Joel McNamara, ACA

Joel McNamara is an experienced counsellor who helps people address life challenges and shift their relationship with unwanted patterns such as symptoms of anxiety, depression, and addictive behaviours. He works collaboratively with clients to explore what a valued life looks like for them and to build practical steps that make those values more present day to day.

He frames therapy as an open, non-judgemental conversation in which the counsellor and the client - who is the expert on their own life - partner to clarify problems, uncover the underlying wants or needs those problems represent, and design actionable plans to bring those wants into regular experience. His practice emphasizes compassion, curiosity, and clear goal-setting while remaining responsive to each person’s unique context.

Joel draws on a person-centred foundation supported by approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). He also incorporates techniques that work with the body and nervous system to support emotional and behavioural regulation, and he tailors interventions to fit the client rather than applying any single method rigidly. Joel holds the ACA credential, a professional counselling association designation that reflects recognised standards in the field.

He welcomes clients seeking support across a wide range of concerns and has substantial experience working cross-culturally. Joel has a particular interest in supporting young adults and in men’s mental health, and he aims to create a collaborative, respectful space for exploration and change.