Nicholas Kerr

Nicholas Kerr is a registered psychologist who specialises in counselling for depression and anxiety, workplace issues, and assessment and report writing. He has worked in the industry for over 18 years in the mental health sector as a case manager, in psychological assessment and counselling, and as an organisational psychology consultant.

Experience

I have extensive experience working as a case manager in the mental health sector with clients suffering from severe mental distress including schizophrenia, drug dependency, and autism. Since qualifying as a psychologist, I worked in the employment services sector doing job capacity assessments and counselling. I have worked in small business as an independent consultant providing assessment solutions and undertaking professional development initiatives. More recently, I have focussed on telecounselling and assessment for recruitment and fitness for work. I also have recent experience working with WorkCover and the Employee Assistance Program.

Approach

I believe it is important to establish an engaging rapport and create a space for open communication.

My approach is client-centered in that it emphasises the client’s experience and places value on their own perspective and insight. Every individual is unique and I always endeavour to employ a therapeutic style that resonates with their needs and personality. I typically cognitive therapy to identify an individual’s distressing thoughts and negative behaviours and work to create a more positive mindset. I aim to empower individuals to become their own psychologist by developing basic strategies that can be easily employed in different situations. My interests include cognitive therapy for depression, stress inoculation therapy, anxiety reduction strategies, mindfulness practice and sleep hygiene.

Assessment

I have extensive knowledge and experience in psychological assessment and reporting including personality and intelligence, diagnosis, job capacity, professional development, recruitment screening, criminal injury trauma and NDIS psychosocial assessment. I can select the most valid assessment tool that will yield reliable and easily interpreted results. I work as a strategic partner to my clients in line with their individual objectives and organisational values. I understand the need to adapt the approach and reporting style to specific legal and regulatory frameworks.