David Clark is an Emeritus Professor of Psychology who has worked in the addiction and mental health fields for over 35 years. He has an extensive knowledge and experience of biological, psychological and sociological aspects of addiction and mental health recovery. His work is based on the core values of authenticity, compassion, connection, courage, creativity, empathy and forgiveness.
David was initially a neuroscientist for 25 years, having trained with a Nobel Laureate (Prof Arvid Carlsson) and been the recipient of a number of awards for his research. His research on brain dopamine systems was widely cited and his laboratory, which he ran for 15 years, was a world leader in studying the role of dopamine in addiction.
In 2000, David decided that focusing on brain chemistry and using drug treatment was not the answer to helping people overcome addiction and mental health problems. He developed the grassroots initiative Wired In, which was hailed as visionary in its approach to empowering individuals, families and communities to overcome substance use problems. Since that time, David has been a writer, educator, researcher, website developer, film producer, recovery advocate and recovery coach.
As part of this initiative, David developed the web community Wired In To Recovery, which had 4,000 members and generated over 7,500 blogs before closing due to lack of funding. He also launched Recovery Stories (www.recoverystories.info), an environment where role models and their personal narratives can play an important role in helping people find recovery.
David moved from the UK to Perth at the end of 2008 and developed Sharing Culture (www.sharingculture.info) in late 2013. His primary aim over the coming years is to use a multi-platform approach (including documentary film and storytelling initiatives) to educate people about the healing of historical, or generational, trauma. He will work closely with filmmaker Michael Liu of Shocktreatmint Films.
David believes in the innate ability of people to self-heal, a process facilitated by empowerment and connection. Empowerment comes from giving people hope, understanding and a sense of belonging. David also emphasizes the importance of creating healing-supportive environments that build on the strengths and resilience of people. He considers Stories to be a powerful tool for healing.
