Meet Dr Monica

NICKNAME: Mon

QUALIFICATIONS: BSc (Hons) in Psychology, PhD in Psychological Medicine, Master of Clinical Psychology (Ongoing)

ACHIEVEMENTS: I was the top-performing psychology graduate from the University of Western Australia in 2014. I have also designed and coordinated two multi-site randomised, controlled trials in the UK.

WHY DID YOU PURSUE PSYCHOLOGY? I chose to pursue psychology because it allows me to combine my deep academic interest in the brain and behaviour with my personal desire to support people experiencing distress to better cope and lead fulfilling lives.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO WORK AT BODYMATTERS? I chose to work at Body Matters due to my longstanding passion in supporting individuals with eating disorders, and due to the dedication and expertise of the team, who I am very excited to work alongside.

YOUR FAVOURITE QUOTE: “Change comes from doing things differently.”

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 10 YEARS: In 10 years, I hope to be a senior clinical psychologist, ideally in a position where I can combine my research and clinical experience to best support my clients.

FAVOURITE SPORTS OR ACTIVITIES: Strength training at the gym and SUP Ball (imagine a cross between lacrosse and rugby played on paddleboards)

FAVOURITE HOBBIES OR INTERESTS: Reading, listening to podcasts, watching classic films

WHAT IS YOUR SECRET SKILL: I was a national-level figure skater growing up.

WHO OR WHAT INSPIRES YOU: My clients

WHO WERE YOUR CHILDHOOD HEROES: My ice skating coaches

3 THINGS YOU WOULD TAKE ON A DESERT ISLAND: A swimsuit, sunscreen, and a good book (May as well make the best of it!)

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE INDULGENCE: Sticky toffee pudding

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE MOVIE: Arrival

FAVOURITE PLACES TO TRAVEL: Europe

IF YOU DIDN’T PURSUE PSYCHOLOGY, WHAT OTHER PROFESSION WOULD YOU PURSUE: Either journalism or coaching figure skating