McKenna Downing
Pre-Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist - MFTC
I fell in love with the field of Marriage and Family Therapy as soon as I was introduced to it in an undergraduate class. Systems theory is a beautiful approach that considers each person’s complicated life and relationships. After completing my bachelor’s degree, I worked at a non-profit for three years as a personal care aide and in the case management of individuals with developmental disabilities. The populations I served ranged from 12 to 76-year-olds who were diagnosed with various developmental disabilities and psychiatric disorders. This experience changed my life and perspective. I left this with the understanding that no behavior or action occurs within a vacuum. I saw firsthand how important social support networks, personal agency, and resources are. Strong and healthy connections with others are critical to creating growth and effective, lasting change, no matter your background.
As a graduate student, I had the opportunity to use play therapy with my clients. Play therapy is a proven model that can increase connection and empower children and families to grow. I use play therapeutic techniques alongside the solution-focused model’s strength-based approaches in sessions. These approaches allow me to walk beside children, couples, and individuals as they move forward toward a more connected and brighter future.
Skills and Expertise
Adult
Child or Adolescent
Couples therapy
Couple Counseling
Identity Issues
Teens
Treatment Orientation
Family/Marital Therapy
Solution Focused Therapy
Play Therapy
Modality
Children
Family
Couples
Individuals