I am a Registered Clinical Psychologist with a Master of Clinical Psychology from the University of Sydney. I am also an Associate Member of the Australian Clinical Psychology Association and the Australian Psychological Society.
About Me
Growing up in Sydney’s rich and diverse cultural landscape, I developed an innate curiosity about people and the world around me. Before becoming a psychologist, I traveled extensively, spending time living and working in New Zealand, New York, and London.
These experiences—meeting and connecting with people from all walks of life—deepened my passion for human connection and understanding. Combining this with my love for helping others and my interest in human behavior, I pursued a career in psychology.
Professional Experience
I hold a Master of Clinical Psychology from the University of Sydney. Alongside my role at McKinnon Psychology, I work in the Department of Pain Management at Prince of Wales Hospital, where I collaborate with doctors, physiotherapists, and nurses to support patients navigating the psychosocial challenges of complex physical conditions.
I have experience working with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, attachment styles, depression, emotion regulation, work and life stress, trauma, chronic pain, OCD, parenting, and family dynamics.
My Approach
I am a warm, empathetic, and client-centered psychologist dedicated to creating a safe and supportive therapeutic space. I believe that you are the expert in your own lived experiences, and my role is to guide and empower you in understanding your emotions, behaviors, and needs.
My goal is to help you develop the skills to navigate challenges and build a fulfilling, balanced life.
I take an integrative approach, drawing upon evidence-based therapies tailored to each individual’s unique needs.
My Areas of Interest
I have a particular passion for helping individuals with:
• Anxiety disorders, including social anxiety, separation anxiety, specific phobias, and generalized anxiety
• OCD and perfectionism
• Attachment-related challenges in family, romantic, and interpersonal relationships
• PTSD and Complex PTSD
• Childhood stress and trauma
My Therapeutic Frameworks
My therapeutic approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and incorporates elements of:
Schema Therapy
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Compassion-Focused Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Exposure Therapy
Behavioral Therapy
Attachment-Based Therapies
Parenting Frameworks
Additionally, I am a licensed facilitator of the Circle of Security Parenting Program, supporting parents in fostering secure and healthy relationships with their children.
Interests: Anxiety & Attachment Relationships
I believe that our early life experiences play a pivotal role in shaping our beliefs, emotions, and ways of relating to the world. My therapeutic style incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy and schema therapy to help clients recognize and break unhelpful patterns, while also equipping you with practical strategies for immediate symptom management.
In My Spare Time
I enjoy spending time with family and friends and travelling. Of all the countries I have visited, South Africa holds a special place in my heart. I love cooking and baking and am always searching for new recipes to try! I spend time reading and watching documentaries and love to hear what my clients are enjoying.
Last Updated on July 29, 2025 by Dr Anna McKinnon