Mr. John McDonald, LISW

(he/him)
Preferred Name: John

EMDR Certified Therapist

Online Therapy

About Me

I am grateful to have the opportunity to explore challenges people are experiencing and help them feel empowered to overcome these. I have experience and enjoy working with people who may experience the world through a unique lense and those who may have a history of adverse life experiences. The typical client I work with is an adolescent or adult and may struggle with internalizing emotions and get easily overstimulated, have lower self-esteem, or challenges with social interaction. They may feel misunderstood by important people in their lives. My approach in therapy draws from various modalities and often involves building self awareness and is informed by the impact of trauma and what is helpful for healing. I look to find ways to get creative and have fun in the process! My support extends to people of diverse backgrounds and experiences. I look forward to meeting with you and working as a team at whatever step you are on in your healing journey.

Education & Experience

I worked as an in-home counselor before receiving my Masters in Social Work from the University of Iowa. Since then I have worked as a therapist at a residential group home and then an outpatient therapist, first at a large social services agency, and currently at a private group practice in Central Iowa.

Professional & Volunteer Affiliations

Emdria

Specialty Area

  • Abuse/Neglect
  • Adoption
  • Anxiety/Panic Attacks
  • Attachment Disorders
  • Autism Spectrum
  • Chronic Pain
  • Depression
  • Mood Disorders
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders
  • Personality Disorders
  • Phobias
  • Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Stress Management
  • Traumatic Incident

Population Served

  • Adolescents (13-17)
  • Adults
  • Seniors

Language

  • English

Insurance

  • BlueCross BlueShield
  • Medicaid