Dr. Andrew Gardner, PhD (Clinical Psychologist)
Andrew is the founder and principal clinician at Opus Psychology. He has a lifelong love for music, and lived experience of the music industry. Empathy is the foundation of Andrew’s clinical practice. He seeks a deep understanding of the issues people are experiencing, and strives to demonstrate his understanding so that people feel validated. From this shared understanding, Andrew helps create a collaborative treatment plan that is evidence-based. He combines a kind, patient, and friendly demeanour, with a therapeutic approach that is flexible and responsive to individual needs. For example, some people thrive in the context of structured therapy sessions whereas others respond better to a more free-form approach. Andrew will tailor his practice to suit each individual's preferences and needs.
Background and experience
Andrew completed undergraduate and postgraduate studies in psychology at the University of Melbourne, before being awarded a PhD in Clinical Psychology by Monash University. His research, which focused on the relationship between social inclusion and mental health, has been published in scientific journals and presented at international conferences. Andrew has trained in a range of therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy, and schema therapy. He has worked in a variety of settings over the past ten years: community correctional services, alcohol and other drug services, the homelessness sector, university clinics, inpatient and outpatient clinical health psychology at public hospitals, and community mental health services for people with persistent and complex mental illness. He has also worked in busy private practices prior to launching Opus Psychology. This enables Andrew to offer clinical psychological support for a wide range of issues that can sometimes make the human experience difficult.
Andrew is registered as a clinical psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia, within the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA registration No. PSY0002030661). He is also a member of the Australian Psychological Society, and an approved Medicare clinical psychology service provider. Andrew is a member of the Australasian Performing Rights Association (APRA), having previously worked as a songwriter/performer. Songs and albums he has contributed to have been nominated for APRA and ARIA awards. You can read more about Andrew’s love of music and lived experience in the music industry here.