Get Real: Talking mental health & disability

Helping children adapt to change in a global pandemic with Michelle Macpherson, pediatric psychologist

The team at ermha365 Episode 59

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Michelle Macpherson, a pediatric psychologist in Victoria, Australia with more than 20 years in the field of educational and developmental psychology.

 Michelle is passionate about supporting children to adapt to change and one of the ways she does this is through her initiative Dragonfly Global, to produce positive children's books.  Michelle founded this positive change movement in response to the COVID-19 global pandemic and its effects on children and families.   

Michelle realised the best way for her to help children navigate change was to write a children’s book that would entertain, empower, inspire and strengthen them.  That book is called A Global Pandemic Won’t Change Me – the story of Emily, a spirited young girl who embarks on a journey of self-discovery amidst a time of change and challenge.

Michelle has more books planned and a powerful vision for helping create positive change.

Find out more about Michelle's work and her debut children's book A Global Pandemic Won't Change Me  at Positive Children’s Books - Dragonfly Global (dragonflyglobal.com.au)

If you have been affected by anything discussed in this episode please contact:

  • Lifeline on 13 11 14
  • 13 YARN on 13 92 76 (24/7 crisis support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)

Produced and hosted by Emily Webb, ermha365 Advocacy and External Communications Advisor.

ermha365 acknowledges that our work in the community takes place on the Traditional Lands of many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and therefore respectfully recognise their Elders, past and present, and the ongoing Custodianship of the Land and Water by all Members of these Communities.



ermha365 provides mental health and disability support for people in Victoria and the Northern Territory. Find out more about our services at our website.

Helplines (Australia):

Lifeline 13 11 14
QLIFE 1800 184 527
13 YARN 13 92 76
Suicide Callback Service 1300 659 467

ermha365 acknowledges that our work in the community takes place on the Traditional Lands of many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and therefore respectfully recognise their Elders, past and present, and the ongoing Custodianship of the Land and Water by all Members of these Communities.

We recognise people with lived experience who contribute to GET REAL podcast, and those who love, support and care for them. We recognise their strength, courage and unique perspective as a vital contribution so that we can learn, grow and achieve better outcomes together.

People on this episode