Dr. Ivett McDonald

Dr. Ivett McDonald, DMin, LMFT, RN

Hello, my name is Dr. Ivett McDonald, and I bring a deeply holistic and compassionate approach to care, rooted in over 30 years of experience serving individuals and families through every stage of life. I’ve had the honor of walking alongside children, youth, adults, and seniors as they navigate life’s most challenging seasons, offering guidance, hope, and healing.

My background is richly diverse—professionally and personally. I’ve been a registered nurse for over 18 years, primarily in intensive care, where I supported patients and families during moments of profound medical crisis. I’ve also worked extensively in hospice care, helping clients and their loved ones process grief and face end-of-life transitions with dignity and peace.

As a pastor’s wife of over 40 years and a mother to both adopted and biological children, I understand the complexities of marriage, parenting, and blended family life on a personal level. For more than 15 years, I’ve served as a counselor at Emmanuel Church, specializing in marriage and family counseling, anxiety, grief, and loss.

I hold a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from St. Thomas University (2005) and earned my Doctorate in Ministry from Liberty University in 2021. My work integrates clinical knowledge with faith-based principles to support holistic healing for the body, mind, and spirit.

Whether you're struggling with relationship issues, grieving a loss, or navigating a major life change, I’m here to provide a safe, supportive space to help you heal and grow.

My approach to therapy is warm, compassionate, and deeply collaborative. I believe that healing happens in a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel truly seen, heard, and valued. I meet clients where they are—emotionally, spiritually, and relationally—and walk alongside them as they move toward healing, restoration, and personal growth.

I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families who are facing a range of life challenges, including:

• Marital and relationship struggles
• Grief and loss
• Anxiety and emotional overwhelm
• Family transitions and parenting challenges
• Spiritual crises or life purpose concerns

As a licensed marriage and family therapist and registered nurse, I take a holistic view of wellness, integrating emotional, physical, relational, and spiritual dimensions of health. My background in hospice care and intensive care nursing has uniquely equipped me to support clients dealing with chronic illness, caregiving stress, and end-of-life transitions.

I draw from a blend of therapeutic techniques—such as family systems theory, emotionally focused therapy, and cognitive-behavioral strategies—tailored to each client’s unique needs. For those who desire it, I also incorporate faith-based perspectives to deepen the healing process.

Whether you're coming to therapy as an individual, a couple, or a family, my goal is to provide a space where you can find clarity, build resilience, and experience lasting transformation.

Clients who work with me can expect a safe and supportive environment where they are treated with respect, empathy, and understanding. I offer a calming presence and a listening ear, but I also gently challenge clients when needed to help them grow, gain insight, and move forward with purpose.

During our sessions, you can expect to:

• Feel heard and validated without judgment
• Gain clarity about your emotions, relationships, and life circumstances
• Develop practical tools to manage anxiety, grief, stress, or conflict
• Strengthen your relationships through improved communication and deeper connection
• Explore the role of faith and spirituality in your healing journey (if desired)
• Experience greater peace, confidence, and emotional resilience

My goal is to help you not just cope, but thrive—by discovering hope, healing, and a renewed sense of purpose in your life and relationships.