Psych Matters

Dr Nick Kowalenko and Dr Daniel Issa explore the critical need for child and adolescent psychiatry in Cambodia, highlighting the CO-CAPIT project, which aims to provide online training for local doctors. Their discussion emphasises the importance of community engagement, international collaboration, and tailored training initiatives to address the gaps in mental health services. Challenges such as limited resources and cultural dif...

Despite decades of reform, Māori continue to face persistent and systemic inequities within mental health services in Aotearoa. These inequities are not solely the result of limited access or funding but are deeply rooted in unconscious bias and institutional racism. Our presentation brought together the voices and lived experiences of senior Māori mental health leaders, who courageously named and examined these often-invisible for...

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of writing disorders, exploring the intricate connections between creativity, neurology, and mental health. From the compulsive scribbles of hypergraphia to the challenges of agraphia, we uncover how these conditions have influenced some of history's most renowned figures, including Vincent van Gogh and Leonardo da Vinci. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of the mind and t...

In this episode, Jason Haitana and Kaumatua Ronald Baker explore the historical and contemporary challenges faced by the Māori community in accessing mental health services. They discuss the impact of historical events, such as wars and legislative changes, on Māori well-being and highlight the ongoing struggle for adequate funding and resources. The conversation also touches on the importance of cultural practices and the revitali...

In this podcast we dive into the vital topic of cultural safety—what it means in practice, how it shapes the wellbeing of diverse communities, and why it remains a cornerstone of effective and compassionate mental-health care in Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia!

 Dr. Ramya Vadivel is a psychiatrist and the New Zealand representative for the Section of Early Career Psychiatrists (SECP) at RANZCP. She has experience in general adult...

From the team at the Psych Matters podcast, we would like to thank you for supporting us on our journey this year. We have had over 25 releases and have reached over 210,000 listens. We would like to thank all our guest speakers and our audience for their contributions and support. Happy Holidays! 

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In this podcast, Dr Georgia Ramsden (Chair of the Binational Committee of Trainees) and Dr Ashna Basu (RANZCP Board Director, Chair of the Trainees’ Advisory Council) discuss the various trainee representative structures at the college, how they work and intertwine, the great efforts of trainee representatives across the College, and how you can get involved! 

Dr Ashna Basu is a Stage 3 trainee in Sydney who serves as the appointed ...

In this episode, Dr James Le Bas, a retired psychiatrist, shares his personal journey with Prof Richard Newton through mental illness and the stigma associated with it. He discusses the concept of 'brash humility,' the impact of his experiences on his professional identity, and the importance of open conversations in reducing stigma. The dialogue explores the intersection of patient and psychiatrist experiences, the role ...

This episode explores the experiences and insights of the transition to retirement in psychiatry. Dr Joanna MacDonald, Dr Brian Craig, Dr Graeme Croft, Dr Nick O’Connor, and A/Prof Chanaka Wijeratne share personal stories, emphasizing the need for mentorship, community involvement, and the significance of maintaining social connections post-retirement. The discussion covers the challenges faced during retirement, the importance of ...

In this episode, we will address the critical issue of power and privilege in psychiatric leadership. Power dynamics and privilege can significantly impact care, collaboration and co-leadership. We'll explore strategies for redistributing power, fostering a culture of inclusion and respect. Our conversation will cover the importance of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and cultural humility in mitigating the effects of p...

In honour of ADHD Awareness Month, we're excited to share a special short episode on Adult ADHD, presented by Dr. Smita Verma.

The concept of normality is pivotal in diagnosing adult ADHD, as common behaviours like distractibility or impulsivity, universal to human experience, only warrant a diagnosis when they cause significant functional impairment in specific contexts. A global shortage of ADHD stimulants reflects rising dem...

In this episode, Professor Mal Hopwood and Professor Colleen Loo discuss the introduction of esketamine to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) in Australia. They explore the mechanism of action of esketamine, its clinical trials, practical applications, treatment protocols, costs, safety monitoring, and the importance of informed consent. The conversation emphasises the need for proper patient expectations and long-term treatm...

In this episode, we explore ethical leadership in psychiatry, particularly in the context of the Royal Commission into Mental Health Care. Dr Nardine Elzahaby leads the discussion with Professor Sharon Lawn, Kerry Hawkins, and Professor Neeraj Gill on incorporating lived experience into decision-making and the need for systemic transformation to better serve patients and families. This conversation delves into the complexities of e...

In this episode Associate Professor Mathew Coleman interviews Professor Bruce Singh and Professor Pat McGorry as they explore the experiences and insights of rural psychiatry in Australia. They also discuss the challenges and rewards of providing mental health services in regional areas, the importance of community engagement, and the need for training and mentorship for future psychiatrists. The dialogue emphasises the value of co...

Recorded live at the RANZCP 2025 Congress in the Gold Coast, this podcast features members of the Section of Private Practice Psychiatry. Dr Michelle Atchison and Dr Gary Galambos join host A/Prof Jeffrey Looi to discuss the benefits and challenges of telehealth in psychiatry. They also explore the future of private practice psychiatry in the context of developments in telehealth, digital technology and the private healthcare secto...

This podcast on Female phenotype in Autism and implications for clinical care in psychiatry explores the autistic characteristics in women and girls - often referred to as the female phenotype - which suggests that autistic women and girls have characteristics that are different from the traditional profile observed in males and boys and may be missed. For example, females may have more social skills and are more likely to mask the...

This episode delves into the complex issue of elder abuse, exploring its various forms, including financial and institutional abuse, and the impact of ageism on care for older adults. Dr Yoram Barak and Professor Henry Brodaty discuss the importance of public awareness, education, and the need for systemic changes to address the vulnerabilities faced by the elderly. They emphasise the role of family dynamics and societal expectatio...

This series is dedicated to honouring the pioneering women who have shaped the history of RANZCP as past presidents. Out of the 55 individuals who have held this esteemed position, only nine have been women — and with a female president currently at the helm, we reflect on the legacy of their trailblazing contributions. Each episode delves into the personal stories, challenges and triumphs of these pioneers, offering valuable inspi...

This podcast explores the implementation and challenges of Competency-Based Medical Education within the RANZCP Fellowship Program. It features insights from medical educators and trainees on the importance of flexible assessments, effective feedback, and the role of supervisors in fostering a supportive learning environment. The discussion emphasises the need for a curriculum that aligns with workplace realities and the significan...