Born and bred in the bush, Pip Donaldson was raised on a cattle and cropping property near Boggabri. She understands life on the land and is passionate about helping country people.
“I am dedicated to increasing access to psychological services in rural and remote communities like our own,” said Pip.
“We have great mental health awareness and education in our community, but clinical services are important too… this is why I have chosen to work locally.”
Working with The Psychology and Consultancy Group, Pip is based at Healthwise on Barwan Street, Narrabri, and she has current availability for in-person or Telehealth appointments, including assessments and therapy for adults and children in our region.
Pip’s approach has been described as ‘direct and compassionate’, she is experienced in a range of therapeutic modalities and psychological assessment. Pip strives to make her clients feel at ease, helping them to achieve their goals and to learn more about themselves.
“I like to think that I offer people a service that’s culturally appropriate, informed by someone who has lived a rural life and gets it… for example, engaging in farm talk while also providing professional, clinical services,” she said.
Pip studied through the University of New England possessing a Bachelor of Psychology with Honours and Masters in Professional Psychology. Pip works with adults and children with experience across, but not limited to, assessment for ADHD, autism, learning difficulties and mental health conditions, helping people navigate major life changes, grief, stress, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, burnout and workplace challenges. A strong advocate for access to meaningful mental health support, Pip sees great merit in allied health professionals working together.
“With services limited in our area, working in an allied health team is important to gain the best outcomes for our clients. We all have a common goal to support people, helping them live their best lives and therefore we work better individually when we work together.”
There’s no doubt Pip’s rural upbringing and time on the land have helped shape her passion for psychology along with her drive to make a positive impact. She’s gained a unique insight into the beauty of the bush as well as its challenges and demands.
After finishing high school, Pip chased adventure in the Top End but has always remained closely connected to family farming and in more recent years, local agriculture.
These experiences all played a part in motivating Pip’s six-year commitment to studying psychology and have informed her professional work. She has delivered services across both the public and private sectors for local people and communities across Australia.
“I currently offer face-to-face therapy and assessment for children, adults and families in the Narrabri Shire because I feel that this is needed in our region… I also offer Telehealth to those people who prefer this,” explained Pip.
The fifth generation farmer lives on a farm near Wee Waa with her husband and she can also be found doing cattle work in her time-off at her family property. “Our family has been farming in the Boggabri region for 150 years. It will always be home,” Pip said. “I love cows, being in the outdoors and working hard. I have many fond memories of growing up on the land that will be cherished for life.”
The Courier readers would likely be familiar with Pip’s community involvement – from the sporting field to her creative flair. The watercolour artist said, “Art is important to me because it provides me with respite and an identity outside of my profession”. Pip’s paintings, often inspired by boots, hats and everyday bush life, reflect the same authenticity she brings to her professional work.
Recently joining The Psychology and Consultancy Group as its Narrabri-based psychologist, Pip works with a team of five clinical and registered psychologists providing collaborative, psychological assessment and intervention for adults and children.
Guided by the philosophy of ‘Connection, Acceptance and Growth’, The PaC Group aims to deliver personalised, non-judgmental support for people with mental health, behavioural, developmental and learning concerns. The PaC Group is currently accepting referrals for private, Medicare and NDIS clients for the Narrabri region. People can self-refer via the website or call 0422 751 794 to book in.
Pip encourages people to speak with their local GP about support options that is suited to their needs. The PaC Group is “committed to strengthening mental health across regional, rural and remote Australia with our clinicians being from rural and farming backgrounds.”
Cost for appointments and assessments vary depending on the service and are discussed with you when you make an enquiry.
