In this inspiring instalment of Never the Same, host Dr Tony Pisani welcomes Professor Pat Dudgeon, the first Aboriginal psychologist in Australia and a global voice for First Nations mental health. 

Pat describes how confronting the racism in the system sparked her mission to “decolonise” psychology and build a new framework called Social and Emotional Wellbeing, a model that places self, family, community, culture, and Country at the centre of healing.

Across the episode, Pat and Tony revisit moments such as the Ways Forward national report, discuss why Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander suicide demands distinct responses, and celebrate community-led successes, from Indigenous Rangers caring for land to universities rewriting psychology curricula. 

Key Points

• Pat’s path to becoming the first Aboriginal psychologist
• Origins and pillars of the SEWB paradigm
• The Ways Forward report and Boat Shed Declaration
• Distinct drivers of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander suicide
• Success stories: Indigenous Rangers, psychology curriculum reform
• The role of climate action and caring for Country 

Resources Mentioned

• Ways Forward: National Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Mental Health Policy Report 
• SEWB model diagram & “Working Together” chapter 
• Dance of Life wellbeing model by Prof Helen Milroy
• Sweetgrass Research Method — Dr Mark Standing Eagle Baez
• Indigenous Rangers Program (Australia) 

Professor Pat Dudgeon is a Bardi woman from the Kimberley and Australia’s first Aboriginal psychologist. She co-chairs the Centre of Best Practice in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention and advocates for culturally informed mental-health systems worldwide.

Dr. Tony Pisani is a professor, clinician, and founder of SafeSide Prevention, leading its mission to build safer, more connected military, health, education, and workplace communities.