September 3, 2019
Media Release
Sexual abuse prevention research wins psychological society award
University of Auckland psychologist, Dr Gwenda Willis, is this year’s recipient of the Hunter Award from the New Zealand
Psychological Society (NZPsS).
Dr Willis was presented with her award at the recent NZPsS Annual Conference in Rotorua in recognition of her impressive
body of research in the fields of forensic/correctional psychology and sexual abuse prevention.
The Society noted her published work and innovations in clinical practice have gained her international recognition
among those working on the treatment of sexual abuse and that the International Association for the Treatment of Sexual
Abuse (ATSA) made her a Fellow of the Association in 2018.
Dr Willis has conducted research into the treatment of those who have sexually abused, and her work has made an
important contribution to their effective reintegration in society.
Other 2019 award recipients were: Dr Waikaremoana Waitoki (the Ballin Award); Val Bridge (Dame Marie Clay Award); Dr
Matthew Hammond (Early Career Goddard Award Research and Scholarship; and Caitlin Helme (NZPsS Postgraduate Student
Social Justice Research Scholarship).
Waikato University clinical psychologist, Dr Waitoki, has made significant contributions to the development of
culturally safe, effective theory and practice in clinical psychology achieved through the advancement of indigenous
psychologies here and overseas.
Her published research draws on tikanga and mātauranga Māori to better understand and improve Māori people’s experiences
in and of psychology.
Educational psychologist, Val Bridge, has specialised in work with students with a mental disability or other complex
needs. The Society believes she has been an exemplary practitioner, mentor and leader in the profession of educational
psychology within Aotearoa New Zealand for more than 30 years.
Wellington Victoria University’s Dr Matthew Hammond’s research focuses on the area of relationships and sexism. His
research involves sophisticated methodological and analytic tools that are employed in pushing the bounds of
contemporary social science research in important areas. In making this award, the Society recognises that Dr Hammond
has achieved and displayed excellence in his early career research and scholarship.
Caitlin Helme’s Doctoral research at Massey University addresses the important issue of sexual violence and access to
services for people in the disability community. The particular needs of people with disabilities when attempting to
access services following experiences of sexual violence are often overlooked in both research and service provision.
This research will provide an important and original contribution to the development of our understanding of sexual
violence, along with access to appropriate treatments and services in New Zealand.
ends