LaDonna Kennedy
New to Grow
Hello. My name is LaDonna and I am an LCSW. Welcome, I am glad you're here. Reaching out for help can be scary and I applaud you taking this first step. My goal with therapy is to provide a space where you feel comfortable being yourself, where you can talk openly, feel heard and begin to work through what has been weighing on you. I see therapy as a collaborative effort to find what works for you to feel stronger, more balanced and ultimately, more connected to what matters most to you in a world that often seems "un-connected". I have both a Bachelors and a Masters in Social Work. I have worked in the field of social work for 20 plus years. In my lifetime I have been a daughter, sister, partner, wife, mother (to both human and fur baby) and friend.
Get to know me
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
In our first session, the main focus will be getting to know one another and creating a comfortable space for you to share your story. We will spend some time talking about what brought you to therapy, what you hope to gain from the process, and any expectations or questions you may have. My goal during this time is to listen carefully and understand your experiences. I may ask questions to better understand your situation, the conversation is meant to be supportive and collaborative-not like an interrogation. Most importantly, I want you to feel heard, respected and safe as we begin this journey.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
I have worked in a variety of positions quite literally from the cradle (in adoptions) to the grave (in hospice care). I have a natural curiosity of others and enjoy the collaborative relationship that therapy provides. I utilize many key innovations from several therapy modalities to find the right fit for each client. I believe in utilizing humor, not as a distraction, but as a coping skill.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
Many of the clients I work best with are people navigating through difficult seasons of life. This may include individuals living with chronic illness, those grieving the loss of someone or something important to them, or people going through major life transitions. These experiences can bring uncertainty, emotional pain and a sense of being overwhelmed. I enjoy supporting clients who are looking for a compassionate space to process what they're going through, make meaning of their experiences and find ways to overcome forward with strength and hope. While these are areas I frequently work with, I welcome anyone who feels that this kind of supportive and compassionate approach would be helpful for them. If you're unsure whether I would be a good fit, I'm always happy to talk briefly and help point you in the right direction.
Depression
Grief
Life Transitions
Anxiety
Chronic Illness
Woman
Adults (18 to 64)
Elders (65 and above)
Indiana
Arlo
Location
VirtualMy treatment methods
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
This type of therapy helps people learn how to handle difficult thoughts and emotions without letting them take over their lives. ACT is helpful when learning new ways to respond to experiences with a greater awareness and self compassion. Together, we can work on what truly matters to you with consideration of your values, goals and challenges.
Motivational Interviewing
This style of therapy helps people to explore their own reasoning for a desire to change. What motivates you to change? Together we can look at what may be getting in your way and build confidence in your ability to move past it, closer to your goals.
Biofeedback
This tool helps people to learn how their body responds to stress, emotions and trauma. This is especially helpful for people that often feel anxious, overwhelmed or "stressed". We can learn how to better regulate our physical reactions to emotional issues. This is a collaborative process where we practice these skills together to use them in everyday life.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
This approach helps people to learn practical tools for managing intense emotions, improving relationships and coping with stressful situations. This therapy encompasses many new "skills" , such as mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness and emotional regulations. Coaching and Group work are also utilized. This therapy can effective in helping people feel more balanced and in control of reactions.