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Psych Matters

Psych Matters

RANZCP 172 Episodes Aug 14, 2026

Psych Matters is an educational podcast produced by The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists. It covers a wide range of mental health topics for psychiatrists, trainees, and anyone with an interest in psychiatry. Episodes feature expert discussions and insights. The content is intended for informational purposes and not as medical advice.

Episodes

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander MHC: A discussion at Congress 2026
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander MHC: A discussion at Congress 2026 Aug 14, 2026 3403 In this episode, Ernest Hunter is joined by Katie Papertalk and Dianna Jans for a powerful conversation about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health, trauma, and what true cultural safety looks like in remote communities. They explore why one-size-fits-all psychiatry often falls short, how intergenerational trauma and stigma shape help-seeking, and why listening to community, respecti
A Hole in the Head by Robert Kaplan
A Hole in the Head by Robert Kaplan Jul 31, 2026 746 In this episode we delve into the history of trepanning and the practice of drilling holes into the skull for medical and spiritual purposes.  Follow along Robert Kaplan's narration on the life of Amanda Fielding who self-practised the dangerous and highly risky trepanning. Dr. Robert Kaplan is a psychiatrist, author, historian and speaker. With a career spanning medicine, history, and the co
A Transformative Experience: Part 1
A Transformative Experience: Part 1 Jul 17, 2026 2687 In this podcast, we hear about an experience in psychiatric practice which has such an impact on the clinician that it leads to adopting a radical and enduring change in his subsequent clinical, teaching, and research activities. Emeritus Professor Sidney Bloch shares such an experience with Professor Shuichi Suetani which occurred in the early phase of his training. The experience proved so pivot
Perils of Diagnosis in the Age of the Internet
Perils of Diagnosis in the Age of the Internet Jul 3, 2026 1857 In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Matthew Macfarlane uncovers how the internet, social media, societal change, and our own psychology are fueling the rise of inflated and sometimes harmful diagnoses. Discover the surprising ways that diagnostic labels can shape identity, offering understanding and validation, while also, at times, contributing to expectations or limitations.Associate Professor Matt
Women in Adolescent Forensic Psychiatry Part 2
Women in Adolescent Forensic Psychiatry Part 2 Jun 19, 2026 2163 In this episode we continue our conversation with six incredible female forensic psychiatrists as they dive into the complex issues faced by professionals working with vulnerable youth in forensic settings. From ongoing trauma to media portrayals and resource limitations, our panel shares insights, personal experiences, and advice for aspiring adolescent forensic psychiatrists.Dr Shaileigh Gordon
Women in Adolescent Forensic Psychiatry Part 1
Women in Adolescent Forensic Psychiatry Part 1 Jun 5, 2026 2839 In this episode we unlock the realities of adolescent forensic psychiatry through the voices of five pioneering women in the field. Delve into the complexities, risks, and rewards of working at the intersection of mental health, the justice system, and gender. From safety precautions to gendered challenges, this episode uncovers the nuanced experience of being a woman in one of psychiatry’s most d
Psychopathology Part 4: Abnormalities in Mood
Psychopathology Part 4: Abnormalities in Mood May 22, 2026 2606 This is the four and final part of the series on Psychopathology. This conversation delves into the complexities of mood disorders, exploring the distinctions between normal emotional states and pathological conditions. The discussion covers various aspects of mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, melancholia, self-harm, and mania, emphasising the importance of understanding the subjectiv
Psychopathology Part 3: Abnormalities of thought content
Psychopathology Part 3: Abnormalities of thought content May 8, 2026 3045 Join us in the third part of this series on Psychopathology. This episode as we explore the intricate world of thoughts, delusions, and formal thought disorders within psychiatric practice. Featuring expert perspectives, we delve into definitions, classifications, cultural considerations, and neurobiological models underpinning these phenomena—essential for clinicians and students alike.Dr Vinesh
Psychopathology Part 2: Abnormalities of perception
Psychopathology Part 2: Abnormalities of perception Apr 24, 2026 3028 The second part of this series delves into the fascinating world of perception, exploring normal sensations, illusions, hallucinations, and their cultural influences. Join us as we discuss how the brain constructs reality, the differences between true and pseudo-hallucinations, and the impact of cultural backgrounds on psychiatric assessment.Dr Vinesh Gupta DPM, MRCPsych, FRANZCP, PGCME is an acco
Psychopathology Part 1: An Introduction
Psychopathology Part 1: An Introduction Apr 10, 2026 2401 In this conversation, Dr Vinesh Gupta and Professor Femi Oyebode discuss the critical role of psychopathology in psychiatry, the evolution of the DSM, and the implications of pathologising human behaviour. They explore the importance of understanding hallucinations within cultural contexts, the impact of efficiency on psychiatric practice, and the necessity of empathy and attentive listening in cl
What story should psychiatry tell
What story should psychiatry tell Mar 27, 2026 4060 This conversation explores the impact of storytelling in psychiatry, emphasising how narratives shape identity and influence recovery. Dr Rory Hutchinson, Ms Bianca Millroy and A/Prof Warren Ward discuss their personal experiences with functional neurological disorder, the role of the medical gaze, and the importance of lived experience in understanding mental health. They delve into narrative med
RANZCP's International Project: Ophelia
RANZCP's International Project: Ophelia Mar 13, 2026 3290 In this episode, we delve into the transformative journey of the Ophelia Project, a collaborative initiative aimed at enhancing mental health care for children and adolescents across the Pacific region. Join Dr. Kartika Goundar, Dr. Paul Robertson, and Brigid Ryan as they discuss the challenges and successes of building a sustainable mental health network through the Online Pacific Health Exchange

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