Holly McDonald

Holly McDonald, MSW, RSW, M Ed, Psychology has been a therapist for the past 15 years.  She has been doing front-line work in the mental health; addiction; and violence fields for over 20 years.  Holly retired early from being a Probation and Parole officer a few years ago so she could devote more time to her therapy practise.  Holly practices mental health and well-being techniques each day to keep her mind and body healthy.

Holly believes that Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Self-Acceptance are key ingredients in recovering from trauma, anxiety, and depression.  Holly is also a yoga instructor who helps clients to become more “mindful” of their body and racing thoughts through breath work, affirmations, and visualizations.  “There is definitely a mind/body connection and calming the body helps to calm the mind and vise versa. “

Holly has 2 Master’s Degrees, a Certificate in Addiction Studies and 3 Yoga Certifications including one for First Responder’s.  She is also familiar with the 12 Step Program philosophy.  While in Corrections she was part of a CISM activation team who helped peers, who had been through a critical incident to debrief in a safe environment.

Holly is passionate about helping those who have seen and heard extraordinary events that the average worker does not experience.  She is also a firm believer in giving ourselves permission to take care of ourselves through daily self-care and reaching out to others and talking about our lives.  We can live positive and fulfilling lives after being exposed directly or indirectly with Trauma.