February 21, 2025#WeAreNorthern
Today we chat to someone keen to make a positive impact on our consumers lives, however small. Meet Joby Philip, Manager of the Addiction Psychiatry and Toxicology team (APT), and Project Manager Alcohol and Other Drugs, (AOD) Mental Health Division.
Q: Firstly, your coffee order please, Joby?
A: I love a medium skinny flat white with no sugar- it’s a must in the morning!
Q: What does your role as Manager APT and Project Manager (AOD) entail?
A: As programme manager of Addiction Psychiatry and Toxicology team (APT), I provide leadership in the operational management of APT to deliver evidenced based quality integrated assessment, treatment and support for individuals presenting with co-occurring mental/ physical health and substance use disorders.
The project management part of the role works in partnership with the Mental Health Executive to develop and lead the implementation of AOD model of care across all mental health division programmes. In practice, this involves partnering with Northern Health leadership and external stakeholders in service development, develop policies, procedures and systems required to safely provide integrated care.
Q: Your role sounds very challenging – what satisfaction does it give you?
A: Substance use disorder is a very common health condition but the stigma and marginalisation our consumers face can make it tough for them to get the support they really need. That’s why, leading a service that not only supports our consumers but also listens to and helps their carers and family members, gives me such a strong sense of purpose.
It’s all about teaming up with colleagues and other services to tackle these issues together. Making a positive impact on someone’s life, however small, is what keeps me going!
Q: What are your plans for 2025?
A: As APT marks one year this month, we are committed to further strengthening our service delivery to enhance care for our consumers. Our focus areas for the year includes:
- Capacity building of our staff in harm reduction approaches
- Actively contributing to policy and procedure reviews to strengthen AOD-integrated care within our services.
- Strengthening partnerships across health services to ensure continuity of care for consumers.
- Promoting our newly launched specialist outpatient clinic to hospital treating teams, mental health services, and other key stakeholders.
By focusing on these key areas, APT aims to build a more responsive, well-integrated service in 2025.
Q: What are the best things about working at Northern Health?
A: I love the collaboration with passionate colleagues who share a commitment to make a real difference to the lives of people. Other rewards include the convenience of working locally, reducing travel time and maintaining a better work-life balance.
Q: How do you unwind after a day’s work?
A: I love spending time outdoors in the garden, taking care of my plants and just enjoying the fresh air. There’s something so relaxing about tending to both my outdoor garden and indoor plants—it’s my little escape!
I also love cycling with the kids whenever we get the chance. It’s such a fun way to stay active and spend quality time together. Nothing beats just unwinding with family, whether it’s a simple meal, a good chat, or just being together. It’s the perfect way to end the day!
Q: What is something not many people know about you?
A: Hiking brings me so much peace—each hike feels like an adventure, and I genuinely enjoy the sense of achievement that comes with it. There’s nothing quite like being surrounded by towering trees, breathtaking landscapes, and the crisp, fresh air of the hills.
Featured image shows Joby hiking in The Western Ghats of Kerala, South India.
