About Anna O’Grady – Holistic Psychologist in Adelaide
Compassionate psychological support tailored for you
Anna O’Grady Psychologist
About Anna O’Grady – Holistic Psychologist in Adelaide
Hello and welcome! I’m Anna, a registered psychologist with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field and the heart behind this holistic psychology practice in Adelaide.
During my fifteen-year career working within the psychology field, I have trained and become proficient in a range of contemporary evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Therapy and Solution Focused Training. In addition, I incorporate current approaches found within neuroscience, Positive Psychology, eastern philosophy and meditation/relaxation practices.
People often tell me they feel like they can finally exhale when we talk, like they can drop the mask and be real. That’s exactly what I hope to offer: a space that feels calm, safe and human.
My mission is simple: to help people break free from old, unhelpful patterns so they can feel more connected and free to live with purpose. Whether you’re navigating emotional overwhelm, feeling stuck, or searching for direction, I’m here to walk alongside you with compassion and clarity.
Beyond the therapy room
Away from work, I enjoy long walks in nature and have an affinity with water – I love being immersed either in a pool or the ocean. Swimming is a form of meditation for me.
Music is a big part of my life and I enjoy listening to and discovering new music – even better, live music! I enjoy getting lost in a good book or movie, the creative process of writing, cooking delicious meals (and cakes!) and I’ve been known to dabble in painting for the pure fun of it.
Above all else, my passion and calling is to research all things related to the human spirit and what propels us forward.
It takes courage and commitment to take the first step in therapy. But if you’re ready to actively participate in your own healing, you can shift the course of what once felt predetermined and start creating a life that feels expansive, meaningful, and truly yours.
My approach is psychology with heart and authenticity
I bring a grounded and compassionate presence to every session. My work blends evidence based psychological therapies with a holistic lens because I believe people are more than a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. I consider not just your thoughts and behaviours but your body, your relationships, your values, your nervous system and sense of meaning.
My sessions are collaborative and non-pathologising. I see you as the expert in your life. I’m here to help you uncover your own insight and inner resources. Together, we explore what’s beneath the surface, gently challenge unhelpful patterns, and work towards real, sustainable change.
Professional background and credentials
I’m a fully registered psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and hold a Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology) with a Post Graduate Diploma awarded through Bond University. In addition, I completed a Masters in Counselling through the University of South Australia.
Over the past 15+ years, I’ve worked in a wide range of community and clinical settings across Adelaide. This includes:
- Mental health services and therapeutic programs
- Employment assistance and workplace wellbeing
- Women’s health and advocacy organisations
- Individual and group therapy environments
I’ve completed further training in a range of evidence-based modalities, including:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Narrative Therapy
- Family Based Systems
- Schema Therapy
- Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
- Mindfulness-based strategies
- Positive Psychology
This diversity in training helps me adapt my approach to meet you where you are, and tailor our work in a way that feels meaningful and sustainable.
Why holistic psychology?
From a young age, I’ve been deeply curious about what it means to live a meaningful and fulfilling life. That curiosity led me to explore both Eastern and Western philosophies, shaping a perspective that sees true healing and personal growth as something that happens when we consider the whole person – not just isolated symptoms or behaviours.
Over the past 15+ years working in the psychology field, I’ve come to see that while modern psychological approaches are powerful, they can sometimes focus too heavily on symptom management without addressing the deeper causes of distress. I don’t believe we can fully support someone by treating only one part of their experience – our emotional, physical, and mental wellbeing are all deeply interconnected.
To me, a holistic approach means understanding the full context of a person’s life – their physical health, environment, beliefs, habits, personality, and relationships and how all these elements shape their sense of self and overall wellbeing.
That belief is what inspired me to create Anna O’Grady Psychology: a practice that integrates evidence-based therapies like CBT and ACT with mindfulness skills and a more personalised, integrative approach.
My aim is to support you in moving beyond just coping – to uncover what’s truly holding you back, reconnect with the deeper layers of who you are and create a stronger foundation for a life that feels aligned, empowered, and purposeful.
A holistic, integrative approach to your care
My values and what you can expect
At the centre of my work are the values of:
Collaboration & personalisation
Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. I work collaboratively and adapt my approach to suit each individual whether it’s a focused short-term goal or a deeper journey of healing.
Empowerment through insight & practical tools
Clients leave sessions not only with insight but also with tools to apply in daily life. I value real, tangible progress, delivered with honesty, clarity, and care.
Whole-person perspective
I consider emotional, physical, relational, and environmental influences in every session because we’re not just our thoughts or diagnoses, we’re whole people navigating complex lives.
Presence, humour & realness
Clients often tell me they feel they can “drop the mask.” I show up as a real human grounded, compassionate, and sometimes humorous when the moment calls for it. Laughter and lightness are often part of the process too.
Authenticity & self-compassion
I help clients build a kinder, more accepting relationship with themselves. From this place, growth feels more sustainable rooted in understanding, not pressure.
Creativity & intuition
I work with intuitive flexibility, drawing from a range of evidence-based approaches and creative strategies to meet you where you are mentally, emotionally, and physically.
What clients often say about our sessions
I offer more than clinical expertise. I bring warmth, curiosity, authenticity and a deep respect for your lived experience. Clients often tell me they feel truly seen and understood in our sessions. I listen closely, adapt thoughtfully, and work without judgement.
My style is both compassionate and gently challenging, helping you get to the heart of things at your own pace. This is a safe space where you don’t have to perform or pretend – just show up as you are, and we’ll go from there.
It’s okay to have questions
You don’t have to be in crisis or have everything figured out to start therapy. People come to me for many reasons: anxiety, relationship struggles, burnout, and a sense that something feels off. Wherever you’re starting from, I’ll meet you there.
If you’d like to learn more about the types of support I offer, visit the service pages below:
- Psychological Counselling Adelaide
- Coaching Psychologist Adelaide
Reach out if you’re ready to begin or simply want to learn more. Sessions are available online or in person. No referral needed.