Debra holds a very special and groundbreaking role within ISPS International. She was the first person with lived experience of psychosis to become a member of our Executive Committee and has continued to serve since 2012.

“Debra has been a tireless, articulate and persuasive advocate for the rights of people who hear voices and other unusual experiences for decades. She has been invited to speak all over the world not just at ISPS conferences. She has been a pioneer of the involvement experts by experience within ISPS.” John Read

She continues to be an inspiration to myself and many others around the world for her courage, tenacity, kindness and vision.

She is a senior tutor with the Centre for Mental Health Research and Policy Development at the University of Auckland and is Chair of ISPS New Zealand.

She was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for Services to Mental Health in 2023.

Biography by Jen Kilyon

More coming soon…