Meet Dr. Louise Hayes
A Journey of Connection, Growth, and Transformation
I believe in the power of human connection and our incredible capacity for growth.
My Story
I began with a simple question: How can we help people, especially young people, not just survive life's challenges, but truly thrive? This led me to years of research, helping my clients via thousands of therapy sessions, and conversations with people who taught me as much as I taught them.
Twenty years ago, I discovered Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and it changed everything. It was an approach that honoured the full spectrum of human experience and the complicated reality of being human.
I noticed that while ACT was transformative for adults, young people needed something different, something that spoke to their unique developmental journey. That's when Joseph Ciarrochi and I created DNA-V, a framework that combines the wisdom of ACT with cutting-edge positive psychology research.
DNA-V is now used for adults and youth, offering a practical, accessible way to build psychological flexibility and create meaning.
What Drives Me
I'm passionate about helping people understand that difficult thoughts and feelings aren't problems to be solved, they're part of the human experience. Through my work, I've seen individuals discover that they're stronger than they thought, more connected than they imagined, and more capable of creating meaningful change than they believed possible.
My approach is grounded in science but delivered with warmth. I believe in helping people discover their own path to growth. Whether I'm working with a woman struggling with anxiety, training a therapist in rural Australia, or writing a book, my goal is authentic connection and meaningful growth.
My Work Today
As a clinical psychologist, researcher, and international trainer, I've had the privilege of working with thousands of professionals across the globe. Over the past two decades, I've developed training programs that combine cutting-edge science with practical, heart-centred approaches to help people thrive in their work and lives.
View Louise's Training Portal
Beyond Traditional Delivery
My work extends beyond traditional therapy settings, because I believe in whole of person approaches.Â
I maintain a Buddhist meditation practice, which grounds my work and keeps me connected to the deeper principles of mindfulness and compassion. It informs everything I do.
When possible, I love taking professionals into the Himalayas for mindful adventures—combining the power of nature, mindfulness, and community to create transformative experiences that reshape how we approach our work.
Through the Pearl Lotus Fund, a not-for-profit organisation, I support children in remote communities of Nepal, a reminder that growth and healing happen in community, across cultures, and through acts of compassion.
Mindful AdventuresMy Books and Academic Publications
What Makes You Stronger
My latest book for adults, exploring how to thrive in the face of change and uncertainty
Your Life Your Way
The ultimate teen guide to handling all the pressures and challenges of life—your own way!
The Thriving Adolescent
The skills we impart to young people now will help set the stage for a happy, healthy adulthood.Â
Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life for Teens
Helping young people navigate the challenges of adolescence
Each book reflects my belief that we all have the capacity for growth, connection, and transformation—we just need the right tools and support to unlock that potential.
Louise's Books & Academic PublicationsA Personal Touch
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What keeps me motivated across the years is the privilege of connecting with others and witnessing transformation
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Let's Begin a Professional Connection
I'd love to support your growth. Whether you're looking to deepen your therapeutic skills or enhance your leadership capabilities. I'd love to connect and help.
Explore my training programs, learning community, or explore my free resources. You can become the practitioner you've always envisioned.
With warmth and commitment to your growth,
Louise
Take me to Louise's Training PortalWhether I'm sitting with a person who feels stuck, training a therapist across the globe, or trekking through the Himalayas, I'm always amazed at the resilience and wisdom that emerges when we create space for authentic connection.
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