In this episode of Lymphoedema Insights, Maree speaks with neuroscientist Dr Izelle Labuschagne to explore how the brain shapes patient engagement and clinical outcomes. Drawing on her background in psychology and clinical neuroscience, Izelle explains how stress, emotional load, attention, and mental health can influence how patients process information, make decisions, and respond to treatment. Together, they unpack why engagement is about far more than motivation or compliance. The conversation offers practical insights to help clinicians recognise when neurological and emotional factors may be affecting a patient’s ability to absorb information or follow through with care. If you’ve ever wondered why some patients struggle to engage despite your best efforts, this episode provides a fascinating neuroscience perspective and practical strategies to support more meaningful and effective clinical interactions. About our guest speaker: Dr Izelle Labuschagne – Neuroscientist | Research Mentor | Founder, Complete Thesis Support Dr Izelle Labuschagne completed her PhD in clinical neuroscience at Monash University in 2011 and holds accredited training in psychology from Monash University and Swinburne University of Technology. Her work is grounded in neuroscience, with a particular focus on social cognition and emotion, and how mental health, stress, and ageing influence brain–behaviour relationships. Through Complete Thesis Support, she now works closely with PhD candidates, research students, and early-career researchers, supporting them to navigate the demands of research with clarity, confidence, and sustainability. Izelle has extensive experience leading human neuroscience and neuropsychopharmacology research, including randomised double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trials involving antidepressants, serotonergic agents, and neuropeptides such as oxytocin. She has worked across academic and industry-sponsored research, with strong expertise in ethics, regulatory processes, and Good Clinical Practice. Today, she integrates this scientific rigour into her mentoring and entrepreneurial work, supporting researchers in navigating complex systems, producing high-quality research, and building sustainable academic or industry careers. Sponsor This episode is proudly sponsored by Medi Australia, a global leader in compression therapy and a trusted partner to lymphoedema clinicians Medi understands that effective lymphoedema care relies on evidence-based compression, patient comfort, and long-term adherence. Their German-engineered flat-knit and circular-knit garments provide effective compression, durability, and wearability, supporting outcomes across early intervention through to chronic, complex presentations. Medi backs clinicians with education, product support, and responsive customer service, helping improve patient solutions. Through clinical rigour and innovation, Medi continues to improve quality of life for people living with lymphoedema. For more information, go to mediaustralia.com.au Stay connected with Lymphoedema Education Solutions (LES) LES offers a diverse range of professional learning opportunities – including online self-paced courses, face-to-face workshops, and accredited training modules – to help you build confidence in your lymphoedema management skills. 🌐 Visit the LES website to explore upcoming course dates and learn more: https://lymphoedemaedu.com/ 👉 Subscribe to the LES monthly newsletter for updates, resources, and course announcements: https://lymphoedemaeducation.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=21477ad0021cc388b9c1d508b&id=65df668025
