Melissa Oxlad

Associate Professor Melissa Oxlad

Associate Professor / Reader

School of Psychology

Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences

Eligible to supervise Masters and PhD - email supervisor to discuss availability.

I'm a Clinical and Health Psychologist with extensive clinical experience working in the public sector, not for profit sector and private practice. I returned to academia as I genuinely missed teaching. In my teaching, I design my classes and use examples to help students apply the knowledge and skills they are learning to real-world situations and give them important skills that will assist them in enhancing their employability. In 2020, I received two awards for my teaching. I was the recipient of the University of Adelaide Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences Executive Dean's Teaching Excellence Award (Level A/B) and the Australian Psychological Society Early Career Teaching Award. In 2024, I was made a Fellow of the Australian Psychological Society and a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (UK).

Research Interests
I have diverse research interests but try to concentrate my efforts in three main areas: (1) Reproductive health and rights; (2) Chronic illness; and (3) Teaching and learning.

(1) Reproductive health and rights: I study how psychology can help in the beginning of life. I'm interested in what people know, or don’t know, about fertility and conception. I’m also interested in how people cope with difficulties conceiving, health issues during pregnancy and pregnancy losses such as miscarriage and stillbirth. Difficulties related to reproductive health or rights can cause deep and long-lasting pain. My work focuses on how to help people (and those who care for them, such health professionals), better navigate these difficulties to be able to live mentally healthier lives. This has obvious benefits for the individuals involved, but also for the communities they live and work in.

(2) Chronic illness: I explore relationships between physical, psychological and social health. I’m interested in how people make sense of, adjust to, and live with chronic illnesses, particularly cancer, diabetes and cardiac health issues. I’m also interested in how people gather health information, and where, and who, people seek support from in managing their health. Living with a chronic illness can be extremely difficult for people. My research focuses on the complex impacts of illness, the use and benefits of different sources of support such as health professionals and peer support and interventions to help with wellbeing. Examining how people live with chronic illness, their support systems, and the effectiveness of different interventions enables people to learn better ways to manage their illness and to achieve a greater quality of life.

(3) Teaching and learning: My love of teaching sparked my interest in research about teaching and learning. I'm interested in studying diverse ways to design, teach and assess student learning. I want to understand innovative and effective ways to teach, support and assess student learning so that students can better understand and apply their learning.

My research interests involve the contributions psychology can make to reproductive health, people living with chronic illness and improving teaching and learning. With regards to reproductive health, I'm interested in fertility knowledge, attitudes to fertility preservation, infertility and infertility treatments, infertility help-seeking, coping with infertility, health behaviours to aid conception, donor conception, surrogacy, pregnancy-related anxiety, pregnancy loss and stillbirth. In the area of chronic illness, my interests include how people make sense of, adjust to, and live with chronic illness, health literacy, health information seeking, help-seeking behaviour, health communication and peer support for chronic illness. In teaching and learning, I'm interested in innovative, evidence-based ways to teach that enhance students' employment skills and assessments that let students apply their learning to real world situations. I use quantitative, qualitative or mixed methods and review methodologies.

Recent media: 

Donor sperm counselling with Dr Melissa Oxlad, Psychologist (thefannymechanic.com)

What To When A Doctor Dismisses Your Problem | Girlfriend

http://blogs.biomedcentral.com/bmcseriesblog/2020/01/10/the-father-is-just-as-upset-why-we-need-multi-level-strategies-to-support-men-when-a-baby-dies/

https://theconversation.com/when-a-baby-is-stillborn-grandparents-are-hit-with-two-lots-of-grief-heres-how-we-can-help-122313

                                                                  Research Projects 2025

I really enjoy supervising student research at all levels (i.e., interns, vacation scholarship, Honours, Masters, PhD). I find it rewarding getting to know my students and helping them to develop their skills and find a keen interest in research. I have high expectations but support my students to achieve their best results. I do this through having ideas about possible topics and methodologies but allowing the projects to evolve with student input. I schedule regular supervision meetings for the duration of the project and make additional time available as needed. I provide a clear structure and timeline for projects, setting mini-deadlines to ensure timely progress. Where possible, I work with students to help them publish their research.

My main areas of research are described above. For 2025, I will be supervising Honours, Masters and PhD students. Most student projects will focus on women's health, men's health, reproductive health, diabetes or scholarship of teaching. My preferred research methods are qualitative (i.e., thematic analysis, content analysis and meta-synthesis - a way of synthesising existing qualitative research to generate recommendations to improve care) and quantitative (i.e., regression, meta-analysis - a way of summarising existing quantitative research to generate high-level evidence).

  • Appointments
    Date Position Institution name
    2024 - ongoing Deputy Head - School of Psychology University of Adelaide
    2024 - ongoing Associate Professor University of Adelaide
    2021 - 2023 Deputy Chair of Programs Board University of Adelaide
    2021 - 2023 Member, Human Research Ethics Committee Low-Risk Review Group, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Adelaide
    2021 - 2023 Senior Lecturer University of Adelaide
    2017 - 2020 Lecturer University of Adelaide
    2014 - 2017 National Patient Advocacy Coordinator Leukaemia Foundation
    2013 - 2014 Support Services Coordinator Leukaemia Foundation
    2008 - 2022 Clinical and Health Psychologist Private Practice
    2007 - 2008 Clinical Psychologist Royal Adelaide Hospital - Cancer Centre
    2006 - 2007 Senior Clinical Psychologist Child Protection Services
    2005 - 2006 Clinical Psychologist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services

  • Awards and Achievements
    Date Type Title Institution Name Country Amount
    2024 Fellowship Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA) Higher Education Academy United Kingdom -
    2020 Teaching Award Australian Psychological Society Early Career Teaching Award Australian Psychological Society Australia -
    2020 Teaching Award University of Adelaide Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences Executive Dean's Award for Teaching Excellence University of Adelaide Australia -

  • Education
    Date Institution name Country Title
    2001 - 2005 Flinders University, Adelaide Australia PhD
    1997 - 1998 University of Adelaide Australia MPsych (Clinical and Health)
    1996 - 1996 University of South Australia, Adelaide Australia BA Hons (Psychology)
    1993 - 1995 University of Adelaide, Adelaide Australia BA

  • Postgraduate Training
    Date Title Institution Country
    2008 - 2009 Diploma in Clinical Hypnosis Australian Society of Hypnosis Australia

  • Research Interests
    Clinical Psychology Developmental & Child Psychology Health Promotion Health, Clinical and Counselling Psychology Maternal Health Mental Health Psychology Cancer Biology and Clinical Oncology Cardiac, Respiratory and Vascular Health Child and Adolescent Health Fertility and Conception Men's Health Pregnancy and Birth
Date Project Investigators Funding Body Amount AUD
2025-2027 Experiences of children with early-stage type 1 diabetes and their families in three Australian monitoring cohorts: what matters most for engagement in a national program? Couper J, Oxlad M, Sawyer A, Wentworth J, McGorm K, Penno M, Bell K, Craig M, Huynh T, Davis E, Haynes A Breakthrough T1D $285,000
2025-2027 Addressing Unmet Emotional Wellbeing Care Needs Among Children and Adolescents with Type 2 Diabetes: A Mixed-Methods Longitudinal Evaluation of Diabetes-Specific Distress and Emotional Wellbeing Pena A, Oxlad M, Louise J Channel 7 Children's Research Fund $90,679
2024 Occupational Justice Case Narratives with Marginalised Women in India. George E, Prince C, Moorthy S, Oxlad M, Whiteford G, D’Souza B, Tetali S, Murthy GVS, Acharya V, Padankatti S, Kumar S, Sy M Early Grant Development Award. Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences Internal Strategic Research Support Schemes. $20,000
2024 Investigating Bereaved Parents’ Experiences of Memorial Keepsake Portraits and Their Influence on Grief After Perinatal Loss. Oxlad M, D’Souza, L, & Reinboth L. Early Grant Development Award. Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences Internal Strategic Research Support Schemes. $3,564
2023 Exploring How Cost and Variable Access to Financial Assistance Affects the Wellbeing of People Seeking or Undertaking Assisted Reproductive Technology for Infertility Oxlad M, Grieger JA Ferring Pharmaceuticals Australia $50,000
2023 Improving Access to Culturally Responsive Information on Perinatal Mental Wellbeing for Women from Refugee and Migrant Backgrounds Boyle J, Kadwadkar M, Slewa-Younan S, Reupert A, Ratnam C, Oxlad M, De Souza L, Ma L, Syed S, Arnott L MRFF - Emerging Priorities & Consumer Driven Research Initiative (via Women's Health Research, Translation, & Impact Network) $190,000
2023 Farm Business Resilience Program Corsi A, Graves C, Oxlad M, Bowman G, Carruso L, Dolan R, Giancaspro M, Tokic Z PIRSA/Wine Grape Council of SA $210,000
2022 Evaluating the Effectiveness of Two Pilot Programs to Increase the Uptake of Child Development Checks in South Australia Sawyer A, Oxlad M, Due C, Taylor A, McDonald D SA Department for Education and Child Development Research  $70,671
2022 The Begin Better Randomised trial  Dodd JM, Poprzeczny A, Louise J, Keir A, Pham C, Laws R, Briley A, Turnbull D, Campbell K, Oxlad M MRFF (ID 1199789) $2,790,917
2022 Behavioural Impacts on Children after the Perinatal Death of a Sibling Oxlad M, Due C Robert John Chapman Bequest $8,000
2022 A Group Psychological Intervention to Improve the Wellbeing and Pregnancy Rates for Women Undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technologies for Infertility Warne E, Oxlad M, Best T South Australian Society of Hypnosis $5,000
2021 WorkGain: Stakeholder Experiences of a Work-Specific Rehabilitation Program Dorstyn D, Chur-Hansen A, Oxlad M, Roberts R (University of Adelaide), Fedoric B, Roberts T (WorkGain) Lifetime Support Authority of South Australia $120,100
2021 Men's Unmet Psychosocial Needs when Diagnosed with Male Infertility McPherson N, Turnbull D, Oxlad M Ferring Pharmaceuticals Australia $49,591
2021/22 Women's Lived Experiences of Transvaginal Mesh Surgery: Health Professional Communication and Other Factors Affecting Quality of Life Oxlad M, Edwards G University of Adelaide Summer Research Scholarship $1,200
2021/22 Psychosocial Health Perspectives Relevant to Deep Space Habitation: A Scoping Review Oxlad M, Carter A, Hrvatin P University of Adelaide Summer Research Scholarship/Andy Thomas Centre for Space Resources $1,200
2020/21 Interprofessional Learning Oxlad M, Gloede University of Adelaide Summer Research Scholarship $1,200
2020 Student Perceptions of Simulation-Based Learning in Professional Psychology Training Programs Oxlad M School of Psychology, University of Adelaide $3,185
2020 Psychological Perspectives Among Women with Infertility: A Qualitative Study in Malang, Indonesia Gayatri M, Suparman, S, Barasabha T, Madjri A, Turnbull D, Oxlad M, Pratiwi W, & Puteri VA Universitas Brawijaya $2,300 (IRP 23,000,000)
2019 Employment Experiences when Living with Multiple Sclerosis Oxlad M School of Psychology Research Committee Funding, University of Adelaide $3,500
2019 Development and Evaluation of an Online Education and Peer-Supported Intervention for Job-Seekers with Multiple Sclerosis: A Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial. Dorstyn D, Roberts R, Oxlad  M (University of Adelaide), Craig A (University of Sydney), Kneebone I (University of Technology Sydney), Murphy G (La Trobe University) Multiple Sclerosis Research Australia Incubator Grant $25,000
2019 Stress as a Barrier to Optimal Clinical Performance in Third-Year Dental Students Stow L, Oxlad, M, Zilm P, Wilson D, & Van Den Heuvel C RIGB Small Grant, Adelaide Dental School, University of Adelaide $11,102
2019 Peer Support in Cancer Oxlad M Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences New Appointment Funding, University of Adelaide $5,000
2009 The Experience of Related Bone Marrow Donors: Qualitative Assessment of Donor Support Needs and Health Behaviours Oxlad M School of Psychology, University of Adelaide $1,540
2004 Travel Grant – for oral presentation at 8th International Congress of Behavioral Medicine, Mainz, Germany Oxlad M School of Psychology Conference Travel Grant, Flinders University $750
2004 Travel Grant – for oral presentation at 8th International Congress of Behavioral Medicine, Mainz, Germany.  Oxlad M Flinders University Scholarships Office Research Student Conference Travel Grant, Flinders University $2,630
2002 Psychological Adjustment and its Effects on Physical Outcomes Following Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery (CABG) Oxlad M Flinders University Research Budget, Flinders University $1,441

 

 

Teaching Awards and Recognition:
Date Award Organisation
2024 Senior Fellow Higher Education Academy (UK)
2020 Australian Psychological Society Early Career Teaching Award Australian Psychological Society
2020 Executive Dean's Teaching Award - Level A/B University of Adelaide, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences
Program Co-ordination:
Date Program Level
2018 - 2025 Master of Psychology (Health) Postgraduate (Masters)  
Course Co-ordination:
Date Course Level
2024 - Present Evidence-Based Practice (PSYCHOL 7130, PSYCHOL 7230, & PSYCHOL 7330) Postgraduate (Masters)
2022 - 2024 Research Internship (PSYCHOL 3029) Undergraduate (Level II/Level III)
2020 - 2022 Psychology Internship (PSYCHOL 3028) Undergraduate (Level II/Level III)
2021 - 2025 Research Project I and II (PSYCHOL 7244 & PSYCHOL 7245) Postgraduate (Masters)
2018 - 2021  Psychological Assessment (PSYCHOL 7232) Postgraduate (Masters)
2018 - 2022  Health Psychology (PSYCHOL 7134 & PSYCHOL 7234) Postgraduate (Masters)
2018 - 2020 Master of Psychology (Health) Placement Coordinator (PSYCHOL 7240, 7241 & 7243)  Postgraduate (Masters)
2017 Research Methods in Psychology (PSYCHOL 1004) Undergraduate (Level I)
Teaching:
Date Course Level
2024-Present Evidence-Based Practice (PSYCHOL 7130, PSYCHOL 7230, & PSYCHOL 7330) Postgraduate (Masters)
2023 Applied Psychological Interventions and Research (PSYCHOL 4313) Undergraduate (Level IV/Honours)
2022 - 2025 Research Project I (PSYCHOL 7244) Postgraduate (Masters)
2022 - 2024 Research Internship (PSYCHOL 3029) Undergraduate (Level II/Level III)
2022 - 2024 Foundations of Health and Lifespan Development (PSYCHOL 2005) Undergraduate (Level II)
2020-2024 Honours Thesis in Psychology Part I (PSYCHOL 4300A) Undergraduate (Level IV/Honours)
2020 Advanced Career and Research Skills (PSYCHOL 3011A) Undergraduate (Level III)
2020 - 2022 Psychology Internship (PSYCHOL 3028) Undergraduate (Level II/Level III)
2018 - 2021  Psychological Assessment (PSYCHOL 7232) Postgraduate (Masters)
2018 - Present    Health Psychology (PSYCHOL 7134 & PSYCHOL 7234) Postgraduate (Masters)
2018 - Present    Master of Psychology (Health) Internal Placement Supervisor (PSYCHOL 7240, 7241 & 7243)  Postgraduate (Masters)
2018-Present Interviewing and Intervention (PSYCHOL 7231) Postgraduate (Masters)
2018 - 2023 Current Issues in Psychology (PSYCHOL 4302) Undergraduate (Level IV/Honours)
2018 Big Picture Psychology: Global Challenges, Psychological Perspectives (PSYCHOL 2008) Undergraduate (Level II)
2018 Introduction to Psychology (PSYCHOL 1100) Postgraduate (Graduate entry)
2017 Psychology in Society (PSYCHOL 2007) Undergraduate (Level II)
2017 Foundations of Health and Lifespan Development (PSYCHOL 2005) Undergraduate (Level II)
2017 Foundations of Cognition and Perception (PSYCHOL 2006) Undergraduate (Level II)
2017 Research Methods in Psychology (PSYCHOL 1004) Undergraduate (Level I)
2017 Psychology 1B (PSYCHOL 1001) Undergraduate (Level I)

  

  • Current Higher Degree by Research Supervision (University of Adelaide)
    Date Role Research Topic Program Degree Type Student Load Student Name
    2024 Co-Supervisor Sexuality and Sexual Health Doctor of Philosophy Doctorate Full Time Miss Georgia Rose Breakey
    2024 Co-Supervisor Health Literacy and its Association with Biopsychosocial Health Outcomes Among People with Spinal Cord Injury. Doctor of Philosophy Doctorate Full Time Miss Georgina Edwards
    2024 Co-Supervisor Enabling occupational transition, participation and social inclusion for women leaving ritualistic sexual slavery in rural Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Doctor of Philosophy Doctorate Part Time Ms Caitlin Prince
    2024 Co-Supervisor The use of pre-recorded evidence for 'vulnerable' witnesses in South Australia. Doctor of Philosophy Doctorate Full Time Jemma May Holt
    2024 Co-Supervisor Investigating the Experiences of LGBTQIA+ Individuals Engaging Online and the Effects on their Mental and Physical Wellbeing Doctor of Philosophy Doctorate Full Time Miss Alex Penfold
    2023 Co-Supervisor The psychosocial experiences of people living with a cardiac implantable electronic device a biopsychosocial perspective Doctor of Philosophy Doctorate Full Time Mr Mitchell Martin Nicmanis
    2022 Principal Supervisor Employing Mind-body Therapies for People with Persistent Pain Post-Stroke Doctor of Philosophy Doctorate Full Time Ms Nicole Prideaux
    2020 Principal Supervisor Group Psychological Interventions to Improve Outcomes to Women Undergoing Fertility Treatment Doctor of Philosophy Doctorate Part Time Mrs Emma Joy Warne

  • Past Higher Degree by Research Supervision (University of Adelaide)
    Date Role Research Topic Program Degree Type Student Load Student Name
    2021 - 2025 Co-Supervisor Psychotherapeutic Projects and Personal Interests: A Conversation Analytic Investigation of Talk in Initial Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Consultations Doctor of Philosophy Doctorate Full Time Mr Thomas James Bradshaw
    2021 - 2024 Principal Supervisor Deliberate Restriction and/or Omission of Insulin to Influence Weight, Shape and/or Appearance Among Males with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Doctor of Philosophy Doctorate Full Time Miss Georgia Brooke Goddard
    2019 - 2023 Principal Supervisor Grandparents’ Experiences of Grief and Support Needs Following the Perinatal Loss of a Grandchild Doctor of Philosophy/Master of Psychology (Health) Doctorate Full Time Ms Jane Belinda Lockton
    2019 - 2022 Co-Supervisor Promoting Lifestyle Change in the Preconception Period: Development of the Begin Better eHealth Intervention Doctor of Philosophy Doctorate Full Time Mrs Jodie Michelle Scott
    2019 - 2020 Principal Supervisor Male Discourses of Anxiety and Help-Seeking in an Online Discussion Forum Doctor of Philosophy Doctorate Full Time Dr Phoebe Grace Drioli-Phillips
    2018 - 2024 Principal Supervisor Power in Modern Romantic Relationships: A Multiple Methods Examination of How Perceptions and Experiences of Romantic Power Impact Personal and Relationship Outcomes Doctor of Philosophy Doctorate Part Time Dr Stephenie Joulie Pagoudis
    2018 - 2021 Principal Supervisor The #MeToo Movement: A Mixed Methods Analysis of Content Posted and Perceptions of Benefit and Harm Doctor of Philosophy Doctorate Full Time Ms Chloe Luke Drewett
    2018 - 2022 Co-Supervisor Men's experiences of grief and support following pregnancy loss and neonatal death Doctor of Philosophy/Master of Psychology (Health) Doctorate Full Time Dr Kate Louise Obst
    2008 - 2013 Co-Supervisor 'If you don't manage diabetes it will manage you': Type two diabetes self-management in rural Australia Doctor of Philosophy Doctorate Full Time Ms Laura Jones

  • Other Supervision Activities
    Date Role Research Topic Location Program Supervision Type Student Load Student Name
    2025 - ongoing Principal Supervisor Australian Women's Descriptions of Perimenopause and Menopause Knowledge and Education University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychology (Advanced) Honours Honours Full Time Simran Gusain
    2025 - ongoing Principal Supervisor Women's Experiences of Insufficient HRT Availability During Menopause University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychology (Advanced) Honours Honours Full Time Grace Davies
    2025 - ongoing Principal Supervisor The Biopsychosocial Impacts and Support Experiences of Sarcoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Full Time Bianca Nash-Smith
    2025 - ongoing Principal Supervisor South Asian Adults’ Experiences of Type 2 Diabetes Management: A Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Full Time Aliza Khokhar
    2025 - ongoing Principal Supervisor Women’s Experiences of Healthcare Professionals’ Invalidation of Their Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Full Time Isobel Harris
    2024 - ongoing Principal Supervisor The Cost of Infertility: Australians’ Perceptions of How Medicare Rebates Influence Psychological Wellbeing During Fertility Treatment University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Clinical) Master Part Time Georgia Reeves
    2024 - 2024 Co-Supervisor Adolescents with Type 2 Diabetes: Diabetes Management and Psychosocial Outcomes University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Other Full Time Ella Borrowdale
    2024 - 2024 Co-Supervisor Adolescents with Type 2 Diabetes: Diabetes Management and Psychosocial Outcomes University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Other Full Time Tyla McNamara
    2024 - ongoing Co-Supervisor Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Adolescents with Type 2 Diabates University of Adelaide Advanced Training Research Project Other - Maheesha Fernando
    2024 - ongoing Principal Supervisor Paid Menstrual Leave: A Qualitative Exploration of Australian Males’ Perceptions of Its Impacts on Leave Takers and Their Work Colleagues University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Full Time Ms Brooke Norris
    2024 - 2024 Principal Supervisor The Impact of Microaggressions on the Mental Health of Trans and Gender-Diverse People: A Scoping Review University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Clinical) Master Full Time Ms Bethany Kimber
    2024 - ongoing Principal Supervisor Fathers’ Experiences of Termination of Pregnancy for Fetal Anomaly: A Scoping Review University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Clinical) Master Full Time Ms Katherine Trail
    2024 - ongoing Principal Supervisor Autistic Womens' Concerns and Experiences During the Perinatal Period University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Full Time Ms Jessica Archer
    2023 - ongoing Co-Supervisor Disordered Eating and Lipodema Central Queensland University Doctor of Philosophy Doctorate Full Time Ms Amy Roberts
    2023 - 2023 Co-Supervisor Adolescents with Type 2 Diabetes: Diabetes Management and Psychosocial Outcomes University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Other Part Time Ms Ashley Young
    2023 - 2023 Co-Supervisor Adolescents with Type 2 Diabetes: Diabetes Management and Psychosocial Outcomes University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Other Full Time Ms Lorraine Smith
    2023 - 2024 Principal Supervisor The Emotional Burden of Gestational Diabetes: A Thematic Analysis Exploring Women’s Emotions in Response to Interactions with Family, Friends and Health Professionals After Diagnosis University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Part Time Ms Jessica D'Annunzio
    2023 - ongoing Co-Supervisor Addressing the Impact of Disordered Eating on Type 2 Diabetes Development, Physical and Mental Health Outcomes Central Queensland University Doctor of Philosophy Higher Doctorate Full Time Ms Emma Reid
    2023 - 2024 Co-Supervisor “Nobody asked me, as a dad, how I was coping”: Exploring Paternal Postnatal Support Needs University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Clinical) Master Full Time Ms Claire Searson
    2023 - 2023 Co-Supervisor "Right now I feel ok but more so that I am surviving not thriving”: Experiences of Sharing the Parenting with a Person Diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Clinical) Master Full Time Ms Claire Pascoe
    2023 - 2023 Principal Supervisor Providing a Safe Space: Australian Mental Health Clinicians' Comprehension and Experience of LGBTIQ+ Cultural Competency University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Clinical) Master Full Time Mr Jacob Prout
    2023 - 2023 Co-Supervisor Diabetes Distress Among Adolescents with Type 2 Diabetes University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychology(Advanced) Other Full Time Ms Hajar Yassini
    2023 - 2023 Co-Supervisor Diabetes Distress Among Adolescents with Type 2 Diabetes University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychology(Advanced) Other Full Time Ms Livinia Xia-Bednikov
    2023 - 2023 Principal Supervisor “I got into the industry to make a difference to the welfare and rights of animals and that is what I am going to do. No matter the toll it takes on me.” A Mixed Methods Exploration of Moral Distress, Wellbeing and Attrition Among Veterinary Students in Australia University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychology(Advanced) Honours Honours Part Time Ms Kate Flynn
    2023 - 2023 Principal Supervisor Navigating Endometriosis Care: A Content Analysis of Women’s Online Accounts of Doctor-Patient Relationships University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) Honours Part Time Ms Hayley Grant
    2023 - 2023 Principal Supervisor Attrition Rates in Dietary Behaviour Change Interventions for Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) Honours Full Time Ms Lauren Jaensch
    2023 - 2023 Co-Supervisor Australian Women’s Perceptions of Menstrual Leave Impacts on Employees and Employers/Workplaces: A Content Analysis Comparing Perceptions of Women Employed in Male-Dominated and Female-Dominated Industries University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) Honours Full Time Ms Amelia Vallelonga
    2023 - 2023 Co-Supervisor A Mixed Methods Analysis of Australian Women’s Reported Intentions to Use Paid Menstrual Leave University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) Honours Part Time Ms Aesha Duong
    2023 - 2023 Co-Supervisor “I Don’t Want To Feel Judged”: A Qualitative Study Of Adolescents’ Experiences Of Type 2 Diabetes Diagnosis And Management And Its Impacts On Wellbeing University of Adelaide Advanced Training Research Project - The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (Paediatrics) Other - Gitanjali Subramani
    2023 - 2023 Co-Supervisor The Impact of Culture on Grief Experiences After Stillbirth for Mothers Living in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-synthesis University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Part Time Ms Shazleen Azeez
    2022 - 2023 Co-Supervisor Pain and Prejudice: A Mixed Methods Study Exploring Australian Women's Attitudes Towards Paid Menstrual Leave University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Full Time Ms Amy Wong
    2022 - 2023 Principal Supervisor Experiences of Women with Breast Cancer Disclosing Cancer-Related Cognitive Impairment to Health Professionals: A Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Full Time Ms Susan Hamilton
    2022 - 2023 Principal Supervisor Young Men’s Perspectives of Male Gender Transformative Health Promotion Programs: A Systematic Review and Meta-synthesis University of Adelaide Master of Psychology(Health) Master Full Time Mr Yianni Sianis
    2022 - 2022 Principal Supervisor Health Professionals' Experiences Supporting People with Type 1 Diabetes who Restrict or Omit Insulin University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Other Full Time Ms Lauren Jaensch
    2022 - 2022 Principal Supervisor Parents' and Health Professionals' Experiences of Stillbirth Bereavement Photography University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychology(Advanced) Other Full Time Ms Elisabeth Franke
    2022 - 2022 Principal Supervisor New Frontiers in Reproductive Health: Australians’ Views Concerning the Availability, Medicare Subsidisation and Ethical Acceptance of Uterus Transplantation University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychology(Advanced) Honours Honours Full Time Ms Annabelle Law
    2022 - 2022 Principal Supervisor Health Professionals' Knowledge of and Experiences Identifying and Responding to Reproductive Coercion Among Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) Honours Full Time Ms Georgia Reeves
    2022 - 2022 Principal Supervisor Understanding Internalised Weight Bias in Australian Males: Exploring Relationships Between Internalised Weight Bias, Self-Compassion and Health Outcomes University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychology(Advanced) Honours Honours Full Time Ms Bethany Kimber
    2022 - 2022 Principal Supervisor Investigating the Great Unknown: A Cross-Sectional Survey Examining Australian Males’ Knowledge of Male Fertility University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) Honours Full Time Ms Brooke Norris
    2022 - 2022 Co-Supervisor “I’m Only the Man”: Psychological Responses and Experiences of Support for Men During IVF in Australia University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) Honours Part Time Mr Isaac Hill
    2022 - 2022 Principal Supervisor Australian Stakeholders’ Perspectives on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and The Integration of These Views in Healthcare Services University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Part Time Ms Molly Arendt
    2022 - 2022 Principal Supervisor Healthcare Professionals’ Perceptions of Voluntary Assisted Dying in South Australia University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Full Time Ms Jo Butler
    2021 - 2022 Principal Supervisor Women’s Lived Experiences of Transvaginal Mesh Implant Surgery: Health Professional Communication and Other Factors Affecting Quality of Life University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Other Full Time Ms Georgina Edwards
    2021 - 2022 Principal Supervisor Psychosocial Health Perspectives Relevant to Deep Space Habitation: A Scoping Review University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Other Part Time Mr Adam James Carter
    2021 - 2022 Principal Supervisor Psychosocial Health Perspectives Relevant to Deep Space Habitation: A Scoping Review University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Other Part Time Ms Porscha Hrvatin
    2021 - 2021 Principal Supervisor Mapping Work-Integrated Learning in the Undergraduate Psychology Curriculum University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Other Full Time Ms Louisa O'Donnell
    2021 - 2021 Co-Supervisor Communicating Cancer-Related Information with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples: A Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) Honours Full Time Ms Naomi Thornthwaite
    2021 - 2021 Principal Supervisor Pregnant Women’s Attitudes Towards Alcohol Consumption During Pregnancy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Part Time Dr Phoebe Drioli-Phillips
    2021 - 2021 Principal Supervisor Australian Gay Fathers' Experiences of Family Formation Through Surrogacy University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Honours Full Time Mr Jacob Prout
    2021 - 2021 Principal Supervisor Intended Parents' Experiences of Surrogacy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Honours Part Time Ms Jill Hobson
    2021 - 2021 Principal Supervisor Experiences of Pregnancy Loss in Low and Low-Middle Income Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Honours Full Time Ms Sharni Whitburn
    2021 - 2021 Principal Supervisor Crossing Borders for Reproductive Care: A Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis of Intended Parents' Experiences University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) Honours Full Time Ms Jessica Archer
    2020 - 2020 Principal Supervisor Teaching Interprofessional Collaboration in Undergraduate and Postgraduate Psychology University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Other Full Time Ms Tessa Gloede
    2020 - 2021 Principal Supervisor Parents' Experiences After the Death of a Child from Cancer: A Qualitative Examination of Perceptions of Bereavement Care Services and Support University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Full Time Ms Isabella Loxton
    2020 - 2020 Principal Supervisor “I have no life and neither do the ones watching me suffer”: Women’s Lived Experiences of Transvaginal Mesh Implant Surgery. University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Full Time Ms Kate McKinlay
    2020 - 2020 Principal Supervisor Knowledge and Attitudes of Australian Women Towards Cervical Cancer Screening. University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Full Time Dr Sze Yan Cheung
    2020 - 2020 Principal Supervisor Experiences of Insulin Restriction or Omission in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and Evidence-Based Guidance for Practice: A Meta-Synthesis of Patient Experiences. University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Full Time Ms Georgia Goddard
    2020 - 2020 Principal Supervisor Perceptions of Clinic-Related Stress Among a Cohort of Australian Third-Year Dental Students University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Honours Full Time Mr Joash Abraham
    2020 - 2020 Principal Supervisor Food Choices: The Influence of Physical Activity Calorie Equivalent Food Labelling University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Honours Full Time Ms Chelsea Alexander
    2020 - 2020 Principal Supervisor Australian Women's Knowledge of and Attitudes towards Non-Medical Oocyte Cryopreservation University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Honours Full Time Ms Molly Arendt
    2020 - 2020 Principal Supervisor Adding More Layers to Loss: LGBTQ+ People's Experiences of Pregnancy Loss University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Honours Part Time Ms Alice Rose
    2020 - 2020 Principal Supervisor "I really didn't even think secondary infertility was a thing until we experienced it": Australian Pregnancy Carriers and Partners Experiences of Secondary Infertility University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Honours Full Time Ms Georgina Draxler
    2020 - 2020 Co-Supervisor Neonatal Death: Grief and Support Experiences of Fathers in the Australian Context University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Honours Full Time Ms Shazleen Azeez
    2019 - 2019 Co-Supervisor "It’s all on me": Exploring Experiences of Parents with Hearing-Impaired Children in the NDIS and Impact on Family Wellbeing. University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Full Time Ms Angela Asimakopoulos
    2019 - 2019 Principal Supervisor A Qualitative Exploration of Individuals Preferences, Expectations, Lived Experiences and Satisfaction with Treatment for Depression. University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Clinical) Master Full Time Ms Sarah Funnell
    2019 - 2019 Principal Supervisor The Lived Experience of Myocardial Infarction. University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Clinical) Master Full Time Ms Schae Matthews
    2019 - 2019 Principal Supervisor Support Sought and Received Online for Miscarriage: Content Analysis of a Facebook Support Group University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Honours Part Time Ms Sophie Callan
    2019 - 2019 Principal Supervisor Attitudes of the Australian Public to Current and Emerging Reproductive Technologies University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Honours Full Time Ms Jessica D'Annunizio
    2018 - 2019 Principal Supervisor Comparing the Lived Experience of Men and Women Bereaved by Stillbirth: A Meta-synthesis of Qualitative Studies. University of Adelaide Master of Clinical Psychology (Defence) Master Part Time Ms Natasha Robinson
    2018 - 2019 Principal Supervisor Psychosocial Risk Factors for Depression Among Women with Endometriosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Full Time Ms Louise S. Twyford
    2018 - 2019 Principal Supervisor News Media Stories about Cancer on Facebook: How Does Story Framing Influence Response Framing, Tone and Attributions of Responsibility? University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Full Time Ms Tegan Starr
    2018 - 2019 Principal Supervisor Factors Associated with Pregnancy-Related Anxiety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Honours Full Time Ms Amber Murray
    2018 - 2018 Principal Supervisor The Effectiveness of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy-Based Interventions for Depression with Non-Metastatic Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Honours Full Time Ms Shagun Chawla
    2018 - 2018 Co-Supervisor Love, Listen and Learn: Grandparents' Experiences of Pregnancy Loss University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Honours Full Time Ms Jane Lockton
    2018 - 2018 Principal Supervisor Assessing Fertility Knowledge: Development and Validation of the Male and Female Fertility Knowledge Inventories University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science Honours Full Time Ms Aleksandra Olekalns
    2011 - 2011 Principal Supervisor Identifying Barriers to Seeking Support for Women with Post-Natal Depression: A Qualitative Study of Mothers and Health Professionals. University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Clinical) Master Full Time Ms Stephanie De Garis
    2011 - 2011 External Supervisor Using a Socio-Ecological Framework to Enhance Understanding of Post-Natal Depression. University of South Australia Master of Psychology (Clinical) Master Full Time Ms Lisa Shetler
    2010 - 2010 External Supervisor Factors Associated with Young Women's Efforts to Prevent and Detect Cervical Cancer. University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) Honours Full Time Ms Emily Small
    2010 - 2010 External Supervisor Predicting Sun Exposure, Sun Protection and Tanning Behaviour Among Young Women. University of Adelaide Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) Honours Full Time Ms Ashley Day
    2009 - 2009 External Supervisor Equipping Children for Life: An Evaluation of the Optimistic Kids Resilience Program. University of South Australia Master of Psychology (6 year Program - Honours) Honours Full Time Ms Lisa Carlino
    2009 - 2009 External Supervisor Melanoma and Its Relationship with Solarium Use: Health Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviour of Young Women. University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Health) Master Full Time Ms Anna Boynton
    2009 - 2009 External Supervisor Identifying Psychological Distress Among Adult Cancer Patients: A Comparison of Screening Tools for Depression and Anxiety. University of Adelaide Master of Psychology (Clinical) Master Full Time Mr Noel Bekker
    2008 - 2008 External Supervisor Foster Carer Well-Being, Satisfaction and Intention to Continue Providing Out-Of-Home Care University of South Australia/Child Protection Services Master of Psychology (Clinical) Master Full Time Ms Rachel Whenan
    2008 - 2008 External Supervisor The Utility of Forensic Interviews for Children Aged 3 Years and Below Following Allegations of Child Abuse. University of South Australia/Child Protection Services Master of Psychology (Clinical) Master Full Time Ms Hala Abokamil
    2007 - 2010 External Supervisor The Relationship Between Work-Related Compassion Fatigue, Burnout, Compassion Satisfaction and the Parenting of Child Protection Workers University of South Australia/Child Protection Services Doctorate of Psychology Doctorate Part Time Ms Lydia Kovacev

  • Committee Memberships
    Date Role Committee Institution Country
    2022 - 2023 Treasurer Australian Psychological Society College of Health Psychologists National Committee Australian Psychological Society Australia
    2022 - 2022 Member Voluntary Assisted Dying Education and Training Working Group South Australian Government - SA Health Australia
    2022 - ongoing Treasurer Australian Psychological Society SA Branch College of Health Psychologists Australian Psychological Society Australia
    2020 - 2023 Member Australian Psychological Society College of Health Psychologists National Committee Australian Psychological Society Australia
    2020 - 2021 Member Deputy Chair - 2021 College of Health Psychology National Conference Australian Psychological Society College of Health Psychologists Australia
    2020 - 2021 Member Scientific Chair - 2021 College of Health Psychology National Conference Australian Psychological Society College of Health Psychologists Australia
    2019 - ongoing Member ANZICA Research Sub-Committee Australian and New Zealand Infertility Counsellors Association/Fertility Society of Australia Australia
    2017 - 2022 Secretary Australian Psychological Society SA Branch College of Health Psychologists Australian Psychological Society Australia

  • Memberships
    Date Role Membership Country
    2010 - ongoing Member Australian and New Zealand Infertility Counsellors Association Australia
    2010 - ongoing Member Fertility Society of Australia Australia
    2009 - ongoing Member Australian Society of Hypnosis Australia
    2007 - ongoing Member Australian Psychological Society College of Clinical Psychologists Australia
    2007 - ongoing Member Australian Psychological Society College of Health Psychologists Australia
    2006 - ongoing Member Australian Psychological Society Australia

  • Editorial Boards
    Date Role Editorial Board Name Institution Country
    2023 - ongoing Editor-In-chief Australian Psychologist Australian Psychologist - Australian Psychological Society Australia
    2022 - 2023 Associate Editor Australian Psychologist Australian Psychologist - Australian Psychological Society Australia
  • Position: Associate Professor / Reader
  • Phone: 83136411
  • Email: melissa.oxlad@adelaide.edu.au
  • Campus: North Terrace
  • Building: Hughes, floor 7
  • Org Unit: Psychology
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