Alice Ayres

I am currently employed at Children's Health Queensland as a Psychiatrist at the Queensland Adolescent Extended Treatment Centre, and I hold a directorial and clinical role at Think Health Specialists, a boutique psychiatry practice in Brisbane. Additionally, I serve as a Medical Member for the Mental Health Review Tribunal. My work in the public sector is focused on leading a multidisciplinary team, educating peers and patients, and providing specialised care to those for whom traditional community treatments have proven insufficient. In the private sector, I emphasise fostering a culture of empowerment among clients.

I chose a career in psychiatry because of the profound impact it allows me to have on the lives of young people, particularly in the challenging field of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. The variety within this speciality is immensely fulfilling—from clinical practice to educational roles and policy involvement, each aspect allows me to help individuals grow and heal.

The most rewarding part of psychiatry is witnessing the tangible growth in my patients and being a part of their journey towards recovery. This field is unique in its blend of science, psychology, and human interaction, providing a deeply enriching professional experience.

For anyone considering psychiatry, especially within the paediatric subset, I recommend it enthusiastically. It's a career path that offers significant personal and professional gratification, provided you are passionate about making a difference in mental health. To those starting their journey, find mentors who inspire you and seek out robust supervision—it's invaluable. Engage fully with every learning opportunity and remember that your effort to understand and empower your patients can profoundly influence their lives.