Donald McRae, LPC, LCMHC

Donald McRae is a licensed counselor with 25 years of clinical experience who combines practical skills with a compassionate approach to help clients pursue meaningful change. He holds the LPC and the LCMHC credentials - Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor - which indicate formal training and state licensure to provide counseling and mental health care. Over his career he has provided services in a variety of settings, including mental health clinics, military bases, and not-for-profit agencies, working with individuals, couples, and families as well as leading psychotherapy groups.

Donald draws on a range of evidence-informed methods, including cognitive behavioral approaches, dialectical behavior techniques, trauma-focused interventions, mindfulness practices, acceptance and commitment strategies, and motivational interviewing. He blends these tools to match each person’s goals and circumstances, emphasizing practical skills, emotional insight, and behavioral change. He describes his style as nonjudgmental, empathetic, and compassionate, and he values the courage it takes to engage in therapy and the commitment required to work toward new ways of living.

Clients who engage with Donald can expect a collaborative process that honors their efforts and focuses on achievable steps toward better functioning, healthier relationships, and greater emotional balance.

Therapeutic approaches and online care tailored to you

Donald draws on cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy to guide online work in practical, skills-based ways. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients identify and shift unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns to reduce symptoms and improve daily functioning. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) focuses on emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, and is useful for managing intense emotions and relationship challenges.

He also uses elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which emphasizes clarifying values and taking committed action even when difficult thoughts or feelings are present. These approaches are presented in clear, accessible language and tailored to the issues a person brings to therapy, such as anxiety, trauma, relationship concerns, or coping with life changes.

Finding the right approach is part of the work together - Donald collaborates with each client to explore which methods fit their goals, preferences, and circumstances. Online therapy offers flexibility and accessibility through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, making it easier to schedule sessions around work, caregiving, and other commitments. Licensed professionals can adapt therapeutic techniques to these formats so clients can make steady progress from wherever they are.