Mental Health in Practice

MHPN

Practical conversations about mental health care across Australia’s health system.

Mental Health in Practice is a podcast for health professionals working across the mental health system, featuring conversations grounded in real-world experience.

Each episode brings together perspectives from clinical practice, research, and sector expertise to explore contemporary mental health care.

The show focuses on what thoughtful, collaborative care looks like in practice – and how professionals across disciplines can better support mental health outcomes for Australians.

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20 episodes
fortnightly
Avg 32 min
English

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#112
Tuesday · 32 min
How to challenge bias in mental health practice
Bias and assumptions shape the quality and safety of health care, sometimes without practitioners realising it. Drawing on extensive experience working alongside LGBTQ+ communities, Georgina Bell and Glenn Noble explore how to notice, name and reflect on our assumptions in a way that helps to build genuine trust with clients, particularly those who have experienced stigma or marginalisation elsewhere. Explore resources on bias and cultural safety on the MHPN website. Featured presenters: Georgina Bell (Social Worker) and Glenn Noble (Counsellor). Liked this episode? Share with others and subscribe to Mental Health in Practice for more practice insights. Share your comments, questions and feedback about Mental Health in Practice: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/.
#111
September 1 · 22 min
New ways of thinking about children and trauma
What distinguishes trauma-responsive care from trauma-informed care, and how can it be applied in practice to support children and families affected by disaster? In this episode, Michelle Roberts (Psychologist) and Sarah Eagland (Social Worker) explore what it looks like to account for and effectively respond to trauma in the context of disaster. Highlighting the important role of trauma-responsive care in translating knowledge and awareness into action and adaptation, they discuss how practitioners can contribute to positive outcomes for children, families and communities. Equally prioritising practitioner wellbeing, they explore how a culture of psychological safety can support multidisciplinary teams working in disaster recovery and resilience. 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 Mental Health in Practice: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/
#110
August 18 · 30 min
What children need during disaster recovery
How can practitioners work safely and collaboratively to support children and families impacted by disaster? Michelle Roberts (Psychologist) and Sarah Eagland (Social Worker) unpack the role of trauma-informed care in addressing the diverse and often-overlooked needs of children in the context of disaster. Focusing on strengths-based approaches, they explore opportunities to build skills that promote feelings of safety, calm, control and agency for children and families. The episode encourages practitioners across health, mental health and community settings to nurture their own wellbeing when working in challenging contexts. Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes by following Mental Health in Practice. 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 Mental Health in Practice: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/
#109
August 4 · 47 min
Managing Boundaries, Bias and Emotional Reactions in Clinical Practice
This episode was originally released in 2024 as part of MHPN's three-part series, Health in all its Complexity. This three-part series features academic General Practitioners, Dr Wei-May Su and Professor Louise Stone, in conversation with various GPs about the complexities of providing meaningful primary health care. In the final episode, they chat with GP and addiction medicine specialist, Dr Hester Wilson, about the challenges they face when patients talk or behave in ways that don’t align with their personal and professional values. Throughout their discussion, they share stories and strategies about how they balance their ‘rational’ and ‘emotional’ selves in clinical settings where patients may ‘push their buttons’. Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes by following Mental Health in Practice. 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 Mental Health in Practice: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/
#108
July 21 · 41 min
Clinical Uncertainty: Why the Answers Aren't Always Clear
This episode was originally released in 2024 as part of MHPN's three-part series, Health in all its Complexity. This three-part series features academic General Practitioners, Dr Wei-May Su and Professor Louise Stone, in conversation about the complexities of providing meaningful primary health care. In episode two, they explore the challenges of providing primary health care when treating the rare, the unknown, the complex, the not learned about, and the different. They reflect on the changes to the health system over the years and that currently primary care is dealing with more uncertainty than ever. They touch on issues of patient representation in medical research, accessibility and equity of care, the oversimplification of diagnostic processes, and how multidisciplinary care and collaboration can support practitioners. Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes by following Mental Health in Practice. 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 Mental Health in Practice: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/
#107
July 7 · 43 min
Why Mental Health Care Is More Than Diagnosis and Treatment
This episode was originally released in 2024 as part of MHPN's three-part series, Health in all its Complexity. This three-part series features academic General Practitioners, Dr Wei-May Su and Professor Louise Stone, in conversation with various GPs about the complexities of providing meaningful primary health care. In episode one, May and Louise sit down with General Practitioner and researcher Professor Michael Kidd to explore the complexities of providing mental health care in a range of settings, from top-down health systems to working directly with patients. They discuss the challenges GPs face in providing mental health care within restricted systems and how they deal with moral injury in their work. They speak to the importance of showing humanness in person-centred care and the benefits of multidisciplinary support and collaboration. Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes by following Mental Health in Practice. 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 Mental Health in Practice: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/
#1000
June 30 · 50 sec
Three Episodes Worth Revisiting
Unsure what to listen to next? We've got you covered. Over the next six weeks, we'll be re-releasing three episodes from our archive and invite you to revisit them with us. Whether you're new to Mental Health in Practice or have been listening for a while, these episodes provide an opportunity to reflect on some of the realities of practice: from recognising when care requires more than diagnosis and treatment, to why uncertainty exists in practice, and how we continue providing compassionate care while looking after ourselves. Episode 1 will be re-released on Wednesday 8 July. Stay tuned for new episodes of Mental Health in Practice, returning from 19 August.
#106
June 23 · 31 min
Strengthening your Practice through Humility and Curiosity
How can mental health practitioners build trust and create meaningful connections when people's experiences, expectations and understanding of care differ from their own? Drawing on extensive experience working alongside migrant communities, people seeking asylum and refugee communities, this episode explores practical ways to build meaningful therapeutic relationships and creating a space that is flexible and curious. The insights shared are relevant across a wide range of communities, offering opportunities to reflect on how curiosity, flexibility and cultural humility can support stronger connections. The conversation offers valuable reflections for practitioners across health, mental health and community settings. Featured presenters: Quan Nguyen (Accredited Mental Health Social Worker) and Dr Raj Ramanathapillai (Senior Practitioner Counsellor Advocate). Liked this episode? Share with others and subscribe to Mental Health in Practice for more practice insights. Explore resources on culturally safe practice on the MHPN website. Share your comments, questions and feedback about Mental Health in Practice: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/
#105
June 9 · 29 min
AI in Mental Health Practice: Opportunities, Risks and Responsible Use
How is AI already being used in mental health practice, and what does it mean for you as a practitioner? In this episode, our presenters discuss the growing role of AI across healthcare and mental health settings, including where it is already being used in clinical and service settings. They discuss the practical opportunities AI may offer for communication, accessibility and support while also examining the challenges it raises around privacy, consent, professional judgement and trust. The conversation encourages mental health practitioners to critically reflect on how emerging technologies may influence care, therapeutic relationships and the future of practice. Explore resources on AI in mental health practice on the MHPN website. Featured presenters: Angela Batra-Mariani (Occupational Therapist, Co-founder of Everbility), David Lopis (Psychologist, AI Consultant), and Mani Batra (Software Engineer, Co-founder of Everbility). Liked this episode? Share with others and subscribe to Mental Health in Practice for more practice insights. Share your comments, questions and feedback about Mental Health in Practice: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/.
#104
May 26 · 32 min
Therapeutic Relationships: What To Do When Things Go Wrong
How can reflective practice repair therapeutic relationships? Lenice Murray (Mental Health Social Worker) and Lee Crothers (Mental Health Occupational Therapist) explore how ruptures to relationships are common with a focus on how these can show up when working with consumers, carers and teams. They explore why avoiding communication breakdowns can damage trust and care, and how honest conversations, shared responsibility, and strong supervision can help repair relationships and support safer practice. Liked this episode? Share with others and subscribe to Mental Health in Practice for more practice insights. Explore resources on therapeutic relationships and trauma-informed care on the MHPN website. Share your comments, questions and feedback about Mental Health in Practice: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/.
#103
May 12 · 33 min
Peer-led Digital Spaces for LGBTIQA+ Young People
How can peer-led digital spaces support LGBTIQA+ young people? Hamish Czygan (Online Peer Work Team Lead at headspace National) is joined by Kevin Tran (Peer Worker) and Jack Ebacioni (Senior Mental Health Clinician). Together, they highlight the increasingly valuable role that peer-led digital spaces play in strengthening engagement and connection for young people in the LGBTIQA+ community. The episode explores how spaces led by peer-workers create opportunities for connection and self-expression. Young people looking for connection, role models or support accessing mental health care can benefit from inclusive online communities. Liked this episode? Share with others and subscribe to Mental Health in Practice. Explore resources on mental health support for young people identifying as part of the LGBTIQA+ community on the MHPN website. Share your comments, questions and feedback about Mental Health in Practice: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/.
#102
April 28 · 33 min
School Can’t: Attendance Challenges and Re-engagement
What does engagement-focused care for young people with school attendance challenges look like in multidisciplinary practice? Join Paige Davey (School Re-engagement Specialist and Trainer) and Richard Crawshaw (Founder of Can’t Face School) as they explore the increasing complexities of school attendance challenges. Together, they unpack the practical barriers and enablers to system-wide collaboration, underscoring the value of curiosity, building trust and person-centredness in supporting sustainable re-engagement. Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes by following Mental Health in Practice. Explore resources on youth mental health and school attendance challenges on the MHPN website. Share your comments, questions and feedback about Mental Health in Practice: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/.
#101
April 14 · 32 min
Complexity and Youth Mental Health: Leading Effective Teams
What does effective conflict management in multidisciplinary teams look like? Host Radhika Santhanam-Martin (Clinical Psychologist) is joined by guests Aly Butchers (Manager of Legal Practice for the Family Violence Program at Youthlaw), Kate Raseta (National Manager, Strategic Initiatives at headspace) and Dr Kirsten Meyer (Dramatherapist). Together, they explore how relational repairs within multidisciplinary teams impact client and family outcomes. Equally committed to supporting multidisciplinary team cohesion, they share practical approaches to strengthening therapeutic alliances in youth mental health care. Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes by following Mental Health in Practice. Explore resources on youth mental health and multidisciplinary team leadership on the MHPN website. Share your comments, questions and feedback about Mental Health in Practice: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/.
#100
March 31 · 34 min
Young People and Trauma: Applications of Systems Theory
How can a systems approach improve care for young people with complex trauma? Join host Dana Shen (Consultant), and guests Seanna Davidson (Systems Change Practitioner and Education) and Tim Crowley (Nurse Practitioner in Child and Adolescence Mental Health) as they explore how family, community and services connect around a young person and shape trauma-informed care. Equally focused on the efficacy of these broader services, Dana, Seanna and Tim discuss the role that systems thinking plays in helping multidisciplinary teams to navigate workplace challenges and collaboratively engage. Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes by following Mental Health in Practice. Explore resources on trauma-informed care and multidisciplinary practice on the MHPN website. Share your comments, questions and feedback about Mental Health in Practice: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/.
#99
March 17 · 29 min
Barriers to Care: Designing a men’s mental health service
Content advice: This episode discusses the topic of suicide, listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is in crisis, support is available. In Australia, contact Lifeline (13 11 14), Suicide Call Back Service (call or chat online), or Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800 – for those aged 25 and under). If it is an emergency, call 000. How can practitioners overcome barriers to effectively engaging men in care? Join Co-Directors of the Ballarat Men's Mental Health Service, Maxine Troon, Andrew McPherson and Mick Fryar, as they share their insights into why men delay help-seeking and can find it difficult to remain engaged in supports. They explore common experiences, such as challenges with referral pathways, alongside other barriers that are unique to this demographic. By cultivating a person-centred environment, this episode demonstrates how the Ballarat Men’s Mental Health service continues to innovate, evolve and meet men where they're at. Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes by following Mental Health in Practice. 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 Mental Health in Practice: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/.
#98
March 3 · 28 min
Anxiety in the Perinatal Period: A Peer Work Perspective
Anxiety can often be difficult to recognise during the perinatal period, with many people hesitating to seek support. Robyn Stanislavski and Katie Rogerson from PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia) discuss their roles as peer worker and clinical practitioner, and how the intentional and safe sharing of lived experience can reduce shame and complement clinical care during this stage of life. Drawing on both lived experience and professional practice, Robyn and Katie discuss the value of peer support for people experiencing anxiety in the perinatal period. As part of the conversation, they also clarify what peer workers do in real practice settings and how collaboration between peer and clinical roles can strengthen support for parents. Listen to gain a deeper understanding of how peer support works in practice and the positive difference it can make in perinatal mental health. Robyn Stanislavski recently shared her expertise at an MHPN webinar, Supporting Perinatal Mental Health After Loss or a History of Eating Disorders. You can watch the full webinar recording on our website here: https://mhpn.org.au/webinar/perinatal-mental-health/ Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes by following Mental Health in Practice. 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 Mental Health in Practice: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/.
#97
February 24 · 28 min
What Makes ADHD Burnout So Different?
Mental Health Occupational Therapist Emma Ketley and ADHD and autism advocate Amy Green explore neurodivergent burnout and why it is so often misunderstood in clinical settings. Amy candidly shares her lived experience, highlighting how burnout differs from depression and occupational burnout, and the impact it can cause to sensory tolerance and executive functioning. Emma and Amy unpack what accessible, neurodiversity-affirming care looks like in practice. From working with individual strengths and tailoring communication, to creating flexible, collaborative spaces, they explore practical ways that practitioners can reduce barriers and truly support neurodivergent people in engaging with care. This episode is essential listening for health practitioners, mental health professionals, and anyone supporting people with ADHD. It provides clear strategies to incorporate into your practice, to create safer, more inclusive, and supportive spaces. Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes by following Mental Health in Practice. 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 Mental Health in Practice: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/.
#96
February 17 · 26 min
ADHD: Support Beyond Medication
How can people with ADHD be supported beyond medication? Occupational Therapist and ADHD Coach Emma Ketley and ADHD and autism advocate Amy Green bring their professional insight and lived experience, for an honest conversation about supporting people with ADHD beyond medication. They explore sensory load, masking, ADHD burnout, and nervous system regulation, and discuss practical, non-pharmacological strategies that can make a meaningful difference for neurodivergent adults. This episode is essential listening for health practitioners, mental health professionals, and anyone supporting people with ADHD. It offers guidance on neurodiversity-affirming approaches, and on how to create safer, more inclusive spaces in practice. Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes by following Mental Health in Practice. 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 Mental Health in Practice: https://mhpn.org.au/podcast-feedback/.
#95
Nov 25, 2025 · 36 min
Social Work in Legal Practice: Improving Client Wellbeing
What happens when social workers work inside a law firm? Clients get more support than you might expect. This episode features Olga Gountras and Alexis Stonebridge from Slater and Gordon. They speak about supporting clients’ mental health, managing risk, and keeping people linked to care during stressful legal processes. Hear how this model improves collaboration across legal and health services and helps clients feel safer, clearer and more confident as they navigate complex claims. Liked this episode? Stay tuned for future episodes by following Mental Health in Practice. 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/.
#94
Nov 11, 2025 · 47 min
Anger: Practical Skills to Support Client Goals
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 by following Mental Health in Practice. 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/.

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