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In person, telehealth and phone
Canberra, ACT
Funding options accepted:
Practical, skills-based therapy
Culturally responsive practice
Evidence-based therapy
Strengths-based approach
Calm, compassionate approach

Andrea McKenzie

Social Worker
Andrea McKenzie is a Social Worker with extensive experience supporting young people from 13, adults and older adults experiencing trauma, grief, family and domestic violence, and developmental trauma. She provides warm, trauma-informed and strengths-based support, helping individuals build resilience, strengthen relationships and move towards meaningful, lasting change.

Professional summary

Andrea has several years of experience delivering therapeutic support across child and family services, education and community settings. Her work has centred on supporting individuals, families, parents and carers, and groups experiencing complex trauma, childhood abuse and neglect, grief, family and domestic violence, and challenges associated with child protection and out-of-home care.

She is passionate about creating safe, inclusive and culturally responsive environments where clients feel heard, respected and empowered. Andrea combines evidence-informed practice with practical strategies and psychoeducation to help people better understand their experiences, strengthen relationships and achieve their goals.

How

Andrea

can help

Andrea supports people experiencing:

  • Trauma and PTSD
  • Developmental trauma
  • Childhood abuse and neglect
  • Family, domestic and sexual violence
  • Grief and loss
  • Child and adolescent mental health
  • Family and relationship challenges
  • Student wellbeing
  • Rehabilitation and recovery
  • Parenting and caregiver support
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Sleep issues
  • Perinatal issues
  • Stress and burnout

She has particular expertise supporting children, young people and families impacted by developmental trauma and attachment disruption, with extensive experience working alongside individuals involved with child protection and out-of-home care services.

Therapeutic approach

Andrea provides trauma-informed, strengths-based and relationship-focused support tailored to each client's individual needs. She believes lasting change occurs when people feel safe, understood and supported, and works collaboratively to build resilience, strengthen relationships and develop practical strategies for everyday life.

Her therapeutic approaches include Family Systems Therapy, Schema Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Trauma-Informed Practice. She also has specialist training in developmental trauma and Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy and is continuing to expand her therapeutic practice through CBT, ACT and DBT.

Qualification & accreditation

  • Accredited Social Worker
  • Graduate Certificate in Developmental Trauma
  • Certificate IV in Mental Health
  • Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) Level 1 & 2
  • Facilitator – Circle of Security
  • Facilitator – Bringing Up Great Kids
  • Facilitator – Seasons for Growth
  • Facilitator – Connect Attachment Program

Personal Approach

"I believe every person deserves to feel heard, respected and understood. My approach is warm, collaborative and strengths-based, combining trauma-informed, evidence-based practice with genuine curiosity and compassion to help individuals and families build resilience, strengthen relationships and create meaningful change."

Why ASPL for social worker?

Are sessions confidential?

Yes. Information shared in sessions is confidential and handled in line with our privacy obligations. We will let you know in advance about the small number of circumstances where we are required to share information (for example, where there is risk of serious harm).

Are sessions in person or online?

Telehealth sessions are available across Australia. In-person availability depends on the social worker and where they practise. Check their profile for appointment options and locations.

Do I need a Mental Health Treatment Plan?

You do not need a referral to book with us. A Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP may allow you to claim a Medicare rebate for sessions with an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker. If you would like one, your GP can prepare it for you.

How much does a session cost?

Session fees vary depending on the practitioner and type of service. Some appointments may be eligible for Medicare rebates, including sessions with eligible psychologists and Accredited Mental Health Social Workers (AMHSWs), where Medicare requirements are met.

We also offer appointments with qualified social workers whose services are not eligible for Medicare rebates.

Our team can explain the available options, applicable fees and any Medicare rebates before you book, helping you make an informed choice about your care.

Is this clinical care or wellbeing support?

This is social work support delivered within a supervised practice. Medicare-funded clinical care is available with our Accredited Mental Health Social Workers. If you are looking for non-clinical wellbeing support, our Wellbeing Coaches sit in a separate service.

Is your social work support trauma-informed?

Yes. Our practice is trauma-informed and recovery-oriented. You are never pushed to share more than you are ready for, and we work with you at the pace that feels right.

What is the difference between a social worker and a psychologist?

Both can support people experiencing mental health challenges. Under a Mental Health Treatment Plan, Medicare rebates may be available with eligible psychologists and Accredited Mental Health Social Workers. A social worker often brings a particular strength in working with trauma, family and relationships, and in helping you navigate the systems and services around your situation. A psychologist often brings particular depth in diagnosis, assessment and structured therapy. We can help you think through which suits you best.