feedback about A Conversation About …  or any of MHPN’s podcast series here: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/ 

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 guest bios, recommended resources and a self-directed CPD form.

Share your comments, questions and feedback about A Conversation About… or any of MHPN’s podcast series here: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/