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Lora McDonald

Empathetic Listener, Cheerleader, Advocate, Compassionate Healer, Resilience Builder
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Areas of Expertise

Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Perinatal/Postpartum Mood Disorders, Women's Issues, LGBTQ+, and Life Transitions.​

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Approach

Eclectic, Person-Centered, Feminist, Collaborative, Psychoanalytical, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance

 

My approach centers authenticity, collaboration, and compassion as we explore your life story. I understand that a multitude of experiences, positive and negative, have contributed to our paths crossing and I believe in approaching them all with openness and understanding. My goal is to empower you in making changes you wish to see in your life, so I will cheer you on and challenge you in taking steps toward growth and healing.

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I blend a variety of therapeutic approaches and tailor my approach to best meet your needs. I am rooted in cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness principles, so I believe that developing deeper awareness of your mind’s inner workings allows us to more intentionally shift patterns you wish to see changed. I work with individuals and couples, and I welcome those with diverse backgrounds and identities. My specialties are in women’s issues, perinatal mental health, life transitions, anxiety, and relationship challenges. I aspire to provide a safe and supportive space to become the best version of yourself.

ABOUT

Cat Mom, Traveler, Coffee Lover, Amateur Crocheter

I approach life with a natural curiosity which is why I love exploring, traveling, and I resonate with the idea of lifelong learning. You can often find me reading three books at once, binge-listening to podcasts, snuggling with my cats, or trying (mostly unsuccessfully) to teach myself how to read crochet patterns. As a recovering perfectionist, I understand how hard it is to face challenges with self-compassion but I have also felt how healing it can be to do so. I am happy to support, challenge, and advocate for you until you are ready to take on that role for yourself.

Professional Background

Lora McDonald is a Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) in the state of West Virginia. She specializes in women’s issues, perinatal mental health, trauma, and relationship challenges. Lora is Perinatal Mental Health Certified (PMH-C) and a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP). Prior to working for Appalachian Counseling Center, she provided supportive outreach and referrals to behavioral health services within an OB/GYN setting. She received dual Masters of Arts in Social Work and Public Administration from West Virginia University. She also received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Communication Studies and Human Services from West Virginia University. Lora is currently under supervision as she works to obtain her independent social work licensure.

Licenses

  • Licensed Graduate Social Worker

    • West Virginia

Certifications

  • Perinatal Mental Health Certified (PMH-C)

    • Postpartum Support International​

  • Certified Trauma Professional  (CTP)​​​

Professional organizations

  • National Association of Social Workers 

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