معرفی
Dr Sophie Lea is a Lecturer at Monash University in the School of Educational Psychology & Counselling, where she teaches in the Master of Counselling program and is accepting PhD students. She holds a PhD in Counselling Psychology from Monash University and has extensive experience in adolescent and family counselling, mental health education, and clinical supervision.
Education:
- PhD in Counselling Psychology, Monash University (Awarded: 10 Aug 2021)
- Graduate Certificate of Academic Research, Monash University (Awarded: 15 Jun 2016)
- Master of Counselling, Monash University (Awarded: 20 Apr 2006)
- Bachelor of Education, Deakin University (Awarded: 11 Dec 1996)
- Bachelor of Teaching (Primary), Deakin University (Awarded: 8 Dec 1995)
Her research focuses on Kindness Education, Trauma-Informed Healthcare Design, Youth Mental Health, and Emerging Therapist Supervision. She integrates psychological wellbeing with practical, evidence-based approaches to support young people’s self-awareness and self-actualisation. Her work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in education and mental health.
Recent publications (2022–2025) emphasize transgender youth mental health, kindness in schools, and evaluations of mental health programs. These works span qualitative inquiry, program evaluation, and policy-relevant research, reflecting a strong commitment to social justice, inclusive education, and trauma-informed practice.
Scientific Awards:
- EPC School Award for Early Career Research Excellence (2024)
Dr Lea is actively involved in advising and grant-funded research projects, including the Stand Up Project (2025–2027) and evaluations of youth mental health initiatives. She collaborates with organizations such as Satellite Foundation and Resilient Youth Australia. She serves as a clinical supervisor and advocate for the counselling profession within mental health care systems.
She is co-founder and director of Kind Schools Ltd, a not-for-profit promoting kindness in educational and therapeutic settings, and serves on the advisory board of Resilient Youth Australia. Her external roles include board membership with Living Ripples and the Australian Counselling Association, reflecting her leadership in both academic and community mental health spheres.
