My name is Kelly McConville, and I’m a provisional psychologist with Wakai Waian Healing. I’m currently completing the 5+1 pathway through La Trobe University, and I’ve always felt deeply drawn to psychology – not just as a profession, but as a way to understand people, relationships, and healing. I’m especially passionate about working with young people and supporting them through strength-based and trauma-informed care.
Joining a First Nations-led organisation like Wakai Waian felt like a natural and important choice. There’s a significant gap in psychology education and practice when it comes to culturally safe approaches for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples – and I wanted to be part of closing that gap. I was born on Gooreng Gooreng Country in Gladstone and am now based on Gubbi Gubbi Country on the Sunshine Coast. I have deep family ties with Indigenous communities, especially in Sydney, where many of my extended family members live and work – including my aunty, who lives on the Sunshine Coast and has been a long-time advocate in youth justice and a big inspiration in my life.
My background is diverse – I started out in communications before finding my calling in psychology. Since then, I’ve studied across various universities, completing a Bachelor of Psychology, Honours, and now my Master’s. I’ve worked mostly in trauma-focused spaces, and I’m especially drawn to holistic, evidence-based approaches that centre healing, resilience, and collective strength.
What keeps me grounded is my family. They’ve been my biggest support system through the highs and lows of study and practice. In five years, I hope I’m still with Wakai Waian, deepening my skills, learning from community, and contributing to meaningful change alongside our incredible team.