Lisa MacDonald, LICSW
I specialize in working with first responders as well as military-connected individuals and their families. I understand that those in public service face unique challenges. High pressure environments and schedules, exposure to trauma, and the weight of responsibility can make seeking help especially difficult. I’m able to use my experience with emergency response and military culture to build genuine trust, set realistic goals, and create a therapeutic relationship that is both supportive and effective.
Complex trauma is a reality for many in public service. Trauma can result from a single distressing event or an accumulation of ongoing stressors over time. While therapy cannot erase the impact of trauma, it can help you regain a sense of control and perspective, and strengthen your resilience. Meaningful therapy can help you think more clearly under pressure, better manage complex emotions, make more grounded and informed decisions, and restore balance in your relationships and daily life.
Professional Affiliations:
- Team Clinician for Bristol Norfolk Critical Incident Team (since 2015)
- Member: International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (since 2016)
- Member: American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress (since 2018)
- Star Behavioral Health Provider (since 2022)
Certifications:
- Critical Incident Stress Management Certification (2015)
- Crisis Intervention Certification (2016)
- Acute Traumatic Stress Management Certification (2016)
- EMDR fully trained (2020)
- Certificate of Specialized Training in Emergency Services (2024)