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My name is Norra MacReady, and I am a licensed marriage & family therapist, licensed in California and Florida (License #105049). My practice is strictly online, and I work mostly with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and issues around confidence and self-esteem.
My approach
In my years of practice, I've discovered that many people find it nearly impossible to give themselves the empathy and compassion that they're able to provide to others. I try to help people discover the roots of their dysfunctional thoughts and learn to be kinder to themselves. I use a variety of techniques, but overall I'd describe my approach as humanistic: helping people to accept and love who they are today. Paradoxically, that's when true change can happen.
My focus
Most of the clients I have worked with are people with anxiety and/or depression; anger management issues; and/or neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD.
My communication style
I try to provide a relaxed and accepting atmosphere in which people can feel comfortable talking about their deepest feelings. I ask lots of questions and then help you find your own answers.
My journey to mental healthcare
Before becoming a therapist, I had a long career as a journalist, specializing in medical topics. I eventually came to realize that many of the skills I used in journalism -- curiosity, talking to many different kinds of people, putting them at their ease, and drawing them out -- would also translate well into a career as a therapist, which had always been a lifelong dream of mine. I finally returned to school to fulfill that dream and consider it one of the best decisions I ever made.
My goals for you
Unlike many therapists, I do not set specific goals with clients. I do ask them what they'd like to achieve in therapy, and I check in periodically to ensure that they feel they are getting what they came for and that they are making progress.
My first session with you
The first session is usually a little longer than the regular sessions. I try to learn more about what the client really wants to achieve; I also ask about their daily life today (family, work, what they do for fun, etc.), but I also ask what their life was like growing up. In addition, I like to learn about their current methods for coping with stress and how effective those have been for them.
