An Interview with Pierre Samaan, Ph.D.

by Gordon Nary

Gordon: What is one of your earliest childhood memories?

Dr. Pierre: It’s fascinating how some memories linger, demanding attention. For years, one early childhood memory would resurface, and each time it did, I found myself steeped in self-criticism. The memory itself was vivid and unsettling. I must have been between two and three years old. My parents had immigrated to the United States in 1950 when I was just a year old. They began constructing the Tahiti Motel in Daytona Beach, Florida. Since the motel took two years to complete, I could pinpoint my age to around two or three years old. At that time, we hadn’t moved into the motel yet.

In my memory, I am standing in a playpen, screaming inconsolably. My parents, dressed to the nines for a social outing at a nearby club, were preparing to leave. A babysitter had been arranged to watch over me, but I was desperate for them not to go.

In the following years, whenever this memory resurfaced, it carried a flood of self-reproach. My first reaction was to label myself as spoiled and selfish. Why else would I have been so frantic about their departure?

Years later, I asked God for clarity regarding this persistent memory during prayer. As a visual learner, I often pray in images, allowing the scenes in my mind to unfold like a video. In this instance, as I revisited the memory, Jesus appeared within it.

He entered the room, walked over to the playpen, and lifted me into His arms as I wept. With a gentle voice, He asked, “Why are you crying?”

Through my tears, I expressed my confusion. “They’re leaving me, and I don’t understand why it hurts so much,” I said.

He smiled softly, His eyes filled with understanding. “Let me show you something,” He said.

Suddenly, the scene shifted, and I could see flashes of our previous living arrangements — two other places we had lived before moving to the motel. “You’ve moved around a lot,” He explained. “Children don’t like change. It’s unsettling, and it can feel scary.”

As He held me securely in one arm, He extended His other arm and pointed to the windows and the door. “Look,” He said.

I followed His gesture and saw angels stationed at each window and the door. “These are your angels,” He said. “They are always with you. You are never alone. They will tell Me what you need and keep Me informed. So, there is no reason to be afraid anymore.”

From that day forward, the memory never haunted me again. The fear, the self-criticism — it all vanished in the light of His comforting words. Whenever I think back to that scene, I am reminded that I am never alone.

This has been especially reassuring to me since Linda, my wife of 50 years, has passed on into her Heavenly citizenship.

Gordon: You have attended several universities and a seminary. Please list them, the degrees earned, and titles

Dr. Pierre: EDUCATION

Ph.D. Clinical Pastoral Counseling, Evangelical Theological Seminary / Biblical Life College & Seminary

MA Christian Clinical Counseling, Cornerstone University, Lake Charles, LA

MA Theology, ZOE University, Jacksonville, FL

BA Psychology, Stetson University, DeLand, FL

Addiction Studies – NET Training Institute (State Certified Professional Addictions Curriculum), Orlando, FL (netinstitute.org)

Power & Control Tactics of Men Who Batter Training Program – Duluth Model of Domestic Abuse and Intervention Program & Anger Management, Duluth, MN (theduluthmodel.org)

Board Certified Pastoral Counselor, Certified by The Board of Examiners for Georgia Christian Counselors & Therapists — Certificate #07173819; Valid through 6/30/2019

Nationally Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor (Advanced Certification), licensed by the National Board of Examiners of the National Christian Counselors Association (NCCA License # 7347717)* (ncca.org)

Nationally Licensed Temperament Counselor, licensed by the National Board of Examiners of the N.C.C.A. (NCCA License #05187545)*

N.C.C.A. Clinical Supervisor

Diplomate – The National Board of Christian Clinical Therapists #47017 (ncca.org)

Ordained Pastoral Care Specialist, Church of God - Anderson, Ind. (cog.org)

Senior Chaplain, International Fellowship of Chaplains (ifoc.org)

BOARD CERTIFIED*

Marriage Therapy; Family Therapy; Sexual & Sex Abuse Therapy; Crisis & Abuse Therapy; Adolescent Therapy; Substance Abuse & Addiction Therapy; Clinical Pastoral Counseling; Pastoral Counselor

*Board Certifications are issued by the National Board of Examiners of the National Christian Counselors Association, the Board of Examiners for Georgia Christian Counselors & Therapists, and the International Fellowship of Chaplains.

Gordon: Tell us about your studies and certification at NET Training Institute.

Dr. Pierre: After leaving my position as a Psychiatric Counselor at Humana Hospital's psychiatric unit to establish my first Christian counseling office, I began receiving numerous referrals from local churches regarding substance and behavioral addictions. Recognizing the need to deepen my expertise in addiction treatment, I pursued specialized training in the field.

I completed the comprehensive coursework required by the State of Florida to become a Certified Addictions Professional (CAP). My commitment to professional development led me to join the NET Training Institute (NTI), where I served as an Instructor and an Advisory Board Member. NTI is a State of Florida Department of Education-licensed Non-Public Career Education school and a single-source provider for the State of Florida Professional Addictions Certification.

Under the leadership of Dr. Jean LaCoure, NTI Director and UN Advisory Member, the institute expanded its influence internationally, assisting countries in developing effective treatment and educational programs for substance abuse recovery.

During my tenure at NTI, I taught several key courses, including Dual Diagnosis: Disorders & Treatment, Pharmacology of Addictions, Counseling Theories & Treatment Planning, and Sexual Relations & Addiction. These courses were part of the State Certified curriculum for the Certification Board of Addictions Professionals (SS #12, State of Florida), further solidifying my expertise in addiction counseling and recovery. Dr. Jean LaCoure, NTI's Director, was the primary contact person during my instructional period.

Gordon: When did you serve as an Addictions Instructor at The Net Training Institute, and what did you find most rewarding about your work?

Dr. Pierre: During the 1990s, I served as an Addictions Instructor with the NET Training Institute, where I had the privilege of teaching adult students pursuing their Certified Addiction Professional (CAP) certification. Many of these students were in recovery, channeling their experiences into a commitment to assist others in their journey toward healing and restoration. At that time, individuals with a history of addiction recovery were required to maintain a minimum of three years of sobriety before enrolling in the program.

Each class was more than an educational experience — it was a tapestry woven with the powerful, raw, and often heart-wrenching stories of those who had overcome addiction. Some narratives were compelling and inspiring, while others were profoundly moving, leaving a lasting impact on everyone in the room. The classroom became a space where education merged with personal testimony, transforming the learning experience into a rich, many-sided exchange of wisdom, resilience, and hope.

Gordon:  When did you serve as Psychiatric Assistant to Edward Rossario, M.D. and what were your primary responsibilities?

Dr. Pierre: During my tenure as a psychiatric counselor at Humana Hospital, I had the privilege of working alongside Dr. Edward Rossario, M.D., PA, FACFM, FACFE (Ret.), who was then serving as Chairman of the Psychiatric Department at Halifax Medical Center in Daytona Beach. As I treated many of his admitted patients, we developed a professional rapport after I opened my Christian Counseling practice.

Subsequently, I joined Dr. Rossario’s practice part-time as a Psychiatric Assistant, where I contributed to writing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and provided care for his patients during his absences. Additionally, I expressed interest in assisting during his Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) procedures, seeking to deepen my understanding of its neurological implications and to offer post-treatment counseling to patients.

This experience enriched my clinical skills and further solidified my commitment to integrating psychiatric care with compassionate, faith-based counseling.

Gordon: Where do you currently serve as a chaplain and what has been one of your most memorable person that you helped?

Dr. Pierre: After establishing my Christian counseling practice, I pursued and achieved credentialing as a Senior Chaplain through the International Fellowship of Chaplains. This role opened the door to serving as a volunteer police chaplain with the Daytona Beach Police Department under the leadership of Police Captain Larry Edwards. Our responsibilities as volunteer chaplains varied, particularly during evenings and weekends when the city’s population surged due to its status as a prominent resort destination. The influx of visitors during summer, holidays, and major events like stock car and motorcycle races significantly increased the demand for our presence.

Spring break was particularly intense, with law enforcement turning to chaplains for crowd control. Officers observed that students tended to respond more calmly and cooperatively to chaplains, making us valuable assets during these high-pressure periods. We were frequently summoned to assist in managing crowds and addressing personal concerns during police raids. Additionally, I often patrolled alongside officers during their nightly duties, offering support in various ways.

One recurring responsibility was assisting on the Boardwalk, where I helped officers identify runaways and secure temporary shelter until arrangements could be made to reunite them with their families. The role extended beyond crisis intervention. As a Chaplain and Clinical Christian Counselor, I also had the opportunity to provide confidential counseling to officers who, seeking anonymity, preferred to receive guidance outside their department’s employee assistance program. This dual capacity allowed me to minister to those who carried the heavy burdens of law enforcement while remaining a trusted and impartial resource for emotional and spiritual support.

Gordon: You currently are a Clinical Pastoral Counselor at New Horizons Institute of Counseling at  New Horizons Institute of Counseling. Please provide an overview of your work there.

Dr. Pierre: As a Christian counseling ministry affiliated with the United Brethren in Christ Church, we provide faith-based counseling. With over 30 years of experience, we offer Christ-centered counseling services to individuals, couples, and families facing emotional, relational, and spiritual challenges. Located in Suwanee, GA, the institute also provides international counseling via phone and video.

Services include individual, marriage, and family counseling, substance abuse recovery, and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM). The mission is to promote healing and restoration through faith-based guidance, replacing pain with peace.

Operating as a domestic mission, New Horizons Institute of Counseling collaborates with church pastors, physicians, and institutions to extend Christ-centered recovery solutions to those in need.

Gordon: According to the American Psychological Association, more than 20% of teens have seriously considered suicide. What are the factors that contribute to suicidal ideation, and what symptoms should parents consider to referring their child and  teens for mental health assistance?

Dr. Pierre: This alarming statistic underscores the critical importance of understanding the factors that contribute to suicidal ideation and recognizing the warning signs that may indicate a need for immediate intervention. Suicide is now the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10 to 24 years (CDC, 2022). Therefore, identifying at-risk adolescents and implementing timely mental health referrals is vital for prevention.

Factors contributing to suicidal ideation are many: psychiatric disorders, substance abuse, social isolation and loneliness, bullying and cyberbullying, family dysfunction, trauma and abuse, academic stress and perfectionism, exposure to suicidal behavior, and stigma of mental health.

Symptoms indicative of suicidal ideation in adolescents can be easily seen or masked. Parents should be vigilant in observing changes in behavior that may indicate suicidal ideation. Key symptoms include: expressing feelings of hopelessness, withdrawal from social activities, changes in sleeping and eating patterns, increased risk-taking behavior, giving away possessions, intense mood swings, and preoccupation with death.

The Bible provides a compassionate perspective on despair and encourages reaching out for help in times of distress: Psalm 34:18: "The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Jeremiah 29:11: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4: "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles.” and Psalm 147:3: "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” This is naming only a few Bible Scriptures.

To parents, I always recommend open communication with non-judgmental discussions about emotions, stress, and mental health; professional help if suicidal ideation is suspected, by seeking immediate intervention; spiritual support by integrating faith-based counseling and prayer as part of a comprehensive intervention strategy; and seek resources that provide access to suicide hotlines and crisis centers, ensuring the adolescent knows where to seek immediate assistance.

Here are suicide help resources I will give out: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, 24/7 | Call or text 988 — Suicide Prevention: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org, 24/7 | (800) 273-8255 | In USA, Spanish Language 1-888-628-9454 (toll-free) — National Helpline for Treatment Referral & Information, 24/7 | (800) 662-HELP (4357)

Gordon: What are the most common mental health challenges in the United States and the symptoms of each challenge?

Dr. Pierre: Mental health challenges are prevalent in the United States, affecting millions of individuals annually. Understanding these conditions and their symptoms is essential for effective intervention and support.

I would start with anxiety as being one of the most prevalent. Anxiety symptoms include excessive worry, restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances.

Depression is also at the top of the list. Depressive symptoms include persistent sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, feelings of worthlessness, difficulty concentrating, and suicidal ideation.

Bipolar Disorder is frequent in the population. Bipolar symptoms are manic episodes characterized by elevated mood, increased energy, decreased need for sleep, and impulsive behavior; feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and fatigue characterize depressive episodes. Duration of bipolar episodes can be hours to months at a time.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can be overly diagnosed due to stress episodes. However, PTSD is real and frequent, with symptoms that include recurrent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions), repetitive behaviors (compulsions), distress due to inability to control these thoughts and actions.

I am seeing a significant increase in Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ADHD symptoms are inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, difficulty organizing tasks, and forgetfulness. ADHD inattentive type does not display hyperactivity.

Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) are ever-present, especially with the legalization of cannabis in many states. SUD symptoms include uncontrollable cravings, inability to control use, withdrawal symptoms, neglect of responsibilities, and relationship problems.

I don’t want to leave out Schizophrenia, although I see less of it on an outpatient basis. The symptoms of Schizophrenia are hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, lack of motivation, emotional flatness, and cognitive difficulties.

I saved Autism (ASD) for the finale because I believe something or someone is behind the significant increase. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) prevalence rates in the United States have undergone substantial changes over the past century. In the early 1970s, estimates indicated that approximately 1 in 2,000 children were diagnosed with autism. By 2022, this figure had risen to about 1 in 31 children aged 8 years, according to the CDC's Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network (AZAunited, 2023).[1]

Symptoms of ASD include difficulty with social interaction, repetitive behaviors, restricted interests, sensory sensitivities, and challenges with communication. While the Bible does not explicitly mention autism, it emphasizes the value and purpose of every individual. Psalm 139:14 states, "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." This verse underscores the belief that each person is created intentionally and with inherent worth, encouraging compassion and support for individuals with ASD.

Gordon: Please comment on the new WHO guidance for urgent transformation of mental health policies.

Dr. Pierre: The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued new guidance advocating for an urgent transformation of global mental health policies. This comprehensive framework allegedly emphasizes a shift from traditional, institutional models to community-based, rights-oriented approaches. The guidance identifies five critical areas for reform: leadership and governance, service organization, workforce development, person-centered interventions, and addressing social and structural determinants of mental health (World Health Organization, 2025).[2]

One of the profound benefits of advancing age is the capacity to reflect deeply on past experiences—both positive and negative—and extract valuable knowledge, understanding, insight, and wisdom. This reflective process is amplified by the proliferation of the digital age, granting us unprecedented access to information and diverse perspectives. In counseling, this approach teaches us to discern beyond the surface of words and actions, probing into the heart to uncover underlying motives and intentions. This depth of understanding becomes the foundation for constructing effective treatment plans to foster growth and healing.

The innocence of youth gradually gives way to the clarity of life experience, allowing us to perceive people and organizations through the discerning lens of truth. We become more attuned to the dissonance between appearances and underlying agendas. Leaders and institutions may project a facade of benevolence, yet closer scrutiny often reveals self-serving motives masked as altruism.

Similarly, the World Health Organization (WHO) is a global advocate for health and well-being. However, a deeper examination may reveal a pattern of power consolidation and control, aligning with broader globalist objectives. Much like a counselor examining a client’s history to identify hidden narratives and patterns, we must critically assess what powerful entities say and do, recognizing that their true intentions may be obscured beneath a veneer of public service.

The World Health Organization's (WHO) recent guidance on transforming mental health policies has sparked critical discussions about potential underlying motives. While the stated goals emphasize accessibility, human rights, and community-based care, several scholars and practitioners have raised concerns about possible ulterior agendas.

1. Standardization and Cultural Homogenization

Critics argue that global mental health initiatives often promote Western-centric models, potentially marginalizing indigenous practices and local understandings of mental well-being. This approach may inadvertently suppress diverse cultural expressions of mental health.

“Critics suggest that GMH is colonial medicine come full circle, involving the top-down imposition of Western psychiatric models and solutions by Western-educated elites.” (Bavetti et al., 2023)[3]

2. Pharmaceutical Industry Influence

There is concern that the expansion of mental health services globally could benefit pharmaceutical companies disproportionately, especially if treatment models prioritize medication over holistic approaches. Financial ties between industry and policy-making bodies may influence the direction of mental health strategies.

“Around 69% of psychiatrists involved in the development of the DSM-5 were reported to have financial ties to the pharmaceutical industry.” (Cosgrove and Wheeler, 2013)[4]

3. Surveillance and Control Mechanisms

Integrating mental health into broader public health frameworks may increase surveillance and data collection, raising privacy concerns. The potential to misuse personal health information for non-therapeutic purposes is a significant ethical issue.

“The IHR amendments will expand the situations that constitute a public health emergency, grant the WHO additional emergency powers and extend state duties to build 'core capacities' of surveillance.”[5] 

4. Economic and Political Leverage

The WHO may inadvertently exert economic and political pressure on nations to conform by setting global standards and guidelines, potentially affecting national sovereignty in health policy decisions. This dynamic can influence domestic priorities and resource allocation.

“The changes will likely lock in the seamless rule of the technocratic-managerial elite at both national and international levels.” (Thakur, R., 2024)[6]

5. Biblical Perspective

From a Christian standpoint, it's essential to approach mental health with compassion and discernment, ensuring that care models align with spiritual values and respect individual dignity.

Romans 12:2 (NIV): “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

Colossians 2:8 (NIV): “See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.”

While the WHO's initiatives aim to address global mental health challenges, it's crucial to remain vigilant about the potential for cultural insensitivity, commercial exploitation, and infringement on personal freedoms. It is imperative to engage with these policies critically and ensure they align with ethical and spiritual principles.

Bible Scripture consistently calls us to care for the marginalized and to seek holistic well-being for all people:

Isaiah 1:17 (NIV): “Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause.”

Micah 6:8 (NIV): “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”

Matthew 25:40 (NIV): “Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.”

Integrating the Bible’s timeless principles with contemporary mental health practices presents a vital opportunity to advocate for a compassionate, faith-informed approach to care. Rather than repeating past mistakes, we can encourage a more just and comprehensive mental health system that genuinely honors the dignity and worth of every individual, especially the most vulnerable among us.

Gordon: What are the most common mental health challenges in the homeless and how are the best addressed?

Dr. Pierre: Homelessness and mental health are deeply intertwined, with each exacerbating the other. Individuals experiencing homelessness often face significant mental health challenges, which can both contribute to and result from their housing instability.

Conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are more common among the homeless than in the general population. Research shows that 12.4% of homeless individuals experience schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and 12.6% suffer from major depression. These illnesses can impair judgment, reduce the ability to maintain employment, and hinder access to services. A study found that 53.7% of homeless individuals experience mental health problems, with 42.6% facing both mental health and substance use issues. Many homeless individuals have histories of trauma, including physical or sexual abuse, which can lead to PTSD. The constant exposure to violence and instability on the streets further exacerbates these conditions.

Practical strategies for addressing mental health challenges must include the Housing First model, which prioritizes providing permanent housing to homeless individuals without preconditions such as sobriety or participation in treatment programs. This approach has been shown to improve housing stability and reduce psychiatric symptoms. Integrative treatment programs would be the next priority. These programs combine mental health and substance use treatment services, which can effectively address co-occurring disorders. Integrated programs that offer comprehensive care tailored to individual needs have successfully improved outcomes for homeless individuals. Trauma-informed care will be essential. Recognizing the impact of trauma on mental health is crucial. Trauma-informed care involves creating a safe and supportive environment that acknowledges past traumas and avoids re-traumatization.

An army of volunteers through peer support services will be essential. This may include individuals with lived experience of homelessness and mental illness in support roles, who can foster trust and engagement. Peer support services have been effective in promoting recovery and reducing feelings of isolation. This would also be an avenue for employment of the most vulnerable among us, as I spoke of regarding the WHO's plans for global mental health policies. Access to healthcare services will have to be stepped up. Improving access to healthcare, including mental health services, is essential. Mobile clinics, outreach programs, and simplified enrollment processes can help bridge the gap for homeless individuals.

Bible Scripture emphasizes compassion and care for the marginalized. These passages call for active involvement in addressing the needs of those experiencing homelessness and mental illness, reflecting God's love through tangible acts of service.

Proverbs 31:8-9 (NIV): "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy."

Isaiah 58:6-7 (NIV): "Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice... Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter..."

Matthew 25:35-40 (NIV): "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink... Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."

Gordon: Please provide an overview of your book Unmasking Addiction!: Exploring the Depths of Obsessions and Passions: A Holistic Approach to Understanding and Healing!

Dr. Pierre: In my book Unmasking Addiction!: Exploring the Depths of Obsessions and Passions, I integrate over 30 years of counseling expertise, combining Christian theology with psychological insights to address addiction holistically.

Core Themes and Structure

1. Spiritual Origins of Addiction:

   1. Addiction often stems from spiritual voids. Dr. Samaan emphasizes that true fulfillment comes from a relationship with God, aligning with John 4:13-14 (NIV) — "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst."

2. Behavioral Origins:

   1. Traumatic experiences can establish coping mechanisms that fuel addictive behaviors. Faith-based practices are presented as tools for reshaping these patterns.

3. Addictive Personality:

   1. Traits like impulsivity and escapism may predispose individuals to addiction. Recognizing these traits enables tailored recovery strategies.

4. Drugs and the Brain:

   1. The book explores how addiction alters brain chemistry, underscoring the need for both spiritual and physical healing.

5. Recovery:

   1. Recovery involves spiritual renewal, behavioral transformation, and community support, reflecting the principle of Galatians 6:2 (NIV): "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ."

6. Relapse:

   1. Relapse is reframed as an opportunity for deeper growth rather than failure, encouraging perseverance through faith and accountability.

   
   

Integration of Faith and Psychology

I emphasize the transformative power of faith in recovery, aligning psychological principles with biblical teachings, as seen in Romans 1 "Be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

Practical Applications

Each chapter includes reflective questions and actionable steps for individuals, families, and counselors, reinforcing the holistic approach to addiction recovery.

Footnotes:

1. AZAunited (2023) How the Autism Diagnosis Has Evolved Over Time. Retrieved from https://azaunited.org/blog/how-the-autism-diagnosis-has-evolved-over-time?utm_source=chatgpt.com 

2.  World Health Organization. (2025). New WHO guidance calls for urgent transformation of mental health policies. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news/item/25-03-2025-new-who-guidance-calls-for-urgent-transformation-of-mental-health-policies 

3.  Bayetti, C., Bakhshi, P., Davar, B., Khemka, G. C., Kothari, P., Kumar, M., … & Jain, S. (2023). Critical reflections on the concept and impact of “scaling up” in Global Mental Health. Transcultural Psychiatry, 60(3), 602-609. Mad In America+1PMC+1

 4. Cosgrove, L., & Wheeler, E. E. (2013). Industry's colonization of psychiatry: Ethical and practical implications of financial conflicts of interest in the DSM-5. Feminism & Psychology, 23(1), 93-106.

 5. Thakur, R. (2024). WHO set for power grab in globalised health bureaucracy. The Australian.

6. Ibid

Gordon: Thank you for an exceptional and informative interview.

[1] AZAunited (2023) How the Autism Diagnosis Has Evolved Over Time. Retrieved from https://azaunited.org/blog/how-the-autism-diagnosis-has-evolved-over-time?utm_source=chatgpt.com

[2] World Health Organization. (2025). New WHO guidance calls for urgent transformation of mental health policies. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news/item/25-03-2025-new-who-guidance-calls-for-urgent-transformation-of-mental-health-policies

[3] Bayetti, C., Bakhshi, P., Davar, B., Khemka, G. C., Kothari, P., Kumar, M., … & Jain, S. (2023). Critical reflections on the concept and impact of “scaling up” in Global Mental Health. Transcultural Psychiatry, 60(3), 602-609. Mad In America+1PMC+1

[4] Cosgrove, L., & Wheeler, E. E. (2013). Industry's colonization of psychiatry: Ethical and practical implications of financial conflicts of interest in the DSM-5. Feminism & Psychology, 23(1), 93-106.

[5] Thakur, R. (2024). WHO set for power grab in globalised health bureaucracy. The Australian.

[6] Ibid.