Richard Clancy

Richard Clancy is a Conjoint Associate Professor with the School of Psychological Sciences (Nursing) at the University of Newcastle. His substantive position is with Hunter New England Mental Health, where he serves as Nursing Research Fellow based at the Mater Campus within the Centre for Brain and Mental Health. He chairs the Mental Health Nursing Research & Practice Development Unit and has been active in mental health nursing since 1979.

Clancy holds the following qualifications:

• Master of Medical Science (Clinical Epidemiology) from the University of Newcastle
• Registered Nurse from the University of Newcastle
• Bachelor of Social Science from the University of Newcastle

Dr. Clancy's research focuses on translational research in Mental Health Clinical Practice, with particular expertise in Substance Use, Motivational Interviewing, and Comorbidity (Mental Health & Substance Use). His work emphasizes implementation science to bridge the gap between research evidence and clinical practice in mental health settings. He has conducted significant research on synthetic cannabinoids, tobacco use among people with mental illness, and the integration of physical health care within mental health services.

Analysis of Clancy's recent publications reveals a strong focus on translational research that addresses critical gaps in mental health service delivery. His work spans several key areas: substance use disorders (particularly synthetic cannabinoids), physical health comorbidities in mental illness, preventive care for chronic disease risk behaviors, and implementation strategies for evidence-based practices in mental health settings. Much of his recent work involves collaborative research examining how to effectively integrate preventive health services into routine mental health care.

Dr. Clancy has been involved in numerous research grants totaling over $1.1 million, with recent funding from organizations including Cancer Institute NSW, Australian Rotary Health, and Hunter New England Mental Health. His collaborative approach is evident in his extensive co-authorship with researchers across multiple disciplines and institutions.

As Nursing Research Fellow for Hunter New England Mental Health, Clancy chairs the Mental Health Nursing Research & Practice Development Unit. His current work involves promoting a clinical culture informed by research and pursuing his research into synthetic cannabis as part of a PhD program of study. He is actively involved in several studies exploring the use of synthetic cannabinoids, tobacco use by people with mental health problems, and the role of clinicians in addressing physical health issues for people accessing mental health services.