Toby Newton-John

Professor Toby Newton-John is Head of the Graduate School of Health and Professor of Clinical Psychology at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). With over 30 years of experience as a clinical psychologist, he specializes in the psychological aspects of chronic physical illnesses, particularly chronic pain. His clinical work has spanned prestigious institutions including St Thomas' Hospital in London and the ADAPT pain program at Royal North Shore Hospital in Sydney.

• PhD in Clinical Psychology, University of London (1999)
• Masters in Clinical Psychology (Awarded with Merit), University of Sydney (1993)
• Bachelors of Arts (Hons Second Class Division One), University of Sydney (1989)

Professor Newton-John's research focuses on psychological processes involved in coping with chronic disease, with particular emphasis on how couples cope when one partner suffers from a long-term physical health condition. His work explores how the social environment influences long-term adjustment to chronically painful conditions, and he is passionate about applying mental health research insights to physical health domains. His recent research has expanded to include innovative interventions such as EEG neurofeedback for pain management and remote cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety disorders.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong trend toward technology-assisted interventions for chronic pain and anxiety disorders, with increasing focus on dyadic coping strategies, metaphor use in pain communication, and the psychological impact of chronic conditions on partners. His work spans multiple disciplines including clinical psychology, neuroscience, and health services research, demonstrating his interdisciplinary approach to understanding chronic illness.

Professor Newton-John serves on the editorial boards of the Canadian Journal of Pain and The International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, and is an Associate Editor of Australian Psychologist. He regularly reviews for leading journals including Pain, Clinical Journal of Pain, and the Journal of Health Psychology.

In terms of research supervision and grants, Professor Newton-John actively mentors Honours, Master's, and Doctoral students in clinical psychology. He currently leads multiple major funded research projects including The NeuRoStiM Trial (MRFF-funded), The Emotional Recovery Program (MRFF-funded), and NeuroGame (NHMRC Ideas Grant) focusing on innovative pain management interventions. His research has attracted significant funding from the Medical Research Future Fund and National Health and Medical Research Council.

Professor Newton-John directs the Graduate School of Health at UTS and previously served as Deputy Head of School-Research. He maintains clinical practice as a part-time Clinical Psychologist at North Shore Private Hospital's Northern Private Pain Centre while leading his academic responsibilities.