Dana McInvale, LCSW-S
I believe therapy is most effective when children feel understood, supported, and empowered to build on the strengths they already have. My goal is to create a safe, collaborative environment where children and adolescents feel heard, valued, and confident as they learn to navigate life’s challenges. I became a therapist because I am passionate about helping young people build resilience and develop skills that support their emotional well-being throughout their lives. My experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, behavioral health needs, and diverse communication styles has strengthened my commitment to providing individualized, compassionate care. I believe meaningful change happens when caregivers and support systems are included in the therapeutic process, creating consistency and support beyond the therapy room. It is a privilege to partner with families as children grow, heal, and discover their strengths.
My Therapeutic Approach
1. Theoretical Orientation
My work is grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). These evidence-based approaches help children and adolescents better understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while developing healthy coping strategies and psychological flexibility.
2. Therapy Style
I bring a warm, collaborative, and person-centered approach to therapy. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where children feel comfortable expressing themselves while working together with caregivers to achieve meaningful goals.
3. Change Process
I believe lasting change occurs when children gain insight into their emotions, build practical coping skills, and recognize the strengths they already possess. Through consistent support and collaboration with families, children can develop confidence, resilience, and healthier ways of responding to life’s challenges.
4. Techniques & Modalities
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), emotional regulation strategies, mindfulness, coping skills development, behavioral interventions, and strengths-based approaches. Therapy is always tailored to each child’s developmental level, communication style, and individual needs.
Clinical Focus:
Populations Served
- Children
- Adolescents
- Families/Caregivers
Areas of Focus
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Stress
- Emotional regulation
- Self-esteem concerns
- Behavioral challenges
- Life transitions
- Intellectual and developmental disabilities
- Behavioral health concerns
I believe every child already possesses unique strengths, and therapy is about helping them discover, build upon, and confidently use those strengths to navigate life's challenges.
Education and Training
- Education
- Master of Social Work, Keuka College
- Bachelor of Science, Rehabilitation and Human Services, Penn State University
- Advanced Training
- Experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, behavioral health needs, and diverse communication styles.
Availability: In person Wednesday and Thursday in our Ashburn office.
Outside the Office:
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