Makayla Heard

Registered Psychologist
(MAPS)
BASocSc(Family Studies), Cert IV– Working with alcohol and other drugs

Makayla Heard has been a Registered Psychologist since 2003 and has worked in Eastern and Bayside Melbourne over this duration. Makayla commenced her career in youth services and has extensive experience assessing and treating adolescents and their familiesin a local government setting. In this context Makayla also conducted support groups for same sex attracted young people, and youth with gender issues. As a result she developed significant understanding and a positive interest with young people and adults who identify as Gay Lesbian Bi-sexual Transgender Intersex Queer (GLBTIQ). In addition Makayla has had significant experience in private settings engaging a diverse adult clientele presenting with issues such as depression, bipolar, OCD, relationships and workplace stress. In 2010 Makayla completed a Certificate IV in working with alcohol and other drugs whilst working in a training role at Uniting Care ReGen (formerly Moreland Hall) and has a keen interest and understanding of the treatment of addictions, including gambling. More recently (and as a new mother herself) Makayla has become concerned about the mental health of parents and soon to be parents and the pre and post-natal issues they face. Finally Makayla is registered to provide services through Victims of Crime, TAC, Workcover, Department of Justice and Child Protection. This can include writing reports for court and applications for funding and compensation.

Makayla has a psychodynamic therapeutic orientation which means Makayla believes it is important to address the underlying origins and emotional motivators of client’s behaviour, improve a client’s insight and to explore and process emotions in order for client’s to develop better control over their current choices. In relation to use of alcohol and other drugs, Makayla operates from a harm reduction approach where abstinence is not necessarily the required goal and will tailor treatment to the particular goals of the client. Central to her approach is the positive therapeutic relationship that Makayla develops with all her clients. She has a warm and engaging manner where clients feel easily comfortable. Importantly Makayla is able to integrate skills training, cognitive behavioural strategies and mindfulness skills into her therapy that is individually tailored to a client’s needs.

Clinical Specialities:

Makayla is available on Tuesdays and Saturdays, day and evening appointments.