Dr Chris Maylea is a social worker, lawyer, and Associate Professor of law at La Trobe University. He has practice experience in mental health services as a social worker and manager, provides advice to government and policy reform bodies. Associate Professor Maylea’s work sits at the intersections of health, welfare and the law, and is underpinned by human rights and social justice. He is the author of over 70 peer-reviewed publications and commissioned reports, and is the author of 'Social work and the Law: a guide for ethical practice'.
He has conducted evaluations of health and advocacy services, empirical research on interdisciplinary practice advance statements, gender-based violence in mental health inpatient units, child protection, elder abuse, and doctrinal and human rights analyses. His work uses codesign approaches, with a focus on promoting the voice of people who use health and welfare services. Associate Professor Maylea has extensive experience before the Victorian Mental Health Tribunal as a legal representative. He previously managed and evaluated mainstream Aboriginal and child and family community mental health services, rehabilitation units and assertive outreach and support services in regional areas. He has served as Chair and Deputy Chair of the Victorian Mental Illness Awareness Council (VMIAC).
Launch: Taking Charge of Your Care: How to Communicate Your Needs Health Resource Introducing the Taking Charge of Your Care: How to Communicate Your Needs Health Resource – a tool to support autonomy and self-determination, designed by people living with mental and physical health concerns for others who experience these issues. This project was meticulously co-designed over two years to address the unique challenges faced by those navigating care at the intersection of physical and mental health. At its core, this resource is an empowerment tool, encouraging individuals to identify their needs and be clear with their clinicians. The tool empowers its users to leave less up to the discretion of their doctor by clearly identifying and communicating their needs in a way that cannot be ignored. This presentation will delve into the development of this invaluable resource, highlighting its key features and the transformative impact it promises to have on mental health advocacy. Join us as we embark on a journey to improve agency and equity, together reshaping the landscape of mental healthcare communication.
