My name is Suhani Dass and my journey in mental health began in the beautiful Fiji Islands, where I was born and raised. I completed my schooling in New Zealand, where I pursued my undergraduate and postgraduate qualification in Psychology and Clinical Counselling. This dual focus allowed me to immerse myself in the field from a young age, igniting a passion that has guided my career.
At just 18 years old, I began my journey into mental health, volunteering with organisations like Lifeline and Youthline. Driven by a deep curiosity about human behavior and relationships, I was determined to understand why people act as they do. Despite facing cultural barriers my determination never wavered.
I have 15 years of professional experience in the field of mental health, working across the South Pacific with diverse population groups. I have worked as a mental health clinician and psychologist in multiple settings, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), government agencies, private practice, and as an educator.
I have worked for Aboriginal health services across Australia where I gained a deep understanding of the unique mental health challenges faced by Indigenous communities.Through my experiences, I’ve developed a deep understanding of cultural safety, a concept that is crucial in the field of mental health, especially when working with vulnerable communities. Cultural safety is about creating an authentic space where individuals can express their true selves without the weight of societal expectations. It’s about understanding and respecting the cultural norms, values, and beliefs of the people you serve. I recognise the unique challenges faced by Aboriginal communities in accessing mental health services, and I strive to bridge these gaps with empathy and respect.
I remain deeply passionate about my work and as a Psychologist I aim to help others find their voice and navigate their mental health journeys. My commitment to purpose-driven work fuels my dedication to making a significant impact in the lives of those I serve. I hope my story inspires consumers, and those in the mental health field, and highlights the importance of cultural safety and understanding in providing excellent support and clinical care.