04/16/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/16/2026 00:00
Cat will complete the Graduate Certificate of Mental Health and Neuroscience program this year and she's delivering lifechanging talks to veterinary professionals around the world, including one based on the white paper she worked on during her studies about suicide in the industry.
It was Cat's best friend, a senior neuroscientist with Thompson Institute - where the master's program is delivered - who encouraged her to enrol in and complete the degree.
"After my friend told me UniSC was offering government-subsidised positions in the postgraduate program, I enrolled immediately," Cat said.
"They tell you straight away it's about translational science.
"Being able to go back to your own profession and translate the content and make it relevant for whatever field you work in."Cat now works full time in mediation and conflict management for veterinary clinics while also delivering presentations for international vet conferences, on the topic of mental health in the industry.
She offers support and acknowledges upfront the darkness that comes with this career.
It's a support that is gratefully received by fellow vet practitioners, with many approaching Cat after her presentations to express the gratitude for attention in this area.
One special moment during an early talk on suicide stands out for Cat.
"He looked exhausted and broken but he waited for everyone to leave, came up to me and quietly said 'thank you so much'," she said.