In Memory Of Dr. Stella Dalton

By Darren Hamburger

On late Friday 08/09/2017 I learn't that Psychiatrist Dr. Stella Dalton had recently passed away. Stella was the founder of Wayback which is a residential rehabilitation clinic for persons who are afflicted with addiction. In her time Stella pushed the boundaries in treating addictions by being the individual who had introduced Methadone into Australia as a treatment for opioid dependencies. Stella had also received the Order of Australia 'OA' medal for her tireless effort in treating addictions. Her advocacy for treating addictions saw her smash the typical gender debates of today, where back then to be a woman to forge her own strengths, independence and continue a professional path others would fear is the attribute Stella always brought with her to the table. At the end of the day, Stella just got on with the job and found a way to push ahead, instead of sitting around whingeing about gender inequalities.

I came to know Stella because she became one of my two supervisors during my psychologist internship. It was a great privilege to work closely with Stella for a period of 5 years at 'Wayback'. Stella was always available to talk to anyone who was interested to learn and openly shared her knowledge, which for a budding intern at the time was a perfect learning opportunity. Through the years of discussions with her in clinical meetings, during consultations with her clients and anytime I wished to ask any supervision question, Stella was always happy to educate.

I am forever thankful for the time Stella had provided me during my internship and eventually seen me reaching my goal in becoming a fully registered psychologist. I continued to work with Wayback and Stella a number of years after my full registration and she had happily supported my move into private practice. If it were not for her, I would not have as good understanding of addiction, treatment of addiction and psycho-pharmacotherapy. Her input in my internship years and while working at Wayback had prepared me very well to stand on my own two feet in private practice. Hand on heart, I can honestly say the education and knowledge Stella shared with me over the years absoluently no amount of money could ever pay for. It is with deepest regret that I did not know of her passing and was unable to attend the funeral. Stella will be sadly missed.

Until next time...

Darren Hamburger

Page Last update:09/09/2017

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