Dr Annie Cantwell-Bartl has dedicated her professional career as a nurse and psychologist to vulnerable members of our community. She has worked with people who are dying and their families, those whose family member is disabled, people who are or have been homeless, in jail, or living on the margins of society. The basis of her work involves being an empathic witness to others, bringing sincerity and truth to her supportive presence in the lives of so many.
Annie Cantwell completed Year 12 in 1971. Annie’s mother, Isla, was a boarder at Loreto Toorak in the 1930s and Annie spent both her early primary school years and secondary years at Loreto Toorak as well.
After school, Annie completed her nursing studies at St Vincent’s hospital. She is a registered psychologist with a Master’s of Counselling and is a trained psychotherapist. Annie has also completed studies in theology, pursuing a Master’s in Theology with a focus on Ignatian spirituality. She completed her PhD at the University of Melbourne, in the field of grief and loss.
Annie’s work as a therapist has taken place in the prison system, drug rehabilitation and supporting families and individuals who are experiencing traumatic grief, stress, illness and disability. She mentors other nurses and has led long-term psychotherapy groups to support those working in similar areas; with colleagues, Annie formed the Victorian Loss and Grief Practitioner’s group.
Annie has lectured on trauma and grief all round Australia and taught at the University of Melbourne and RMIT. Her work has been published in journals and several books, and she completes peer reviews for research in her areas of specialisation.
Annie has been a carer, supporter and advocate for her son, who was hit by a car at the age of six. He sustained a high-level quadriplegia which saw him paralysed from the neck downwards and requiring a mechanical device for his breathing. From her own lived experience, Annie has a desire to bring comfort to people who have been wounded in their living which requires a deep listening, a loving presence and a true sense of service.
