In this episode, we delve into the transformative journey of the Ophelia Project, a collaborative initiative aimed at enhancing mental health care for children and adolescents across the Pacific region. Join Dr. Kartika Goundar, Dr. Paul Robertson, and Brigid Ryan as they discuss the challenges and successes of building a sustainable mental health network through the Online Pacific Health Exchange. Discover how this project has fostered international partnerships, empowered local healthcare workers, and addressed critical mental health needs in remote communities. Tune in to learn about the innovative approaches and heartfelt stories that are shaping the future of mental health care in the Pacific.

Brigid Ryan, M.Public Health, B.A: Brigid Ryan is a Program Manager with St. Vincent’s Mental Health International Unit, and is studying with the University of New South Wales, School of Population Health. Brigid has worked with health workers from the Asia and Pacific region in the areas of community mental health and recovery, HIV/AIDS and prevention of violence against women.  Over the last 15 years, Brigid has co-ordinated the Postgraduate Overseas Specialist Training (POST) program, focusing on training and capacity-building in community mental health and recovery, and fostering international collaborations. 

Associate Prof. Paul Robertson: Assoc Prof Paul Robertson is a Victorian Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist working for the Victorian Dept of Health and Bendigo Health CAMHS. He holds an academic position at The University of Melbourne based at Mindful: Centre for training and research in developmental health. Until recently Dr Robertson was Victorian Director of Advanced Training for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and active in the training and development of the child and adolescent mental health workforce. He is immediate past Chair of the binational committee of the RANZCP FCAP. He is actively engaged in international and regional engagement for improving mental health in the Asia-Pacific region.

Dr. Kartika Goundar, MBBS, Postgraduate Diploma in Mental Health: Kartika Goundar is a Lecturer at Fiji National University, teaching undergraduate students and Clinical Practice. General Psychiatric Inpatient, Outpatient, Consultant-Liaison, and Outreach services as a registrar at St Giles Hospital.  Her research interests are in forensic psychiatry, addiction psychiatry and community mental health. 

References: 

• RANZCP's international impact | RANZCP

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This podcast is provided to you for information purposes only and to provide a broad public understanding of various mental health topics.  The podcast may represent the views of the author and not necessarily the views of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists ('RANZCP'). The podcast is not to be relied upon as medical advice, or as a substitute for medical advice, does not establish a doctor-patient relationship and should not be a substitute for individual clinical judgement.  By accessing The RANZCP's podcasts you also agree to the full terms and conditions of the RANZCP's Website. Expert mental health information and finding a psychiatrist in Australia or New Zealand is available on the RANZCP’s Your Health In Mind Website.