Richard McDonald, LCMHC

Richard McDonald combines formal training in economics and mental health with practical experience to support people facing a range of life challenges. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics and a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling, and he is licensed by the state of North Carolina as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) - a credential that authorizes practice in clinical counseling - and as a Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS). He is also nationally certified in trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which reflects additional training in treating trauma-related concerns.

Over more than two decades in human services and four years specifically providing counseling, he has worked with individuals coping with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, parenting struggles, ADHD, career concerns, and the effects of physical trauma or emotional abuse. He is an active member of professional organizations including the American Counseling Association, the National Board for Certified Counselors, and the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors.

Richard uses a range of evidence-informed approaches and adapts them to each person he works with. His toolkit includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and he develops treatment plans and session dialogue that reflect each client’s needs and goals. These methods are commonly applied to concerns such as stress, anxiety, depression, major life adjustments, and addiction.

Seeking help is often the first step toward change, and Richard approaches that step with support and practical guidance. He aims to empower people as they move toward more fulfilling and sustainable outcomes, and he looks forward to the opportunity to work with those who are ready to begin that process.