Emily Jeanne Donald

Emily Donald, PhD is a tele-health counselor and avid re-writer of professional statements to make them more authentic and less standoffish. The former is well-developed and the latter, in progress. Emily’s clients seek to address their relationships, and Emily believes that relationships are critical, both in and out of session. Emily is passionate about helping teens navigate adolescence, supporting parents in creating connected caregiver-child relationships, and helping adults build relationships they love. To support this work, Emily has advanced training in online therapy, trauma, and attachment. Emily is also an affirming provider who welcomes all gender, sexual orientation, and relationship structure identities.

Emily uses AEDP, an experiential approach with roots in attachment theory and neurobiology. She also uses Interpersonal Neurobiology to help clients understand their brains. In session, Emily attends carefully to the relationship with her clients; she’s not afraid to address the hard stuff. She incorporates creative arts, brain/body integration, and mindfulness. A trained play therapist, creativity comes naturally to Emily. Clients leave therapy more self-compassionate, with deeper self-understanding, and with strong skills in self-expression and boundary-setting.

Emily's style is authentic, fun, and engaged. She spends time getting to know clients; they set the pace for the work. She is collaborative and openly shares information about her approach, partnering with clients to tailor it to their needs.

Emily is unique among counselors, as she received her PhD from UNC Charlotte and taught counseling prior to returning to full-time practice. She has worked in clinical mental health with diverse clients. Outside of therapy, she loves being outdoors (hiking, camping, running) and just exploring her hometown. She also loves traveling—wherever and whenever possible! Emily offers online sessions only and can work with clients in NC and TN where she's licensed, as well as SC where she has permission to practice.