BIO
Smitha is an experienced social work professional with over 28 years of frontline and leadership experience across diverse health settings in Melbourne, Brisbane, and London. Her career spans both public and private hospital systems, where she has developed expertise in evidence‑based therapeutic interventions, including trauma‑informed care, systems‑based approaches, client‑centred practice, and strengths‑based frameworks.
She has held senior clinical and supervisory roles, providing leadership and professional guidance to multidisciplinary teams. During her tenure with one of Australia’s largest community palliative care providers, Smitha delivered specialist social work assessments and comprehensive psychosocial support to individuals living with terminal illness and their families. As Allied Health Leader, she oversaw a multidisciplinary workforce and championed holistic models of care that addressed the emotional, psychosocial, and spiritual well‑being of clients.
Smitha holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Monash University, a Graduate Certificate in Bereavement Intervention and Counselling, and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. This combination of clinical and educational qualifications underpins her work in adult learning, supervision, and capability development.
Her academic practice is informed by extensive clinical experience, critical reflection, and a strong commitment to equity and social justice. In her role at IHM, she is dedicated to supporting the development of future social workers by fostering critical thinking, a strong ethical foundation and the practical skills required to navigate contemporary and evolving Social Work practice environments.