Amy McDonald

I provide support in navigating life’s challenges and transitions, relationship difficulties, negative thinking patterns and self-criticism, so you can build upon existing strengths, develop confidence, explore identity and move from a place of feeling stuck.

Areas of Special Interest

• anxiety
• depression
• stress
• grief and loss
• relational difficulties
• low self esteem
• sense of self

Counselling Services

I provide a warm respectful space where you can explore your values and goals, clarify and process what is troubling you and develop tools and strategies that help manage and make sense of difficult thinking, emotions and behaviors. In this collaborative process of discovery my aim is that you will feel stronger and better resourced to respond to life’s challenges. Through gaining new insights and reaching new understandings, new possibilities are generated and problems can be approached from a fresh perspective, allowing you to move towards what matters.

Sometimes we hold a limited perspective of ourselves and doubt our capabilities due to our past experiences, belief structures and societal expectations. Through strength based conversations I support people to gain greater awareness and appreciation for themselves that helps bring about the change they seek in order to live more meaningful, rich and satisfying lives and relationships.

Counselling Approach

I am client centered and adaptable, building on the strengths of the client and working in a way that best suits each individual. My approach is informed by Narrative, Feminist, Social Justice and Holistic Health practices. I work with an awareness of how social ideas about gender, sexuality, age, family and cultural beliefs impact people’s life experiences and can create inner conflict.

I use skills and tools from Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, ACT, Compassion Focused Therapy, Mindfulness and Creative processes to explore problems and their solutions and to enhance clients’ resilience.

Background and Experience

I have worked in Mental Health, Correctional settings, Hospice and the disability sector.