Family honours Geelong psychologist Chris Mackey’s ‘selfless’ legacy

Chris Mackey’s family and colleagues at his Geelong practice are encouraging people struggling with grief or needing mental health support to reach out for help.

Internationally renowned psychologist Chris Mackey’s legacy will carry on through his family and practice. Photo: Phil Nitchie.

The family and colleagues of beloved Geelong psychologist Chris Mackey are urging anyone struggling with mental health issues or grief to seek support.

Mr Mackey died earlier this month after his car crashed into a tree on Forest Rd in Bellbrae.

The 66-year-old was an internationally renowned psychologist who established his Geelong West private practice, Chris Mackey and Associates, in 1995.

In a statement on Monday, the practice said it was heartbroken by the loss of its leader, who also acted as a mentor to many in the field.

“Chris was not only an exceptional psychologist but also the heart and soul of our practice, a selfless and humble man whose presence brought hope and transformation to countless lives,” it said.

Mr Mackey’s wife, Sue, and three children are all involved in the practice that will soon celebrate its 30th anniversary.

Daughters Joanna and Ellie are training to become psychologists, while son Rowan runs the Psych Spiels and Silver Linings podcast – a platform that spread Mr Mackey’s insights to more than 100 countries.

“To honour Chris’ memory, we encourage anyone struggling with grief or mental health challenges to reach out for support,” the statement said.

“Help is available and Chris would want everyone to know they are never alone.”

Anyone in need of urgent mental health support was urged to contact Lifeline.

Chris Mackey’s family is encouraging anyone who is struggling with grief or mental health challenges to reach out for support. Photo: Phil Nitchie.

In the aftermath of Mr Mackey’s death, the practice is committed to continuing his legacy.

“The practice that Chris and his wife Sue created will continue to operate, striving to deliver the same level of care and dedication to clients that has become their signature,” the statement said.

“All current 10 highly trained psychologists are committed to maintaining the exemplary level of care that Chris trained them to aspire to.”

Mr Mackey was a fellow of the Australian Psychological Society, a prestigious acknowledgment in the field of psychology in Australia.

“Chris recently spoke of his desire to continue working for another decade, motivated by his deep love for his clients and his unwavering belief in the power of healing,” the statement said.

“We, his team, will continue to carry forward his mission and honour his extraordinary life every day.”

Mr Mackey’s extensive career spanned more than 45 years, and included publishing his book The Positive Psychology of Synchronicity and receiving the Australian Allied Health Impact Award in 2019.

He was also a regular Geelong Advertiser columnist and was the resident psychologist on wellbeing program Destination Happiness with Angie Hilton.

Mr Mackey’s funeral will be held in early January.

If you require urgent mental health support, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.

Originally published as Family honours Geelong psychologist Chris Mackey’s ‘selfless’ legacy