Christmas 2021 marked the end of a significant era – a new Medical Director was appointed at Ashburn Clinic. Dr Megan Bryan (MBChB FRANZCP) took over from Dr Brett Ferguson (MBChB FRANZCP) in December.

Dr Ferguson started work at Ashburn Clinic as a psychiatric registrar in 2000 and was appointed Medical Director in 2009 as a Consultant Psychiatrist. Throughout his time at Ashburn, he has remained committed to promoting the Therapeutic Community principles which underpin Ashburn Clinic’s approach to treatment. Brett says, “I am pleased to be leaving at a time when Ashburn is on a good, solid footing, and continuing to establish itself as a very important and unique service within New Zealand’s mental health system.”

Dr Megan Bryan is the 15th hospital manager in Ashburn’s 139-year history, and the second female medical director. Dr Bryan has many years of relevant experience and knowledge as a Consultant Psychiatrist. Dr Bryan completed her Fellowship in General Practice prior to switching to studying psychiatry in 1997. She did the majority of her psychiatry training at the Southern District Health Board before joining the team at Ashburn Clinic. At Ashburn Clinic she had the opportunity to study psychotherapy and completed the Royal Australia and New Zealand Advanced Certificate in Psychotherapy. She is looking forward to taking up her new position as she is passionate regarding the treatment opportunities that Ashburn provides.