About Me

Dr. Carly McDonell is registered as a psychologist in supervised practice with the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO). She holds a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology, a certificate in Youth Justice & Interventions, and a B.A. in Forensic Psychology. Her clinical training has included work with Child and Youth Mental Health, Providence Health Care, WorkBC, and the Chilliwack Youth Health Centre.

Carly has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in individual and group therapy, as well as assessment-based settings. She has also provided crisis intervention services through organizations such as the Vancouver Police Department and Kids Help Phone. She completed her doctoral internship at Adler Community Health Services, working across hospital, primary care, and community-based settings. Carly has also worked with Indigenous communities, providing assessments for Indigenous youth and support for caregivers.

Carly practices from a trauma-informed and attachment-based perspective, incorporating CBT and DBT interventions to support clients with a range of concerns including life transitions, relationship conflicts, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. Carly also supports members of the LGBTQ+ community, and her doctoral research explored sexual assault and affirmative therapies for sexual and gender diverse groups.

In addition to cognitive and behavioural therapies, Carly offers equine-assisted therapy where working with horses can provide a safe, experiential way to explore emotions, build resilience, and promote personal growth. She strives to create a welcoming, non-judgmental space where clients feel understood and empowered to work toward their goals.