Decolonising mental health and addiction training in Aotearoa

The group of individuals recognised for their achievements from the School of Health Sciences at Massey University

• Associate Professor Dr Chrissy Severinson, Associate Professor, Public Health, Massey University 
• Associate Professor Dr Andy Towers, Doctoral Supervisor, School of Health Sciences, Massey University 
• Hoani Moriarty, Tutor, School of Health Sciences, Massey University  
• Philip Brookes, Senior Tutor, Mental Health and Addictions, Massey University 
• Andrea Meni, Data Manager | Statistician (Research Officer), Massey University 
• Luke Rowe, Senior Research Officer, Massey University 

School of Health Sciences group members (left to right): Hoani Moriarty, Andrea Meni, Luke Rowe, Philip Brookes, Associate Professor Dr Chrissy Severinson, and Associate Professor Dr Andy Towers.

This highly collaborative team harnessed their collective expertise and networks to establish the first university-based undergraduate pathway into addiction practice.

Through the Bachelor of Health Science Mental Health and Addiction (MHA), (accredited by the Drug and Alcohol Practitioners Association of Aotearoa New Zealand), this Mental Health and Addiction team have embraced an interdisciplinary, culturally responsive approach. The curriculum  integrates hauora Māori and public health perspectives to challenge the dominant Western frameworks. Their mahi is learner centred and addresses the needs of both Māori and non-Māori learners.

One student said “…[they] made me feel culturally safe in the space and that Māori approaches and models are valued in the mental health and addiction space.”

The team makes innovative use of Durie’s Whakapiri Framework to support a learning environment that fosters deep relationships and student success. With flexible online delivery, the programme reaches a diverse, non-traditional student cohort, removing barriers to education and promoting inclusivity. 

They create learning experiences that positively contribute to the workforce and develop graduates who are passionate about supporting change, embracing respect, aroha and hope . 

A senior colleague comments, “What can I say except Wow, wow and wow!! ... Seeing the teaching interaction first-hand was fabulous...”