(he/him)
I’ve always been interested in understanding people — how life experiences, relationships, stress, and challenges shape the way we cope and move through the world. Over time, I realized I found a lot of meaning in helping people work through obstacles, gain perspective, and feel less stuck in the things weighing them down. I know it can be hard to ask for support, especially when you’ve been trying to manage everything on your own. I want clients to feel comfortable being honest about what they’re facing while also working together to find practical, concrete solutions that help life feel more manageable and move them toward meaningful, lasting change. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and my Master’s degree in Social Work with a clinical focus from Capella University. Over the past 14 years, I have worked with children, teens, adults, couples, and families across in-home, outpatient, and telehealth settings. I’ve supported people through some of the most difficult periods of their lives, including severe anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, family conflict, crisis situations, and overwhelming life stress. Working in a variety of settings and with diverse client needs has taught me how to meet people where they are, adapt to challenging situations, and help clients find realistic ways to move forward. I see therapy as a place to be real about what’s not working and figure out what needs to change. Some clients come in feeling emotionally exhausted, disconnected in relationships, overwhelmed by responsibilities, or frustrated by patterns they can’t seem to break. My role is to help people make sense of what they’re experiencing, develop practical tools that actually fit their lives, and regain a stronger sense of control, stability, and confidence moving forward.
The first session is really just a conversation. We’ll talk about what’s been going on, what led you to reach out, and what you’d like to get out of therapy. It’s also a chance for you to get a feel for me and decide whether working together feels like a good fit. There’s no pressure to have everything figured out — just an opportunity to talk openly and see where we can go from there.
My training is as a generalist clinical social worker, which means I draw from a range of evidence-based modalities and tailor our work to your unique needs rather than using a one-size-fits-all method. My approach is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and a deep respect for each person’s unique experiences. I view you as being the expert on your life, so my job isn’t to give you the answers, it’s to guide and assist you in discovering the answers that are right for you. I focus on identifying and building on your existing abilities, resilience, and resources—not just addressing challenges. I also look at things through a person-in-environment lens, meaning we look not only at what’s happening internally for you, but also how your relationships, environment, and life circumstances are shaping your experience.
I am best positioned to serve clients who are seeking both understanding and actionable guidance in their personal growth or mental health journey. I work with people who face recurring patterns or challenges—whether it’s anxiety, stress, relationship struggles, self-doubt, or major life transitions—and want to understand why these patterns occur and how to shift them. I’m most effective with individuals who are curious and open to exploring their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and who value reflection as a pathway to change. My approach is particularly helpful for those who want to move beyond simply talking about their feelings, to also develop practical tools for coping, problem-solving, and communicating more effectively. I support clients navigating internal conflict or questions about identity, purpose, and self-esteem, helping them gain clarity and confidence in their choices. I am particularly well suited to serve youth and parents, clients who are motivated to change, and those in need of who genuinely want to be there to support them.
Other specialties
I identify as
Strength-Based
Clinical application of the broader framework of positive psychology, we will seek to identify. highlight, and emphasize your individual strengths instead of focusing on pathology and deficits, using these as the foundational building blocks for achieving your treatment goals and overcoming challenges
Positive Psychology
Taking pieces of this research-based theoretical framework, rather than only focusing on shortcomings and fixing deficits, emphasis is placed on promoting well-being by cultivating positive emotions, engagement, relationships, and meaning.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Used to deepen an understanding of the connection between thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. With this understanding, thinking patterns are identified, challenged, and modified, while effective coping skills are built, resulting in meaningful and lasting change.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
Utilized to create a supportive, non-judgemental, accepting environment, where you are seen as the expert on your own life, and the therapeutic process is one of non-authoratative, explorative collaboration that works to empower the client, building self confidence and a sense of identity as solutions are found and discoveries are made at their own pace.
Family Therapy
I see families as interconnected systems, where each person’s actions and feelings shape the whole. In therapy, I focus on empowering each member to recognize their strengths while improving communication and understanding. I guide, observe, and facilitate, helping families notice patterns, resolve conflicts, and strengthen relationships. Together, we work to build empathy, clearer boundaries, healthier roles, and resilience, so families can navigate challenges with confidence and stay connected. By improving how family members communicate and interact, we create lasting positive change that benefits everyone.
4 ratings with written reviews
May 15, 2026
He really listens and understands. I feel incredibly supported and uplifted after each session. I've never felt rushed and always feel he takes the time to truly work/talk through things with me. Also allows me to take part in our goals towards the future.
May 12, 2026
I really can’t explain it but I felt very comfortable and confident speaking to Donald. He gave me excellent feedback and it helped a lot
May 5, 2026
I’ve only had the meet and greet session so far however I’m going to book my follow up now . Donald is open minded , welcoming , a great listener , attentive , has good memory , intentional and more.