About

Hello, I’m David Younger and I’m a Melbourne-based clinical psychologist and national disaster consultant. I’d like to share some of my journey with you to help paint a picture of how I got to where I am today.

Back in 2004 I faced some really big challenges. These events shook me to the core and were a catalyst to evaluating my life’s direction and purpose. After some deep soul searching, I discovered a more authentic version of myself and made the decision to commit to a life of helping others achieve lasting change. I completed my training as a psychologist with the aim of supporting rural communities, and within a few years I found myself working with some lovely country folk.

The next demanding period came in 2009, when the Black Saturday bushfires devasted much of Victoria. At the time I was living and working close to some of the affected areas and naturally began supporting survivors in my psychology practice. Because it was such a large-scale disaster, the fires also took a toll on many of the health professionals assisting the broader community. Recognising a need, I helped create a peer support group for these professionals.

Nowadays, I’m an endorsed clinical psychologist with over 15 years’ experience partnering with Australian organisations and communities. I’ve been a trusted advisor after numerous events including bushfires, floods, droughts, cyclones, thunderstorm asthma, and the pandemic. I am an Honorary Fellow (Clinical) at Melbourne University and am a member of the Children and Disasters Advisory Committee. I’m also an advising panel member for the Victorian State Government’s (DFFH) Psychosocial Reference Group.

My approach is one of calm, warmth, compassion, and curiosity and my vision is for a future Australia where organisations and communities are better prepared and able to recover from disasters and emergencies.