About Me

Cormac McCarthy

I am an ACA registered counsellor with a diverse background across education, community services and the creative industries. This experience shapes my thoughtful, practical and person-centred approach, grounded in trauma-informed and strengths-based practice. I have several years’ experience supporting children, young people, adults and families across community-based and school-adjacent settings, including support for anxiety, emotional regulation difficulties, behavioural challenges, school-related stress, relationship difficulties, grief and major life transitions.

I hold a Master of Learning and Teaching, which has strengthened my understanding of child development, learning, behaviour and inclusive educational practice. This supports my work with children, adolescents, parents and carers, and allows me to collaborate effectively with schools, educators and support services. My broader creative industries background also informs my understanding of identity, creativity, motivation, performance pressure and life transitions.

Alongside counselling, I have extensive experience in case management, advocacy and collaborative practice with schools, allied health professionals and community organisations. This systems-based perspective helps ensure support is practical, coordinated and aligned with each client’s broader context. I also continue to engage in professional development across trauma-informed practice, child and adolescent mental health, behaviour support and family systems to provide responsive, evidence-informed and developmentally appropriate care.

Growing Pains is a youth counselling and educational advocacy service supporting young people and families across Logan, the Scenic Rim and surrounding areas. Founded by Cormac McCarthy, the service provides practical, down-to-earth support for young people navigating anxiety, identity, school challenges, family stress and life transitions. The focus is on creating a safe, respectful space where young people feel heard, understood and empowered.

With a background in youth and family case management and community work, Cormac brings extensive frontline experience supporting individuals across a wide range of circumstances – including mental health challenges, family breakdown, school disengagement, behavioural concerns and complex social stressors. Growing Pains works not only with young people, but with parents, caregivers and schools to advocate for fair, inclusive and strengths-based educational outcomes.