I was born in Vancouver, Canada and raised in a family who did not attend church and neither promoted nor criticized any religion.  At 18 years old I graduated from high school, hitchhiked with a girl-friend across Canada and through Europe, married my handsome lover in Vancouver and gave birth to our son, Derrick.  In 1980 I began university studies in psychology, philosophy and nutrition unknowing that I was soon to move on my own to Australia and start a new life.

 

In my role of advisor to assist the creation and implementation of the then new health food departments at Canada Safeway, the Australian Safeway manager researching the Canadian food marketing system offered me a similar position in Australia.  While he could not guarantee by securing the job since I had to compete with other Australians, I did get it. In 1981 Australia Safeway sponsored my immigration to Australia where I now also enjoy citizenship.

In 1993, I recommenced university studies in psychology.  About the same time, my son enrolled in a seminary to become a Catholic priest.  For nine years, both myself in Australia, and my son, in Canada and at the Vatican in Italy, formally studied 'spirituality.'  During 'school holidays' we spent much time together in Australia, Canad and Italy sharing our views, knowledge and theories.  During these visits, we also purposefully met with people from other Eastern and Western philosophies and religions to discover different concepts and experiences regarding spirituality.  I received my Bachelor of Applied Science with a double major in psycho-physiology (neuro-science) and psychology from Swinburne University in 1995 and my Honors degree in psychology from Deakin University in 1996.  I started my masters/PhD at Keakin then transferred to LaTrobe University.  From 1998 - 2002 I worked on my doctorate in transpersonal psychology at LaTrobe University.  The thes was submitted in 2002 and my PhD was awarded in 2003.

Donna has lectured at the Australian College of Natural Medicine (now Endeavor) teaching courses in Counselling Skills and Professional Development including Introduction to Professional Practice and Establish a Practice.

 

Donna joined beyondblue in November 2006 as one of their Workplace Trainers providing a variety of workshops to organizations to enhance people's awareness and understanding about depression, anxiety and drug abuse.

 

Donna works Monday afternoon to evening at this medical centre for patients referred to her through the doctors at this practice.

 

Donna works Wednesdays at this medical centre for patients referred to her through the doctors at this practice.