This month, we’re proud to celebrate three years of service from Jhai Bartley at Wakai Waian Healing. An Iman man from the Chinchilla region with family ties stretching along the Dawson River to Gubbi Gubbi country, Jhai has become an integral part of our clinical team – not just as a practitioner, but as a voice for cultural truth, trauma recovery, and First Nations mental health healing.
Jhai’s journey into psychology began with a clinical lens but has deepened into something far more powerful: a culturally anchored, community-first practice grounded in spirit, story, and resilience. His work across regional spaces – especially on Palm Island – has become part of the fabric of those communities. “Palm Island is definitely very valuable to me. It’s part of my heart and is a great privilege to be invited into their space,” Jhai shares.
Throughout his time with WWH, Jhai has been a strong advocate for integrating Indigenous worldviews with evidence-based practices like cognitive behavioural therapy. “A lot of people have at least some cultural or spiritual framework. Allowing them to be open about it is game-changing when it comes to narratives and CBT.”
Jhai is also committed to sustaining his own wellbeing and growth in the demanding work of counselling and psychology “You can burn the candle at both ends… but finding more time for self-care, family, and being a full person outside of work – that definitely helps,” he reflects. With eyes set on general registration in the coming year, Jhai is aiming for a “sustainable outcome, income, and work-life balance that doesn’t over-leverage myself… A 25-hour work week sounds very nice,” he laughs.
His aspirations for the future include supporting the development of a men’s healing program on Palm Island, grounded in cultural reconnection and narrative therapy. “The stories we tell ourselves, our kids, our communities, and the rest of Australia – that’s really important. It’s the through-line that we build everything else on.”
Jhai’s reflections also show a deep appreciation for mentorship. “When I can get Ed Mosby for supervision, it’s very valuable. And Joe Sproat’s feedback really helps develop my practice, especially in understanding Indigenous perspectives and strengthening social and emotional wellbeing frameworks.”
Whether supporting clients on-country, advocating for cultural safety in psychology, or dreaming into the future of Indigenous-led healing practices, Jhai’s presence at Wakai Waian Healing is a powerful reminder of what it means to walk alongside community with integrity, humility, and vision.
Three years in – and just getting started!