Michael MacKay

Current availability for in person and online appointments on Thursdays.

My approach is integrative, drawing from a range of theories and frameworks. It is informed by Person-Centred and Psychodynamic principles, and is underpinned by a belief in an individual’s inherent potential to understand themselves more deeply. In practice, this involves establishing and nurturing a therapeutic alliance as a foundation for our work and taking time to understand your unique context, experiences, strengths and aims for therapy. It also involves exploring your development from childhood through to adulthood, reflecting on important relationships and bringing awareness to patterns which may be limiting you. I utilise Relational Psychotherapy - which recognises that we are relational beings and can come to know ourselves at deeper levels in dialogue with an empathic and attuned other person, such as a therapist. I also utilise Interpersonal Psychotherapy - an approach which sees challenges and opportunities for change in the context of important relationships and transitions.  I also utilise EMDR, an evidence-based approach for trauma.  

I have specialist expertise in the following areas:

LGBTQ+ wellbeing - I believe that, whatever the issue that may bring someone to therapy, LGBTQ+ communities should have access to affirming support which recognises the impact of stigma and celebrates our identities

HIV - I have been involved in the community response to HIV since the 1990’s and understand the impact of grief, loss and discrimination, as well as the resilience, courage, and strength of communities most affected. I believe that affirming psychotherapy can contribute to the wellbeing of anyone affected by HIV.

Domestic Abuse - I work with both victim survivors and perpetrators of domestic abuse and have experience in using evidence-based approaches to facilitate safety and change. I apply a trauma-informed, victim survivor-centred approach when working in this space. When working with perpetrators my approach is accountability-focused.

My approach is collaborative, strengths-focused and relational. I aim to establish a strong therapeutic alliance and utilise this as a starting point from which to explore the person in context of relationships, examine strengths and challenges, and facilitate the development of insight and awareness.  My practice is guided by the principles of trauma-informed care. This involves progressing the work at a pace that is tailored to your individual needs, prioritising collaboration, transparency and curiosity, and working in partnership with you to build safety and trust.

I offer shorter term counselling for specific challenges as well as longer-term psychotherapy focused on growth, learning and exploring patterns which may be holding you back.  I work with a range of issues including: sexuality, coming out, gender affirmation, post-traumatic stress, complex post-traumatic stress , depression, anxiety, grief and loss.

In addition to being a registered Member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy, I am also a social worker, registered with Social Work England. My experience as a social worker helps me to recognise and work with the impact of social and contextual factors which may impact mental health and support clients to see how these factors may be contributing to challenges.

For all new clients, I offer an initial 20 minute telephone or online call to discuss your aims for therapy.  This is free of charge and helps me to understand what is bringing you to therapy and if I may be able to help.  It also provides an opportunity to ask me any questions and aims to help you decide if you feel therapy with me will be a good fit for your needs.