About Me
Hi and welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. My name is Derrek and I’m a clinical psychologist in Ladhope Chambers in Spring Hill, Brisbane.
I offer a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space for everyone, embracing all cultural backgrounds, gender identities, and sexual orientations. My therapeutic approach blends psychodynamic and attachment theories, focusing on compassion, empathy, and creating a healing environment.
My passion lies in helping people make sense of, work through, and rise above life’s challenges, especially those involving trauma. I’m particularly dedicated to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, having published research on topics related to sexual minority stress, identity integration, internalised sexual prejudice, stigma, and post-sex dysphoria.
As a former defence force member, I also have a deep commitment to supporting current and ex-serving military personnel through military-related trauma, relationship challenges, and the unique transition back into civilian life.
In my spare time, you’ll find me enjoying the beach, pottering in the garden, socialising with friends and family, sweating it out at the gym, or escaping deep into a good book or movie on the couch.
Qualifications
I have completed six years of university training and supervised experience at Swinburne University of Technology, Central Queensland University, and the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), with a further 2 years of clinical psychology endorsement training, obtaining the following:
Master of Clinical Psychology
Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours)
Bachelor of Behavioural Studies (Psychology)
Clinical Psychologist endorsement
In addition, I have 20 years experience as a senior cardiac scientist working in hospitals and private clinics both here in Australia and internationally, having completed:
Bachelor of Biomedical Science
Master of Science (Clinical Physiology)
Grad Dip Medical Ultrasound (Cardiac I & II)
Publications
An Exploration of the Psychological Benefits of Participation in LGBTQ Sport