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Headshot of Nicole McDonald, LCSW

Nicole McDonald

Therapist
6 years of experience
  • Virtual
  • Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma
  • Individual therapy

Great to meet you!

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who provides a warm, down to earth space where you can feel comfortable being yourself. I have over 5 years experience providing counseling to individuals navigating trauma, including first responder trauma, along with individuals with substance use concerns and the stress that comes with navigating life's challenges.

My approach to therapy

I understand that reaching out for support isn't always easy, and I strive to meet you with empathy, respect and without judgement.

My approach to therapy is collaborative and tailored to meet your needs, whether that means processing difficult experiences, building coping skills, or simply having a space where you can talk openly and feel understood, I will be there to support you.

In sessions I will draw from evidence based approaches while keeping our work grounded in real, human connection. My goal is to help you feel more supported, gain insight, and move toward lasting change at your own pace.

What you can expect from me

Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and it's completely normal to feel a mix of emotions going into your first session. My goal is to make that first session feel as comfortable and as low-pressure as possible.

In our first session we will spend time getting to know each other. I will ask a few questions about what is bringing you in, your background, and what you are looking to get out of therapy. We will also talk about what working together may look like and you will have space to ask any questions you may have. Finally, we will set some goals for treatment and will start working, at your pace, toward those goals.

About me

  • I identify as
    Caucasian, Cisgender Woman
  • My style is
    Warm, Solution Oriented, Empowering

Qualification and insurance

  • Years of experience
    6 years of experience
  • Training
    MSW (Master of Social Work) at University at Buffalo State University of New York
  • License type
    LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) (New York)
  • Licensed in
  • Insurance accepted
    Aetna, Carelon Behavioral Health, Cigna, Highmark BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York, Highmark BlueShield of Northeastern New York, Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Jersey, Independence Blue Cross Pennsylvania - Virtual National Network

Cost

Care details

  • Top specialties
    Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma
  • More specialties
    Bipolar disorder, Stress management, Grief or loss, PTSD
  • Therapy methods
    Problem-Solving Therapy (PST), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Trauma Focused CBT, Strength-Based, Motivational Interviewing, Prolonged Exposure (PE), Behavior Modification, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Behavioral Activation (BA)
  • Care types
    Individual therapy
  • Ages served
    Adults, Adolescents
  • Languages
    English