Gemma Mackenzie

Welcome. I’m here to help you navigate life’s challenges and discover your path to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

As a dedicated psychologist, I believe in the power of therapy to foster profound, lasting change. My approach centres on understanding what brings you contentment and meaning, using our therapeutic relationship to explore deeper questions and promote self-awareness. This, I find, is the key to long-lasting, enriching, and meaningful transformation.

Drawing from a diverse range of therapeutic modalities, including Existential Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Schema Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Family Systems and Attachment, Person-Cantered Therapy, Behaviour Therapy, and Mindfulness practice, I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs. Despite our histories and circumstances, we all strive for purpose, fulfilment, and growth. In our sessions, I will provide a safe, supportive space where you can embark on that journey.

Many of my clients seek therapy to improve their quality of life, gain better self-understanding, and work in a collaborative, non-judgmental environment. I specialise in helping those experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, mood swings, interpersonal difficulties, and trauma.

I have a particular interest in working with both adults and adolescents who have experienced childhood abuse, neglect, or attachment injuries, but not all my clients come from these backgrounds. I support many clients who are not necessarily in distress but wish to enhance their resilience and self-awareness.

My therapeutic approach is collaborative, client-centred, and evidence-based. Together, we will identify your individual needs, uncover often-overlooked strengths, and develop a tailored treatment plan. In our initial consultations, I conduct a clinical assessment to understand your history and establish the focus of therapy, ensuring we are on track and working towards meaningful and enduring changes.

Whether you’re looking to develop coping mechanisms for recent stressors or address long-standing life patterns, I am here to assist.

With experience in private practice, non-profit, and government roles, I have worked with individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds, including ex-pats. I’ve also facilitated professional development workshops and retreats that incorporate art therapy.

I am a registered psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and a Medicare provider of psychology services.

In addition to my university training to become a psychologist, I have further education in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, complex trauma, attachment-focused training for youth, carer recovery processes, suicide prevention, and I have a post-graduate diploma in Anthroposophic Art Therapy.

On a personal note, I am a mother of two young children and reside in the beautiful Northern Rivers region of NSW. Growing up in this area, I bring a local perspective to those seeking guidance and support.

My areas of expertise include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Trauma and PTSD
• Transition and adjustment difficulties
• Self-esteem and self-development
• Stress management and relaxation
• Relationship challenges
• The perinatal period
• Grief and bereavement
• Gender and sexual identity
• Sexual assault
• Concerns associated with relocating/living abroad

I look forward to working with you.