Hi everyone. I obtained my Medical Degree from the University of Manitoba, my specialty degree in Psychiatry from the University of Toronto and my Masters in Neuroscience degree (with Distinction) from the University of London, England. I am currently a Clinical Professor within the Department of Psychiatry at the University of British Columbia. For over three decades, I have been a longstand contributor to the field of continuing medical education and professional development. My activities have focused on the innovative integration of the humanities into a range of educational initiatives, such as the ‘Frames of Mind’ (www.framesofmind.ca) and ‘Canadian Psychiatric Association-at-the-Movies’ mental health film series.
Additionally, as an alumnus of Simon Fraser University’s Writers’ Studio, I have written two novels wherein I utilize my knowledge and expertise as a psychiatrist. My first novel, The Evolution of Inanimate Objects was longlisted for the Wellcome Trust Book Prize which celebrates books which illuminate the theme of health, illness and medicine. In 2014, HarperCollins UK and Coach House Books published my second novel, The Stonehenge Letters, selected by Quill and Quire as one of the best books of 2014.
My honours include Baycrest Hospital’s Munk Geriatric Award; a Clinical Traineeship Award from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada; a Lady Davis Visiting Professor Fellowship, Technion University, Israel; the CPA/COPCE Award for outstanding Continuing Medical Education Activity within Canada; the Lil Hewton Bursary Award to conduct archival research related to the history of psychiatry, the inaugural UBC Faculty of Medicine Innovation in CME award, and the Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division’s Professional Services Award.