Dana McPherson, LCSW

Dana McPherson is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with four years of professional experience, practicing in Oregon and California. As an LCSW she brings training in assessment and psychotherapy to help people manage emotional challenges and navigate major life transitions.

Dana works with a broad range of concerns including stress and anxiety, relationship and family conflicts, trauma and abuse, self-esteem struggles, grief, depression, and the practical strains of caregiving and aging. She supports clients across the lifespan, from teens through seniors, and also focuses on issues such as attachment, body image, codependency, and coping with illness.

Her approach emphasizes respect, sensitivity, and individualization - she aims to meet each person where they are and adapts sessions and treatment plans to fit unique needs and goals. Dana acknowledges that seeking change takes courage and offers steady support for people seeking more fulfilling relationships, relief from feeling stuck, or ways to resolve the past. She does not provide couples therapy. Because appointment times can be limited, prospective clients should be mindful of scheduling; three missed appointments without notice may result in termination of services. Dana is currently accepting international clients and conducts sessions via remote formats.

Therapeutic approaches and how they work online

Client-Centered Therapy focuses on creating a respectful, nonjudgmental space where the therapist follows the client's lead and supports self-discovery and personal growth. This approach is often helpful for improving self-esteem, navigating life changes, and repairing relationships.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, helps people identify and shift unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. It is commonly used to address anxiety, depression, stress, and practical problem solving through structured strategies and skill-building.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or DBT, emphasizes emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. DBT tools can assist people who experience intense emotions or relationship volatility by teaching concrete skills for managing reactions and improving communication.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Dana will work with each person to determine which methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences, and she adapts the plan as progress unfolds. Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions are available by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging - making it easier to fit care into busy schedules, to continue work across distances, and to maintain consistency in treatment when in-person visits are difficult.