Mental Health Physiotherapy

Mental health care in Australia has evolved significantly over the past 50 years, with holistic, person-centred care now at the forefront.

Physical activity and movement are increasingly recognised as vital components of wellbeing—and physiotherapists play a growing role in supporting mental health across diverse settings.

The Mental Health group connects physiotherapists who are working in, or passionate about, this emerging and important area of practice. 

Joining the group offers professional support, peer connection and opportunities to help shape how physiotherapy contributes to mental health care in Australia.

Members receive quarterly updates featuring research insights, professional reflections and news from across the country.

You'll also have access to a full calendar of lectures and professional development opportunities—offered at discounted rates and often developed in collaboration with other APA national groups.

Through PhysioHub, members can engage in ongoing discussions, share knowledge and connect with colleagues who are advancing physiotherapy in mental health.

APA national groups align with the specialist interest subgroups within the World Physiotherapy organisation.

About the group

The Mental Health group was established to strengthen recognition of physiotherapy's role in contemporary mental health care. Grounded in growing evidence on the benefits of movement and exercise for emotional wellbeing, the group promotes the integration of physiotherapy within multidisciplinary mental health services.

The APA is a proud member of the International Organization of Physical Therapists in Mental Health (IOPTMH), a subgroup of World Physiotherapy and shares its mission to highlight the global contribution of physiotherapists to mental health.

As one of the APA's newer groups, members have unique opportunities to shape the group's direction—whether through committee roles, research initiatives, advocacy projects or professional development planning.

Members can also connect through PhysioHub, where discussions, collaborations and shared resources help advance evidence-based practice and professional confidence in this emerging field.

Every two years, the APA conference scientific committee curates a dedicated mental health program, giving members another opportunity to influence and advance this area of physiotherapy.

Not yet a member? 

Join the APA today to access the Mental Health community on PhysioHub, exclusive professional development opportunities and a network of physiotherapists leading change in mental health care.