The female leadership team bridging gaps in mental health accessibility
Sarah Richardson
CEO, HealthBright
Mental health care in Australia is at a turning point. For too long, access to quality support has been dictated by geography, affordability, and navigated around stigma. I have seen this firsthand.
As CEO of HealthBright, I’ve witnessed the struggles faced by individuals and families in rural and under-served areas who simply can’t access the mental health care they need. That’s why my team and I are committed to breaking down barriers and redefining how Australians receive support through tele-mental-health. We didn’t set out to lead a revolution in mental health care, but we couldn’t ignore the gaps in the system.
With over two decades in digital health, I’ve worked on everything from struggling telehealth ventures to large-scale medical centres. What became clear to me is that mental health support isn’t just a service – it’s a right. And yet, so many Australians are left without it. That’s why organisations like HealthBright are so important in making high-quality, affordable mental health support available to everyone – no matter where they live.
But the road to leadership, especially as a woman in this sector, hasn’t always been easy. The healthcare and tech industries are still male-dominated, and female leaders often face greater scrutiny, fewer opportunities and higher expectations.
I’ve learnt that persistence, expertise and a strong network of support are essential. I’m fortunate to work alongside two other remarkable women – Dr Michelle Olaithe and Bruna Chan – who share this vision and bring their own expertise to drive real change.
“ Mental health support isn’t just a service – it’s a right. And yet, so many Australians are left without it.
Bringing clinical excellence to telehealth
Of course, accessibility is only part of the equation. Quality of care matters just as much. That’s where our Clinical Director Dr Michelle Olaithe comes in. A clinical psychologist, researcher and educator, Michelle makes sure that every service we provide is not just accessible, but also evidence-based and effective. Her work is critical in ensuring digital mental health isn’t just convenient, but transformative as well. She understands that mental health care must be built on research, not just good intentions.
Sustaining the future of mental health innovation
Behind every successful healthcare initiative is a strong financial foundation. Bruna Chan, our Head of Finance, ensures HealthBright has the resources to grow sustainably. With experience across four continents in financial strategy and medical operations, she helps us scale our mission, making sure financial barriers never stand in the way of those who need help. Without her expertise, we wouldn’t be able to expand our reach and continue innovating in tele-mental-health.
Like many women in leadership, Bruna and Michelle have had to work harder to be heard, to be seen, and to lead. It’s no secret that women in executive roles are still under-represented; but we know that diverse leadership brings stronger, more sustainable solutions. Our presence at the helm of HealthBright is not just symbolic – it’s a testament to what’s possible when women are given the space to lead and drive change.
The future of mental health care
I believe we are at the beginning of a major shift in how Australians think about and access mental health care. No one should be left behind due to distance, finances or stigma. The mental health crisis in Australia is urgent, but I am hopeful. With leaders like Michelle and Bruna by my side, and a commitment to breaking down barriers, we are proving that mental health care can be both innovative and deeply personal.
The road to leadership has been challenging, but representation matters. The next generation of female leaders in healthcare and technology shouldn’t just hope for change, they should expect it. And we’re proud to help make it happen.