Anne Mc Kenny CBT Therapist Belfast

Anne McKenny CBT Therapist Belfast

About

Anne McKenny is a highly respected Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist based in Belfast, with an impressive career spanning over 35 years. Known for her warm, compassionate approach, Anne has dedicated her professional life to supporting individuals as they navigate personal challenges and emotional distress.

Her extensive experience includes working in a variety of mental health teams, with a particular focus on trauma recovery. Anne provides a supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings, develop new perspectives, and learn practical strategies for positive change.

In addition to her psychotherapy practice, Anne has played a key role in the development of mental health services across Northern Ireland. She has lectured at universities, trained mental health professionals, and contributed to strategic development in the field.

Anne holds an Honours Degree in Psychology and is a Registered Mental Health Nurse. She was among the first practitioners in Northern Ireland to receive advanced training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Furthermore, she is a member of the British Association for Behavioural & Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP) and a European Accredited Consultant in Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR). Her research contributions were recognised when she was awarded a Florence Nightingale Scholarship for her work on treating Eating Disorders in Europe and North America.

Services

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a practical, evidence-based talking therapy that helps people understand how their thoughts, feelings, physical sensations, and behaviours are interconnected. Often, negative thinking patterns can trap individuals in cycles of distress. CBT equips clients with the tools to break these cycles, change unhelpful thoughts, and adopt healthier behaviours.

Anne uses CBT to treat a variety of psychological problems, including:

• Anxiety-related disorders

• Panic disorders

• Phobias

• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

• Insomnia

• Depression

CBT empowers clients to gain clarity, manage their emotions, and approach challenges with greater resilience.

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is a highly effective, research-backed therapeutic technique used primarily for trauma recovery. It helps individuals process distressing memories in a safe, controlled environment. Based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, EMDR allows clients to revisit painful experiences without becoming overwhelmed, leading to a reduction in emotional distress.

Anne offers EMDR for a range of issues, including PTSD, major trauma, anxiety disorders, and other emotional difficulties.

Areas of Expertise

Anne works with both adolescents and adults, addressing a wide spectrum of mental health concerns. Her key areas of interest include:

• Major Trauma

• OCD

• EMDR

• Anxiety Disorders

• Bereavement

• Depression

• Family Therapy

• Individual Therapy

• PTSD

• Adolescent Mental Health

• Bulimia Nervosa

Additional Information

Anne provides both face-to-face therapy at her Belfast practice and remote online therapy, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for all clients. Self-referral is available for both CBT and EMDR services, making it easier for individuals to seek help directly.

Recognised and accredited by leading health insurers, Anne’s services offer reassurance and professional standards.

Client Testimonials

Anne’s approach has had a profound impact on many of her clients. One young client shared:

“Don’t know how I would have been able to go back to school if I hadn’t met Anne. She made things feel possible again.” — Female (16 yrs)

Anne McKenny provides more than therapy — she offers a path to healing, growth, and sustainable change. For those seeking a skilled and compassionate guide on their journey to improved mental health, Anne’s practice in Belfast offers a trusted solution.