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Varsity Lakes Psychologist

David Hennessy, Clinical Psychologist at Hennessy Clinical Psychology

Varsity Lakes Psychologist

David Hennessy, Clinical Psychologist at Hennessy Clinical Psychology

If you are looking for a psychologist in Varsity Lakes, you are welcome to get in touch to discuss whether David may be helpful for you.

Qualifications

Registered Clinical Psychologist

Member Australian Psychological Association (MAPS)

Fellow of the College of Clinical Psychology (FCCLP)

About David

Prior to working as a clinical psychologist in Varsity Lakes, David has worked across a range of mental health and physical health settings. These have included inpatient acute psychiatric units, psychiatric residential services, 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.

This breadth of experience supports a steady, practical approach to therapy that remains respectful of complexity while staying focused on what is most helpful for each individual.

You can read more about David’s background and approach here: About David.

David is experienced in working  with: 

Get to Know David | David the Psychologist holding a white mug with a red and yellow S symbol and the words Super Psychologist, sitting in his Varsity Lakes office with trees visible through the window.
David Hennessy, Clinical Psychologist in Varisty Lakes, Gold Coast

Therapeutic Approach

Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process. David draws on evidence-based psychological approaches and adapts them carefully to each person’s needs, preferences, and circumstances. Sessions often focus on understanding patterns over time, strengthening coping skills, and supporting values-based change at a pace that feels manageable and realistic.

Importantly, therapy does not require having a clear diagnosis or knowing exactly what the problem is at the outset. Many people begin therapy feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, or stuck. Early sessions often focus on clarifying what is happening and identifying what kind of support may be most helpful.

You are welcome to book online at any time. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Therapy Is For

What kinds of issues does David the psychologist help with?
People seek therapy for many different reasons. A Varsity Lakes psychologist may support adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment difficulties, long-standing mental health concerns, or challenges related to life transitions. Therapy is shaped around the individual rather than applied as a standardised solution.

Is therapy helpful if I am not sure what the main problem is?
Quite often, people arrive feeling unsure rather than having a clear label. In these situations, therapy usually begins by slowing things down and making sense of what is happening in your life. Over time, this process helps clarify what support may be most useful.


Understanding Psychological Care

What is meant by complex adult mental health presentations?
This term refers to difficulties that may be long-standing, overlapping, or influenced by multiple factors such as trauma history, physical health conditions, or repeated stressors. Therapy often focuses on understanding patterns and building sustainable ways forward rather than quick fixes.

What approaches are used by David the psychologist?
David draws on evidence-based psychological therapies and adapts them to the individual. Sessions commonly focus on insight, practical coping strategies, and values-based change, while maintaining a steady and realistic pace.


Clinical and Practical Questions

Can a clinical psychologist do the same work as a general psychologist?
Yes. Clinical psychologists are trained to provide the same core psychological therapies as general psychologists. In addition, they complete further postgraduate training focused on assessment and treatment of more complex mental health difficulties. For most people, the therapeutic relationship matters more than professional titles.

Do clinical psychologists cost more than general psychologists in Varsity Lakes?
Fees vary depending on experience and service type. Clinical psychologists often charge higher fees due to additional training. However, Medicare rebates for clinical psychology sessions are also higher, which may reduce out-of-pocket costs. Further information about Medicare rebates and private fees is available on the fees and referrals page.

Do I need a referral to see David the psychologist, in his Varsity Lakes clinic? 
You can attend without a referral as a private-pay client. However, if you wish to access Medicare rebates, a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP is required.

Contact Us

Gold Coast & Tweed

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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