Meet GP Counsellor, Dr Louise Kirby

With more than three decades’ experience in medicine, Dr Louise Kirby brings a unique perspective to her role with us as a GP counsellor at Think Mental Health.  

Originally trained as a medical doctor, Louise worked across anaesthetics, emergency medicine, paediatrics and obstetrics before focusing on general practice for 17 years in a rural community. 

Her career in medicine gave her deep insight into the close connection between the mind and body. 

 “I have always been interested in the way psychological distress manifests physically, and in the thinking and behavioural patterns that can keep people stuck and suffering,” she explains.  

That curiosity, combined with her core values of family, connection, compassion and integrity, eventually led her to pursue further study in psychology. 

Louise has trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and GP-focused psychological skills. She also has a long-standing mantra meditation practice, which she finds invaluable both personally and in her work with clients. 

Over the years, Louise has supported people through times of hardship, loss and transition. She is particularly passionate about helping those who carry significant responsibilities, such as carers, health professionals and women navigating family life, career, motherhood and menopause. She also works closely with people at risk of burnout, providing practical strategies to prevent and manage the pressures of modern life. 

At Think Mental Health, Louise values the opportunity to work within a multidisciplinary team.  

“It’s a calm and supportive environment where everyone is focused on providing high-quality, evidence-based care,” she says. Collaboration is central to her practice, with regular teaching and supervision sessions ensuring that clients benefit from the combined expertise of the team. 

When it comes to her approach with clients, Louise emphasises patience, curiosity and empathy.  

“I listen carefully to each person’s story in a non-judgemental way. Acknowledging our shared humanity helps build connection, and from there we can explore skills and new ways of responding that align with their values.” 

For Louise, the most rewarding moments are often the simplest. “Any time a client says that what we’ve worked on is helping them brings me great satisfaction,” she says. 

Outside of client work, Louise stays engaged with the evolving field of psychology through professional development, seminars and conferences. She also believes that practising the same strategies she teaches, such as mindfulness and values-driven living, is essential to being effective as a psychologist. 

Louise sees her role at Think Mental Health as an extension of her long-standing commitment to community care.  

“Our shared goal is to help people develop psychological flexibility, self-compassion and to live according to their values. That’s what creates healthier individuals, families and communities.”