Hi! My name is Leahanna McDonald and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)! I received my Masters from the University of Southern Indiana and have been serving children and families since 2014. I support children, teens, and caregivers during high stressors of life transitions such as divorce, separation, parenting conflicts, high conflict divorce, custody changes, and changes in family dynamics.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
At our first session, we will spend time getting to know each other and you get a chance to tell your story. I seek to clarify and understand how you are feeling and how we can work together to reach your goals. We will plan to discuss a diagnosis, treatment planning options, and my clinical recommendation for your care.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
The root of my care truly is my ability to empathize with my clients. I am passionate about the population I serve because I have sat in their seats and have my own story. I understand how hard it can be and I understand that healing is possible. I am also knowledgable and have extensive training working along side caregivers, children, and families in different settings from residential support to out-patient therapy.
About Leahanna McDonald
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have been formally trained to work with children and adults utilizing the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) modality. I use this intervention to support anxiety, depression, and life stressors. The goal is to support the client in recognizing their own circle of control and empowerment by using the skills.
Parent-Child Interaction (PCIT)
PCIT is a leg of attachment theory much like other parent-child interventions such as parent management training. I use the theories and skills of PCIT in my practice to support symptom reduction and caregiver empowerment in children who are showing behavioral concerns and parents who need direction. I use PCIT interventions and skills to support parents through coaching and tangible skills so they can interact with and provide a nurturing and boundary set environment for their children.
Strength-Based
Every intervention I use is rooted in a strength-based approach. While there are many elements of life that are not in our clients control, every client possess strengths and it is important to recognize and use them to their benefit.
Trauma-Focused CBT
I use TF-CBT with teens and children in a more structured format to support children who have experienced a trauma in their life. TF-CBT allows space for strength building, skill building, and safety to tell their story.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
DBT falls under the CBT umbrella and is a targeted approach I use with clients who may have intense emotions or situations that require closer monitoring and targeted skills. DBT skills can be interwoven in care and can be modulated independently. DBT can be used with children and adults.