Meghan McDonald (She/her)

My clinical framework incorporates concepts from Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory, and neuroscience as practiced by The Mindsight Institute. Through my experience, I have found that our responses to stress are frequently rooted in an inherent desire for self-preservation and we're longing for genuine human connection. In simpler terms, we often engage in certain behaviors to feel loved, safe, and truly seen by those around us. Our relational patterns and habits tend to develop as a means to establish a sense of steadiness and to effectively meet our emotional and psychological needs. However, there are instances when what was once an adaptive behavior eventually becomes maladaptive, leading clients to seek my guidance in finding meaningful change. The beginning of this transformative process starts with cultivating self-awareness and noticing the aspects of our lives that are no longer working effectively.

I approach my work with clients with the assumption that we're all doing the best we can. We often want more fulfillment, and a deeper sense of connection, though we don't know how to get there. This is where therapy can be transformative. Together, we'll create a new frame for self-understanding and discover tools to find harmony and balance in everyday life. My eclectic therapeutic approach incorporates a diverse range of frameworks drawn from various therapeutic modalities, including Relational Therapy, Family Systems Theory, Narrative Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Additionally, I utilize valuable tools and techniques from the Intimacy From the Inside Out (IFIO) program, as well as the PEERS program developed at the Semel Institute, UCLA, to enhance the therapeutic experience for individuals and families.