Kyle MacDonald

It is with great respect and admiration that Kyle is honoured for his commitment and hard work for NZAP, most prominently for his initiatives and skill in the realm of public education through the media. 

Kyle joined NZAP in 2003 and became a Full Member in 2009. From the start he was actively involved. He represented NZAP on the ACC Sensitive Claims Advisory Group with energy and determination. He wrote a comprehensive and impressive submission for the first redesign of ACC processes and was part of the pressure group that resulted in the Disley Enquiry. He earned the respect of the Sensitive Claims staff by working alongside them rather than in opposition.

He was the Co-Convenor of the Northern Branch from 2010 to 2012 and is remembered for the information gained from his membership survey and for his part in creating the Maori Student Scholarship.

He was on the NZAP Council from 2013-2017 and was the first Full Member via Registration to serve on Council. His role in updating the IT and communications of NZAP (especially the website) was greatly valued. He is recognised and appreciated for his clarity of communication, patience and encouragement.

As the Public Issues spokesperson he fervently applied his interest and expertise in politics, news and social media to successfully promote psychotherapy. His public profile developed through his blog, his weekly spot on Radio Live from 2013 to 2015, co-hosting the Nutters Club (a mental health focused interview and talkback show on Newstalk ZB) from 2014 and his weekly column in the New Zealand Herald from 2016. He became highly effective at getting statements into the media, advocating for our clients, raising the profile of our profession and increasing the public’s understanding. He increased NZAP’s and the profession’s exposure in ways that have never before been achieved and which are enduring.

Recently, he played a big part in the People’s Mental Health Review which raised awareness of the crisis in the public mental health care in this country in the lead up to the 2017 election. Its’ four recommendations were accepted in full by the incoming Government, including the Independent Enquiry currently underway and a commitment to reinstate the Mental Health Commission.

Kyle, we thank you for your vision and efforts and acknowledge the significance of these achievements in the way that psychotherapy is now considered in the culture of Aotearoa.