Lisa Mackinnon

Lisa Mackinnon is an AASW social worker with 17 years of experience supporting people through anxiety, stress, depression, grief and trauma. She listens without judgement and helps people untangle what feels overwhelming so they can find clearer choices and calmer days.

Her work starts with the person in front of her. She focuses on what feels right for each individual and looks for practical steps that reduce distress. Conversations aim to identify strengths, workable options and small changes that fit day-to-day life.

Lisa uses a mix of approaches that suit the issue and the person. She draws on client-centred ways of working to keep the focus on the client’s priorities. She also uses solution-focused and somatic ideas to build coping skills and ease bodily stress responses.

Trauma is a particular area of experience. She helps people understand trauma reactions and works at a pace that feels supported. Simple tools and grounding techniques are offered alongside talk-based work to help manage intense emotions and flashbacks.

Practical techniques such as Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) are sometimes included where helpful. The aim is to support movement away from depression, panic and isolation and towards greater self-connection and clearer decision-making.

People who reach out can expect a calm, validating approach that emphasises collaboration. Lisa helps unpack difficult feelings and map steps forward so people can begin to feel more able to cope and plan for change.

How these approaches translate to online work