I am an independent, private psychologist. I graduated with a Masters of Educational and Developmental Psychology from Monash University, Victoria, in 2007 and have been a psychologist for 13 years. I have always been a member of a psychologists professional organisation, currently the Australian Association of Psychologists Inc (AAPi). I was involved for a number of years in running local Mental Health Professional Networking groups, and founded the Victorian Psychologists' Networking Group in May 2018.
Since graduating I have worked in private practice providing and counselling and assessments for children, adolescents and young adults. I established my own practice, Positive Young Minds, in 2016. I have run mindfulness for parents and self-care for psychologists training.
Over the last few years my professional development as focused on Mindfulness and ACT training including completing the following: ACT for Adolescents, Russ Harris; ACT for Young People, Louise Hayes; Working in the Body in ACT, Russ Harris; and ACT for Motivation, Russ Harris,
What I have learned about mental health
Having grown up in an era where mental health was generally ignored, here are some important things I have learnt along the way. Early intervention, understanding and prevention is the key to good mental health. Do NOT wait for things to get better, for the next stage, for problems to fix themselves. Most children want to do their best and when this is not possible, investigation into underlying reasons can help. You cannot get rid of thoughts and feelings. Feeling are messengers and have a purpose. Awareness and acceptance of your feelings is crucial for self-compassion, forgiveness and true self-connection. Self-care is not a luxury, it is essential and can be incorporated into your day to day activities. And it’s never too early and never too late to improve your mental health.
My mental health
The cornerstone of my mental health is around practical mindfulness. I regularly checkin with my thoughts and feelings and use this to guide what I most need. I engage in a daily mindful walk around my neighbourhood. I find meaning in my work and motherhood and connection through keeping in touch with my friends and family, being involved in peer networking, and contributing to my community through a range of volunteer activities. The latest has involved helping raise two guide dog puppies.
I love to teach others positive, practical mental health skills. When these are learned, they can create a solid foundation to develop trust in yourself, experience happiness and joy, have strong, connected relationships with others, and discover and use your talents and gifts to produce life satisfaction and benefits for the wider community.
Whatever is going on in your life, know that you are not alone, you just need to ask and you will have my fierce support..
You can contact me here.
Kim Dunn, Psychologist
B.A. Grad.Dip. Ed. Psych., M.Psych (Ed & Dev), AAPi
