Danielle McDonald , LCSW

Danielle McDonald is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who brings 17 years of experience to her therapeutic practice near Buffalo, New York. She earned her master s degree from the University at Buffalo School of Social Work in 2006 and has worked across inpatient and outpatient mental health settings as well as in substance abuse counseling, allowing her to support children, teenagers, young adults, and adults through a wide range of concerns.

Her clinical experience includes work with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, self-esteem and career challenges, substance use issues, grief, trauma, parenting and blended family concerns, and the stress of major life changes. Danielle emphasizes the therapeutic relationship as a key driver of change, and she approaches therapy with a collaborative, easygoing style rooted in empathy, attentive listening, and a touch of humor. Clients have noted her mindful listening, compassion, and engaging manner.

In practice she often draws on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client-Centered approaches, and she adapts techniques to fit each person s needs and goals. Danielle offers flexible modes of communication and will discuss goals and preferences at the start of counseling to develop a plan together. She values practical steps toward growth and supports clients as they adjust to new normals and work toward meaningful change.

Therapeutic Approaches for Online Care

Danielle integrates Client-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) into her online work. Client-Centered Therapy focuses on building a trusting, nonjudgmental relationship and helping clients explore their thoughts and feelings at their own pace - this approach supports issues like self-esteem, relationship concerns, and life transitions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy breaks down unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns into manageable parts and teaches practical skills to manage anxiety, depression, and stress-related problems.

She also incorporates mindfulness-informed techniques to help clients develop present-moment awareness and coping strategies for stress and emotion regulation. Determining the best therapeutic approach is a collaborative process; Danielle works with each person to identify goals, try different techniques, and adjust the plan based on needs, preferences, and progress.

Online therapy with Danielle can take place by video call, phone session, live chat, or text-based messaging, offering flexibility for busy schedules and varied comfort levels. These options make it easier to maintain continuity of care, attend sessions from home or work, and choose the communication style that fits best with daily life while working with a licensed professional.