Lorraine McDonnell
About me
When your thoughts won’t give you a moment’s peace — when you’re caught in a constant cycle of overthinking, analysing every detail, and imagining the worst-case scenarios — life can feel like an exhausting hamster wheel you can’t step off. You might find yourself stuck in doubt, weighed down by the judgements or expectations of others, or running endless “mental gymnastics” just to get through the day.
Negative thinking can take a real toll on your emotional wellbeing. I understand this not just as an online CBT therapist, but as someone who’s been through anxiety firsthand. I know how heavy it can feel, and I also know change is possible. Together, we can work on breaking that cycle, quieting your mind, and helping you feel more in control of your thoughts and your life.
I tailor therapy to each person’s unique needs, drawing on person-centred, and cognitive behavioural approaches to foster self-understanding and growth. Working with adults from diverse backgrounds, helping them navigate grief, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and more. Above all, our sessions are a space for you to feel heard, respected and empowered
Whether you’re navigating bereavement or loss, feeling overwhelmed by change, struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, shame, or relationship challenges, I’m here to support you. Speaking to someone impartial can bring clarity, help you process your experiences, and give you the tools to move forward.
Professional experience
Additional areas of focus: Addictions, LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger management, Career difficulties, Coaching, Compassion fatigue, ADHD, Aging and geriatric issues, Antisocial personality, Body image, Cancer, Caregiver issues and stress, Chronic pain, illness, and disability, Commitment issues, Communication problems, Control issues, Drug and alcohol addiction, Emptiness, Forgiveness, Guilt and shame, Hospice and end-of-life counseling, Isolation / loneliness, Jealousy, Life purpose, Midlife crisis, Money and financial issues, Mood disorders, Obsessions, compulsions, and OCD, Panic disorder and panic attacks, Post-traumatic stress, Self-love, Sexuality, Social anxiety and phobia, Women's issues, Workplace issues
Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy
Credentials information
BACP Therapist - Registered Member MBACP #397172
Reviews
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Lorraine McDonnell. 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.
I have only had one session before going away for a week. I look forward to moving ahead with further seasions
Written on Dec 04, 2025 after therapy with Lorraine for 2 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety
Lorraine was very friendly, easy to talk to and very helpful in giving me a different and positive way of looking at everything we discussed
Written on Oct 01, 2025 after therapy with Lorraine for 4 weeks on issues concerning relationship issues, and self esteem
Lorraine listens and helps me build my confidence in my decision making.
Written on Jul 09, 2025 after therapy with Lorraine for 2 weeks on issues concerning relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy-related issues, and coping with life changes
Very competent and knowledgeable practioner who actively listens and makes suggestions that demonstrates a great understanding of the issue.
Written on Jun 14, 2025 after therapy with Lorraine for 4 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, grief, and intimacy-related issues
Lorraine has been an amazing support to me the past few weeks and I look forward to the sessions, I've already learnt so much from them and know I'm on the path to feeling better in myself. She is understanding, respectful and caring, I feel so comfortable talking to her about things I don't share with other people
Written on May 12, 2025 after therapy with Lorraine for 2 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety
Lorraine has made a huge difference to how I have viewed a difficult situation which has impacted many aspects of my life. I have felt heard, understood and validated. I feel more confident to move forward and live again. Thank you
Written on May 06, 2025 after therapy with Lorraine for 4 months on issues concerning trauma and abuse, grief, parenting issues, coping with life changes, and compassion fatigue