Shannon Burgess | Clinical Psychologist

 

Clinical psychology services for adults involved in the justice system

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I am a clinical psychologist

specialising in adults involved in the justice system — including those with court-ordered requirements or legal challenges. My approach is direct but compassionate: I help clients see patterns in their lives, understand their reactions, and develop tools to change the way they respond — without blame.

 

I work with clients who are motivated to engage in deep psychological work and are ready to explore the parts of themselves that keep them stuck — sometimes slowly, sometimes more directly, always at a pace that’s sustainable. All sessions are online, allowing you to participate from the privacy and comfort of your own space.

 

Who You’ll Be Working With…

While my work is professional and evidence-based, I am also human and relatable. I understand that talking about the things that hurt the most — trauma, past choices, the patterns that lead to legal involvement — can feel vulnerable.

 

I approach this work with empathy, honesty, and a practical mindset. I bring over 15 years of experience in private practice, a background in forensic psychology, and extensive experience supporting adults through complex emotional, relational, and legal challenges.

 

I am a mum, value fitness and wellbeing, and am deeply connected to life and the small moments that make us human. My approach is grounded, human, and real — sessions often include laughter, tears, and honest conversation. You’ll be working with someone who understands the delicacy of this work, knows how to go straight to the heart of the matter, and supports you to safely navigate the process of change.

 My Experience

I have been a registered clinical psychologist since 2009 and have worked in private practice since 2011. My experience includes:

 

  • Forensic contexts and working with clients involved in the justice system
  • Preparing sentencing reports and Section 14 reports
  • Assessment and therapeutic work with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, complex PTSD, trauma, family/attachment difficulties, relational challenges, and more

 

 

My goal is to help you reclaim your power by understanding and working with your patterns, not by trying to “fix” you or control your life.

Therapeutic Approach

I use a range of evidence-based modalities, including:

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
  • Schema Therapy
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Mindfulness and somatic practices
  • DBT strategies
  • Chair work / parts work
  • Radical Exposure Tapping (similar to EMDR)

 

Sessions are collaborative: you bring your lived experience, and I bring clinical tools and insight to illuminate patterns, support change, and help you reclaim your power. We focus on your reactions and choices — not changing other people or situations — with practical, embodied work that shifts stuck emotions and nervous system patterns.

Who I Work With

I work primarily with adults involved in the justice system, including those with court-ordered requirements or legal challenges. Occasionally, exceptions may be made for clients outside this context — if that applies to you, please email me to discuss whether my services would be a good fit.

 

Clients must be motivated to engage in psychological work, ready to explore their patterns, and able to invest in their mental health.

Booking & Contact

To enquire or book a session:

You can email me at [email protected] or 

BOOK ONLINE HERE

FAQs

Clinical Psychology Services