Macaela West

Macaela West (she/her) is currently pursuing her license to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). She works with individuals from a trauma-informed, strengths-based, and person-centered approach. Macaela aims to partner with client’s on their mental health journey to address areas of concern, improve overall well-being, and achieve identified goals. 

Macaela has experience working with adolescents (ages 5-17), adults, and families focusing on anxiety, depression, stress management, life transitions, trauma and grief. She has 5+ years of experience working in various settings including community programs for youth, child welfare social service agencies, retirement communities, and immigrant and refugee programs. 

Specialties

Macaela feels called to work with adolescents (ages 8-17) and women, specializing in several mental health areas including anxiety, stress management, navigating life transitions and executive functioning.  Macaela is additionally experienced with neurodevelopmental related disorders including but not limited to Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder. 

Macaela is LGBTQIA affirming.

Treatment Modalities

Macaela practices from a person-centered, strengths-based approach when working with clients to help tailor treatment to their specific needs. Macaela understands the importance of viewing each client as an individual with their own unique healing journey.

To achieve this individualized care, she draws from various theories and modalities including systems theory, attachment theory, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solutions-Focused Therapy, mindfulness practice facilitating mind-body connection, and implementation of psycho-education.

Macaela is interested in broadening her modalities to include somatic techniques and self-expression through multiple art forms.

Education

• Bachelor of Social Work, James Madison University, 2020
  o Minor in Family Studies
•  Master of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, 2021
  o Concentration: Clinical Social Work
  o Advanced Standing Program
  o Title IV-E Child Welfare Stipend Program Recipient