Meet McKennly (he/they)

Hi, I’m McKennly!

I am a current student counselor supervisee in the master's of mental health counseling program at Old Dominion University (ODU). I am originally from Baltimore Maryland, but I have since moved over 14 times! I work as a case manager for students of concern at ODU, and I have experience working with individuals who struggle with Anxiety, depression, past & current traumatic experiences, academic difficulties, career development, social anxiety, Autism, and ADHD. 

I am passionate about working with teens (ages 12 and up), college students, and young adults. My undergraduate degree is a B.A. in psychology and creative writing, and I specialize in working with LGBT+ individuals. Counseling can be an incredibly helpful tool for helping tackle all the toxic stress that builds up in our lives. As a counselor, it is my goal to help provide a non-judgmental space where you can bring up any issue. If you would like to get in touch, please send me an email at mmvbcounselingcollective@gmail.com, and we can figure out a meeting time.

My Approach to Therapy:

My approach to counseling is one that is trauma informed, collaborate, and goal-oriented. Every person lives a unique life with different past and present experiences. For each of my clients, I individualize the process to best suit what you want to address. You are the best expert on your life, and I am here to simply help you through the roadblocks you are experiencing.

I can be supportive, help keep you accountable, and offer insight into your issues while you work towards your goal. I use an eclectic approach, focusing on the idea of creating a narrative for yourself.  Every person is different, and I want you to be comfortable in your story while having the tools to help you move forward.

This means that in therapy we will likely:  

  • Explore the interaction between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and work to understand how they are fitting into your presenting concerns.

  • Explore relevant relationships (past and present), uncover patterns, and work to modify relational patterns that no longer serve you. 

  • Identify your strengths and skills that you already possess and use these as building blocks for future success and problem-solving. 

  • Work to understand how various identities you hold (visible and invisible) impact your current concerns.  

  • Focus on clarifying, understanding, and expressing your feelings (as you feel safe and comfortable to do so). 

  • Collaborate on your counseling related goals and work through them in a confidential, safe, and nonjudgmental atmosphere.