Richard McDonald, LCMHC

Richard McDonald is a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) based in North Carolina who helps people facing stress, anxiety, addictions, depression, and grief. He also supports those dealing with anger, self-esteem struggles, relationship and family concerns, trauma and abuse, and big life changes. He uses straightforward conversation and practical skills to guide people toward clearer choices and healthier routines.

He holds a master's degree in mental health counseling and has worked in human services for many years. His counseling experience spans multiple settings and includes helping people recover from physical and emotional trauma. He draws on several approaches to fit each person’s needs rather than using one fixed method.

In sessions he focuses on concrete tools people can use between meetings. He uses elements from cognitive behavioral approaches to notice patterns of thinking and behavior. He adds mindfulness and acceptance ideas to help people respond differently when emotions feel overwhelming.

He also uses client-centered conversation to make space for what matters most to each person. Motivational interviewing techniques are part of his work when people are weighing change around substance use or other habits. Treatment plans are shaped together so goals stay practical and realistic.

Richard brings five years of counseling experience as an LCMHC and a broader background in related human services. He speaks English and practices in North Carolina. To begin, prospective clients complete a short questionnaire and schedule based on availability.

Therapeutic approaches and how they work online

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people notice difficult thoughts and feelings without getting ruled by them, and then take small steps toward values-based goals. It can be useful for anxiety, depression, and making life changes. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying thought and behavior patterns that keep problems going and teaching tools to shift them, which is often helpful for anxiety, mood difficulties, and addictive behaviors. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes a respectful, nonjudgmental conversation where the person sets the pace and priorities, helping people feel heard and understood while they consider change.

Finding the right approach is part of the process. The therapist collaborates with each person to choose which methods to emphasize based on needs, goals, and personal preferences. Plans are adjusted over time if something isn't working or if priorities change.

Practical benefits of online work include easier fitting of sessions into a busy week, reduced need to travel, and options for shorter check-ins when schedules are tight. Specific session formats are not listed here, so confirm available options before booking to match what you need. Online sessions can still focus on skill practice, thought tracking, and mindfulness exercises to support recovery from addiction, manage anxiety, and navigate major life changes.