Dr. June Samuel is a distinguished psychiatrist and medical director with a remarkable 30-year track record in mental health services across the British Virgin Islands and beyond. After earning her Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB.BS) from the University of the West Indies in 1992, she further specialized in psychiatry, completing multiple parts of her Doctor of Medicine in the field. As the first female psychiatrist in the BVI, Dr. Samuel has broken barriers and championed mental health awareness, founding the BVI Alzheimer’s Association and spearheading the development of a comprehensive mental health act that serves as a model for the Caribbean.
In her role as the medical director and owner of 5 Doctors Medical and Wellness Center, Dr. Samuel has been instrumental in promoting integrated healthcare, emphasizing partnerships among medical professionals to provide comprehensive treatment. Additionally, as a consultant psychiatrist for the BVI Health Services Authority, she leads initiatives to improve mental health services, including the notable Crisis Intervention Team— a pioneering effort in the region. Throughout her career, she has held various leadership roles, including serving as the Chief of Medical Staff at the BVI Health Services Authority, where she oversaw the development of medical services.
Dr. Samuel’s commitment to professional development is evident in her extensive participation in numerous training programs, continuing medical education, and several impactful presentations which address crucial topics in mental health, both locally and internationally. She has been a salient voice in discussions surrounding domestic violence, mental health issues in the elderly, and the effects of trauma, ensuring that her insights contribute toward creating safer and healthier communities.
Beyond her clinical expertise, Dr. Samuel is a dedicated educator and mentor, having taught at both the H.L. Stoutt Community College and the University of the West Indies. Her contributions to the field of psychiatry have not only improved standards of care in the BVI but have also inspired a new generation of medical professionals dedicated to mental health and wellness. Her unwavering commitment continues to shape the landscape of mental healthcare in the Caribbean, reflecting her deep belief in the power of holistic wellness.