Anna McDonald (she/her)

I have worked with survivors of sexual violence for many years, and in many ways. I believe that creating safe spaces for survivors of sexual violence to share their stories is vital for survivors to be able to process and heal from their experiences. In the work that I've done with survivors, nearly always, I hear, "I thought it was just me who experienced _____." I want you to know that you're not alone. I will understand your behaviors and believe your experiences.

I have been working with those experiencing domestic violence since I started work as a therapist. I have received extensive training and have many hours of experience supporting those who are currently in, thinking about leaving, leaving, or have already left, unhealthy relationships. I hold a stance of non judgmental support as you contemplate whether to stay in your relationship-- a choice only you can make. I help connect you to resources when and if you're ready to leave.

Childhood abuse is complex and challenging to heal from. It can leave you feeling low self worth, often thinking unkind and harsh things about yourself. It can leave you feeling unable to love and be loved, struggling to find healthy attachments, even as an adult. In therapy, I provide you with unconditional positive regard, with care and support, with a model of how a healthy relationship can be-- so you can experience the emotional repair you need to live your best life.

The arts are therapeutic tools in my world, meaning I draw, write, dance, and paint a lot and love to incorporate these modalities into therapy sessions. In using the arts, you will find that you access different ways of thinking than when you process simply using analytical thought, reason, and conversation (which are also great tools!). By feeling into your experience and expressing it in more than one way, you can discover more about yourself, and learn new skills for managing your emotions.

My core values are centered in feminist, anti-oppression ideals (the type of feminism that includes and honors women of color and trans folks). It means every day, I work with folks like you to unlearn socialization of gender, sexuality, and so many other qualities to find out who you really are, or at least who you want to be today. In therapy, we will talk about and examine how this impacts your relationships, sense of worth, and other ways of being in the world.

Working with trauma requires an eclectic approach-- there are many types of trauma, and many types of survivors, so one approach won't fit everyone. Together we will work together to find what tools work to stabilize your nervous system, how you best process your experiences, and strategies to build your solid, healthy sense of self. I've worked with many survivors of trauma to rebuild their lives. A life of peace and vitality is attainable for you, as well.