In this episode of Psych Matters we hear about the ongoing journey of Australia’s first Indigenous doctor, Professor Helen Milroy, including the central importance of cultural competence for understanding and engaging with patients of all backgrounds. Professor Milroy is a descendant of the Palyku people of the Pilbara region of Western Australia, Professor of Psychiatry and Chair in Child Mental Health at The University of Western Australia Medical School, and a Commissioner with the National Mental Health Commission; as well as an author of a series of children’s books, among many other intellectual and artistic pursuits.

Dr Helen Milroy is a descendant of the Palyku people of the Pilbara region of Western Australia, but was born and educated in Perth. Australia’s first Indigenous doctor, Helen studied medicine at the University of Western Australia and is currently Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at UWA, Honorary Research Fellow at Telethon Kids Institute and a Commissioner with the National Mental Health Commission. Helen was recently appointed as the AFL’s first indigenous commissioner. Wombat, Mudlark and Other Stories is her first book for children.

Dr Andrew Amos is an adult psychiatrist in Townsville, currently working on a PhD constructing a map of all the peer review psychiatric research published since the early 20th Century.

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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.