I began my career as a social worker as a child advocating for the "underdogs", and as I grew I became inspired to work in the mental health field supporting others. I received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Florida State University in 2012 and a Masters in Social Work at Florida International University in 2015. Since then, I have worked with historically marginalized groups, such as Black and Brown communities, people with cognitive disabilities, people who identify as LGBTQAI+, and other vulnerable populations.
My experience working as a therapist in communities, schools, and homes led me to increase my knowledge about trauma and blend my interests in art and movement in my therapeutic approaches. I am certified in Trauma Focused CBT. I use an eclectic approach to therapy as each individual has different mental health needs. I combine art therapy techniques, with Cognitive Behavioral interventions, using a solution-focused and client-centered approach.
I am here for those that find themselves constantly "out of the box".
Hope to hear from you soon!
Additional areas of focus: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Parenting issues, Anger management, Bipolar disorder, Coping with life changes, ADHD, Abandonment, Attachment issues, Autism and Asperger Syndrome, Body image, Family of origin issues, Family problems, Gender dysphoria, Hospice and end-of-life counseling, Immigration issues, Isolation / loneliness, Mood disorders, Multicultural concerns, Post-traumatic stress, Pregnancy and childbirth, Prejudice and discrimination, Self-love, Sexuality, Social anxiety and phobia, Women's issues, Young adult issues
Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy
FL LCSW SW15984
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Anika McDonald. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Anika is wonderful at her job. She has helped me grow so much. The activities during the session and "homework" have definitely improved my mood. I have learned many skills to use outside of therapy. I've recommended all my friends to therapy because of the positive impact I have seen in my everyday life.
Written on Sep 27, 2021 after therapy with Anika for 4 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, self esteem, and adhd
Great help, already in the first session.
Written on Jul 27, 2021 after therapy with Anika for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, lgbt, trauma and abuse, self esteem, and compassion fatigue
I had my first session with Anika and was pleasantly surprised how easily I opened up to her. She was able to lead the conversation and get me to speak openly about my issues. She listened to me when I spoke and had some really good advice for me and I didn't feel time pressured at all. I am feeling hopeful for the first time in a long time thanks to her!
Written on Jul 02, 2021 after therapy with Anika for 2 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, and self esteem
I feel supported seen and heard with Anika. She’s such a wonderful person to talk to. I feel comfortable sharing my deepest fears and anxieties with her
Written on May 28, 2021 after therapy with Anika for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, sleeping disorders, self esteem, and adhd
Anika, shows great empathy and understanding for my situation and offered constructive advise not just for me personally but also in my relationship
Written on May 25, 2021 after therapy with Anika for 2 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, and intimacy-related issues