Digital Mental Health for Teenagers: What Works, What's Hype, and How Parents Can Help

About the Speaker and Lecture

Dr Alexis Whitton is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of New South Wales and Co-Director of the NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Depression Treatment Precision at the Black Dog Institute. She is an internationally recognised leader in digital mental health, with a particular focus on improving how mental health care is tailored and delivered.

Trained in Australia and the United States, including at Harvard Medical School, Dr Whitton has led pioneering work at the intersection of psychology, technology, and clinical care. She co-developed Australia’s first smartphone-based intervention for depression, now used by more than 250,000 people, and has authored over 100 scientific publications, many of which focus on how digital tools can be used safely and effectively to support mental wellbeing.

Alongside her research, Dr Whitton is a registered psychologist with expertise in novel and emerging treatments for depression. She currently leads a multidisciplinary team of more than 20 researchers developing personalised, evidence-based digital mental health tools, with a strong emphasis on accessibility, safety, and real-world impact.

Dr Whitton’s work is driven by a commitment to ensuring that advances in mental health research translate into meaningful, practical support, particularly for young people.

About The Ultimo Series

The Ultimo Series at IGS fosters meaningful conversations about contemporary issues, equipping students, parents, educators and the Community with insights to navigate the evolving world. Hosted by Thom Marchbank Deputy Principal Senior School, this exclusive lecture series brings together leading experts to explore critical issues shaping our world. Engage with renowned thought leaders, participate in dynamic Q&A sessions, and connect with a Community passionate about knowledge, diversity and growth. This is more than just a lecture – it’s an opportunity to expand your perspective and be part of meaningful conversations.

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