Member Australian Psychological Association (MAPS)
Fellow of the College of Clinical Psychology (FCCLP)
(The University of Queensland)
(Griffith University)
Prior to being a clinical psychologist in Varsity Lakes, David has worked in a range of mental health and physical health settings, including: inpatient acute psychiatric and psychiatric residential, acute medical health psychology, community mental health case management, and private practice as a registered clinical psychologist. David also spent eight years with Lifeline across counselling, supervision, and training roles.
You can read more about David’s background and approach here: About David.
David works psychotherapeutically with adults and adolescents across a wide range of presentations, including:
You are welcome to book online at a time that suits you.
Why what we desire in the moment often conflicts with what matters to us long-term. This article explores the psychology behind short-term relief, long-term values, and how psychological flexibility supports meaningful living over time.
Pain is shaped not only by the body, but by how the nervous system evaluates threat and safety. This article explains how the autonomic nervous system responds to pain and how psychology can support pain management as part of a multidisciplinary approach.
Attachment wounds describe how early relational experiences shape emotional regulation, adult relationships, and nervous system responses. This article offers a clear, compassionate, evidence-based explanation of what attachment wounds are and how healing is possible.
Firm but fair is a simple yet powerful principle for healthier relationships. Being too nice can lead to resentment, while being not nice enough can damage trust. This post explores a balanced and realistic middle path that supports emotional safety, boundaries, and compassion across everyday relationships.
Strong emotions are part of being human. This article explains emotional regulation in a grounded, evidence based way and offers practical strategies to respond more helpfully when feelings become intense or overwhelming.
trauma informed therapy, trauma informed care, trauma and mental health, psychological safety, nervous system regulation, trauma focused therapy, complex trauma, post traumatic stress, emotional regulation, evidence based therapy, clinical psychology, mental health support, therapeutic relationship, counselling and psychology
What kinds of issues does David Hennessy work with?
People seek therapy for many different reasons, and there is no single right starting point. David works with adults experiencing a wide range of psychological concerns, including complex and long-standing mental health presentations, mood and anxiety difficulties, trauma, adjustment to health conditions, and challenges related to life transitions. Importantly, therapy is shaped around the individual rather than applied as a one-size-fits-all approach.
Is therapy suitable even if I am not sure what the main problem is?
Quite often, people arrive feeling unsure or overwhelmed rather than having a clear label. In these situations, early sessions typically focus on slowing things down and understanding what is happening in your life. Over time, this process helps clarify priorities and identify what kind of support may be most helpful.
What is meant by “complex adult mental health presentations”?
In practice, this term refers to situations where difficulties may be long-standing, overlapping, or influenced by multiple factors. For example, trauma history, physical health conditions, neurodiversity, or repeated stressors can interact over time. As a result, therapy often focuses on understanding patterns and building practical, sustainable ways forward rather than aiming for quick fixes.
What approach does David use in therapy?
Rather than relying on a single method, David draws on evidence-based psychological therapies and adapts them to the individual. Along the way, sessions often focus on making sense of experiences, strengthening practical coping skills, and supporting values-based change. This work is paced carefully so that progress feels manageable, realistic, and respectful of each person’s circumstances.
Can a clinical psychologist do the same work as a general psychologist?
In short, yes. Clinical psychologists are trained to provide the same core psychological therapies as general psychologists. In addition, they complete further postgraduate training with a focus on assessment and treatment of more complex and severe mental health difficulties. For most people, however, the quality of the therapeutic relationship matters more than the title alone.
Do clinical psychologists cost more than general psychologists?
Fees can vary depending on location, experience, and the type of service offered. In many cases, clinical psychologists charge higher fees due to their additional postgraduate training. However, Medicare rebates for clinical psychology sessions are also higher, which can reduce the overall out-of-pocket cost. For most people, the best fit depends on individual needs, preferences, and what feels sustainable over time.
Do I need a referral to see a clinical psychologist?
From a practical point of view, you can attend as a private-pay client without a referral. However, if you wish to access Medicare rebates, a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP is required.
This in not a crisis service. For crisis assistance please call:
000 for an Emergency response
13 11 14 for Lifeline
1300 642 255 for The Acute Care Team (1300 MH CALL)
or attend your nearest hospital
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