About Dan
Hi, I'm Dan Macdonald (he/him), a Clinical Psychologist based in Sydney and the Director of Lavender Psychology. I provide therapy for adults and couples, along with autism, AuDHD, and cognitive assessments for adolescents and adults.
I work with people experiencing a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, OCD, trauma, relationship difficulties, life transitions, identity exploration, and neurodivergence. I also have a particular interest in supporting LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent individuals and couples through affirming, evidence-based care.
My approach is collaborative, trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ affirming, neuroaffirming, and tailored to the person sitting in front of me. Whether someone is seeking therapy, assessment, or greater self-understanding, I aim to create a space that feels safe, thoughtful, and respectful, while supporting meaningful and lasting change.
Outside of work, you'll usually find me reading, spending time with people I care about, at the gym, or negotiating with Benjamin, my mini Groodle, about who is actually in charge. I value spaces that feel calm, connected, and authentic, and I try to bring those same qualities into my clinical work.
Welcome to Lavender Psychology
How I Work
I believe therapy works best when people feel understood, respected, and safe enough to explore the things that matter most to them. Rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach, I tailor therapy to each person's goals, strengths, experiences, and support needs.
My work is informed by evidence-based approaches including EMDR, ACT, CBT, DBT, EFT, mindfulness-based therapies, and imagery rescripting. More importantly, I aim to use these approaches in a way that feels collaborative, practical, and meaningful.
What Matter to Me
Some of the values that guide my work include:
LGBTQIA+ affirming care
Neuroaffirming practice
Respect for autonomy and lived experience
Trauma-informed support
Compassion without judgement
Evidence-based care delivered with warmth and humanity
I believe people deserve mental health care that feels respectful, inclusive, and genuinely helpful. Whatever brings you to therapy, my hope is that you feel understood, accepted, and supported throughout the process.
Why Lavender?
Lavender Psychology was created with a simple goal: to provide psychological care that feels thoughtful, affirming, and genuinely welcoming.
The name Lavender reflects both the values of the practice and the environment I hope to create. Lavender has a rich history within LGBTQIA+ communities and is often associated with authenticity, resilience, and visibility. It is also known for its calming qualities and sense of comfort and familiarity.
For me, Lavender represents a space where people can better understand themselves, navigate challenges, and move towards meaningful change without needing to hide who they are.
At Lavender Psychology, you are welcome just as you are.
The Heart of the Practice
Meet Benjamin, Lavender Psychology's unofficial Office Manager, professional morale booster, and part-time chaos gremlin.
Benjamin is a mini Groodle with no formal qualifications, questionable administrative skills, and a firm belief that most problems can be improved with snacks and a cuddle. While he doesn't attend sessions, he plays an important role behind the scenes by reminding me not to take life too seriously.
More importantly, Benjamin represents something I value deeply at Lavender Psychology: creating a space that feels warm, human, and welcoming from the moment someone reaches out.
Ready to Connect?
Whether you're looking for therapy, an assessment, or simply exploring your options, support is available. You're welcome to reach out with any questions.