The Therapeutic Approach Much of the therapeutic work is Cognitive Behavioral in nature, drawing on the works of Beck, Ellis, Meichenbaum and others. However, because our lives and hence our problems and issues do not take place in a vacuum, there is a psychodynamic component (both personal and interpersonal) which often needs to be addressed. In other words, although much of the work takes place in the "here and now", there are times when the therapy goes back to the "there and then".
Relationships are an important part of life, and past relationships will impact on current and future relationships. At times homework or journaling assignments may be part of the work of therapy, in addition to "talk therapy". Therapy can be challenging and difficult work at times, so remember: It only takes one psychologist to change a light bulb, but that light bulb has to want to change! If you come to therapy to change other people, this approach will not work; you can only change yourself and/or how you respond/react to others. 1. Your first step will be to "allow" yourself to ask for and accept help and guidance when situations become overwhelmimg. 2. After identification of your strengths and weaknesses, you will learn to work from your strengths in order for forward movement to occur. 3. Your particular way of thinking about events and people will be examined, and eventually rational thoughts will replace irrational ones as issues are reframed in less threatening and more rational ways. It is important to note here that both thoughts and feelings (emotions) accompany actions. 4. You will learn new and more adaptive coping strategies and relaxation techniques. These will enable you to not only participate in the process, but to regain a sense of control over your life. 5. You will always participate in the formulation of your treatment plan, and your commitment to the process will be essential for progress.
Dr. McDonald specializes in * Adjustment Disorders
* Changes in Physical Status or Mood
* Relationship Counseling
* Family Problems, including Parenting Issues
* Depression
* Anxiety
* Bereavement
* Divorce
* Chronic Physical Illness and Pain
* Aging and Life Transition Issues
* Stress and Related Disorders
* Substance Dependence
* Abuse and Trauma
Dr. McDonald does not discriminate based upon race, religion, ethnicity, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation or source of payment in provision of services. For more information please go to Dr. McDonald's website or email her.
Dr. McDonald is a licensed clinical psychologist and received both her masters and doctoral (psychology) degrees from the University of Pittsburgh. She also received education and training at Ohio University and the University of Leuven (Belgium). Her clinical internship was completed at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh and her research has been published internationally. Dr. McDonald has additional training with trauma, geriatric, and substance dependent dual diagnosis populations, plus extensive neuropsychological experience. She works with adult populations, including college students. Dr. McDonald is a frequent contributor to the IPPF Quarterly. Look for her features in the Psychologically Speaking section of our newsletter.
|
Psychologically Speaking 
