Dr. Tempest Alexandria McDonald

Hello and Welcome. I am Dr. T. A. Meridian McDonald, PhD, MS, LPC, Counselor and Director of Spectrum For Life Counseling. I am a multiply neurodivergent therapist and published researcher who is passionate about helping all clients, including those with neurodivergent conditions (diagnosed or self-identified), achieve personal growth. While working at Centerstone, a community mental health center, I was the "go-to" therapist for neurodivergent clients (autism, ADHD, developmental conditions) and clients with complex mental health concerns (complex traumas and stressors, dissociative disorders, personality disorders, and more). At Aster Springs Nashville, I was brought on to adapt treatment for eating disorders to better meet the needs of neurodivergent people (autism, ADHD, trauma-survivors, etc). In addition to my private practice, I am also a consultant for the State of Tennessee's Department of Disability and Aging.

Even before gaining my professional counseling license, I designed and implemented supports for neurodivergent adults. At Vanderbilt University Medical Center, I developed and implemented Spectrum Pathways, a multi-component, self-determination program for autistic adults. My research included the adaptation of cognitive behavioral therapy - insomnia for use with autistic adults. At the University of Wisconsin-Madison, I developed and validated the Autism Spectrum Identity Scale and validated scales related to quality of life and stigma for use with autistic adults. As a scientist and educator on neurodivergent conditions for over 20 years, I have helped individuals, families, and community members better understand the value of neurodivergent people and the challenges they face. For a more complete view of my professional background, visit my website https://spectrum-for-life-counseling.com/about-me/

My work on co-occurring conditions (mental and physical health) experienced by neurodivergent people compelled me to bring my knowledge and skills from research settings to directly working with individuals in the community. Compared to the general population, neurodivergent people are more likely to experience trauma and other complex stressors across their lives. Because of this, clients often experience both external and internal conflicts. Further, our society places a high value on "being normal." Many people respond by forcing themselves to fit expectations that do not meet their needs. This increases anxiety and depression and decreases wellbeing, physical health, and the ability to live life according to one's values and goals. As part of my practice, I support clients in self-empowerment which can take many forms. I tailor my practice to help clients identify and meet challenges, leverage their strengths and develop skills to increase their sense of fulfillment in life.

My primary approaches include a mix of internal family systems, acceptance and commitment therapy, social model of disability, critical race/feminist/cultural theories (power dynamics), psycho-dynamic approaches (childhood experiences), bio-psycho-social approaches (biology, psychology, and environment), and existential, mindful, and other contemplative approaches.

Our first session will be focused on getting to know you and your needs (current struggles, personal history, background) and what you would like to accomplish through therapy. We will identify your preferences for therapy and discuss consent, policies, and scheduling. I will also take time to answer any questions you have.