Johnny Kieran​-Black

My name is Johnny (he/they), and I am a qualified practitioner in both Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) and  Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR). In CAT, I focus with clients on us understanding how they think, feel, and act, making sense together of the significant events and relationships that have shaped their experiences. This approach helps clients draw meaningful connections between their past relationships, including systemic interactions, and their current sense of self. As an EMDR practitioner, I integrate this modality using Attachment-Focused EMDR principles, creating a unique therapeutic approach that blends the introspective and relational focus of CAT with the powerful processing capabilities of EMDR. These therapies, in concert, form my primary modalities, offering a comprehensive framework to address and heal from a range of psychological and emotional challenges.

I also have training in:

• Polyvagal Theory
• Group Schema Therapy
• Dialectic Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
• Open Dialogue 
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

I provide a distinct approach beyond the confines of standardised Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), skilfully tailoring therapies to align with the individual needs of each client. I firmly believe in the uniqueness of each therapeutic relationship, ensuring that every interaction with my clients is distinct and personalised. My  practice is deeply rooted in a trauma-informed, neurodivergent-friendly, and gender-affirming ethos. I am committed to an anti-oppressive and sex-positive approach, valuing the diverse experiences and identities of all my clients.

I have been grateful and privileged to learn so much from my clients over the years; I am now very experienced in working with survivors of trauma, grief and loss, alcohol and substance problems, various forms of self-harm and relationship difficulties.

An Accredited Clinical and Mental Health Social Worker, I have worked in public and private psychiatric hospital settings for over 24 years. This experience means I have also developed astute assessment skills and knowledge in identifying and treating a broad range of mental health issues, including Complex PTSD, Gender Dysphoria, depression, anxiety, personality, psychotic and bipolar spectrum and eating disorders. I have worked in private practice since 2012, initially part time and now full time.

Having grown up in Scotland, migrating to Australia in 2008 and being a member of LGBTQIA+ community, I am attuned from personal experience to how it can feel to be considered ‘different’. I understand how hard it can be to talk about traumatic experiences and I strive to bring warmth, partnership, acceptance and compassion to all my work. Additionally, I am joined most days at work by PJ (she/her), my collegial therapy dog, born in 2021. PJ provides emotional support and acts as a role model for our community, enhancing the supportive environment we strive to create.

To find out more about the above therapy modalities, please click on hyperlinks on my website.