In this powerful talk, renowned psychologist and Nyamal woman, Dr Tracy Westerman talks with journalist and Wiradjuri man Stan Grant about the transformation taking place in the treatment of Indigenous trauma.

From humble beginnings in the remote Pilbara, Dr Tracy Westerman became the first Aboriginal person in Australia to complete a PhD in Clinical Psychology. She rose to become one of the country’s leading psychologists. In her clinical practice and charitable foundation, she revolutionised the treatment of mental health, suicide behaviours, and complex trauma in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Marking the publication of her memoir Jilya, Westerman speaks to Stan Grant in a powerful conversation, arguing that the mental health professions’ one-size-fits-all approach has created irreparable damage. Drawing on decades of client stories of trauma and heartbreak, she explains how a different approach has helped to heal the wounds of intergenerational trauma. Exploring other topics such as the Raise the Age campaign and Stan & Tracy’s own lived experiences and struggles, this is an important and impactful conversation not to be missed.

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The event was held on World Suicide Prevention Day, Tuesday 10 September. If you or someone you know is affected by the topics discussed in this program, please reach out to the support resources below for help.

Hotlines:
· 13 YARN: 13 92 76
· Lifeline: 13 1 14