I have a masters degree in clinical psychology, a PhD in health psychology and I’m a member of the Australian Psychological Society.
Originally from the UK, I undertook my undergraduate training in psychology at the University of Nottingham. I have always been fascinated with the intersection of physical and mental health and started my career as a researcher in the areas of psychoneuroimmunology (University of Bristol) and psycho-oncology (University of Edinburgh). For my PhD (University of Edinburgh) I focused on women’s health, understanding what contributes to anxiety in women with a genetic predisposition to breast cancer. I moved to Melbourne in 2003 and continued in research, bridging the gap between medicine, health care services and psychology.
I worked at University of Melbourne and the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital researching the impact of vision loss and chronic health conditions on levels of anxiety and depression. During this time, I obtained funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), Beyondblue and Diabetes Australia and focused my work on translating research around mental health into physical health and rehabilitation services.
The second phase of my career commenced over ten years ago in 2014, when I returned to University to qualify in clinical psychology in Australia. As part of this master’s program I worked for a year at the Austin Perinatal Mental Health Clinic and developed a passion for perinatal psychology. I established my own perinatal private practice in 2018.
My interest in perinatal mental health stems from a deep understanding of how significant physical health changes, including hormonal shifts and changes to the body, can profoundly impact mental well-being. These transitions often bring shifts in roles, identity, and relationships, creating a complex interplay of challenges and growth. As I’ve worked extensively in this area, I’ve become increasingly interested in how similar dynamics play out during menopause. The hormonal, physical, and psychological changes of this life stage can create a vulnerable time, often surrounded by societal misconceptions or stigma, yet it also holds the potential for personal growth, self-discovery, and transformation.
