I have been a consumer of mental health services, a carer, and family member of people living with mental health problems. This was my initial motivation for getting involved in mental health care and gives me reason to stay involved.
I know it sounds like cliché but I got involved in research because I wanted to make a difference. My career has been committed to improving the mental health of individuals by addressing prejudice against people with mental illness. When I see my research reflected in public policy, cited by other researchers and impacting on practice I know my work has been useful.
The ultimate goal would be that the community was open to discussing mental health problems and recognised that many people need support to stay well at some time in their life. Also, that non-drug treatment of mental health problems received funding and recognition by government, health departments and mental health professionals as well as the community .
Dr Browne has had a long and varied career in nursing, mostly in mental health nursing. He began as a mental health nurse training under the old system in hospitals. Then as a general nurse. Most of his clinical career was spent in community mental health and non-government organisations. He has also worked in private practice and as a bush nurse.
More recently Dr Browne began as an academic, with his work focused on teaching mental health to undergraduate nurses and post-graduate specialist mental health nurses. His clinical practice, teaching and research career have been focused on building a better understanding and empathy towards people with mental illness.
Universities are increasingly focused on blended learning - that is, using information technology including computer simulated learning and web-based courses. Young people have grown up using IT, social media, games etc and it's a natural part of their lives. If we are to support them as students and in their emotional challenges\mental health\mental wellness we need to develop skills and services in the space. Research seems to indicate that young people respond well to online support, counselling and psychotherapy especially when using social media.
Dr Browne has extensive experience in Counselling, Family therapy and other forms of psychotherapy. He has spent many years: