Frances McNamara , LPC

Frances McNamara is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 15 years of experience supporting people across a wide range of mental health concerns. Her clinical history includes work with adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD and extends to more severe and persistent conditions such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Frances blends training in cognitive and dialectical methods with client-centered and emotion-focused therapies to create a tailored, practical approach for each person she works with.

She aims to offer an authentic, present way of engaging that honors each individual’s circumstances and the real challenges they face. Frances emphasizes respect and provides space for clients to process life events, acknowledge both successes and obstacles, and explore the patterns that affect daily functioning and relationships. Her practice centers on helping people build skills, increase insight, and strengthen coping during transitions and crises.

Reaching out for help takes courage, and Frances approaches that decision with empathy and partnership. She seeks to walk alongside clients as they pursue greater stability, resilience, and overall wellness, using evidence-informed strategies and a collaborative therapeutic stance.

Therapeutic Approaches and Virtual Care

Frances McNamara draws on several practical therapeutic approaches to support clients online. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, focuses on identifying and shifting unhelpful thoughts and behaviors to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or DBT, emphasizes emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness skills which can be especially helpful for intense emotions, relationship challenges, and patterns of impulsivity. Client-Centered Therapy prioritizes the client’s own experience and fosters a nonjudgmental, empathetic environment where people can explore values, goals, and personal growth.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Frances collaborates with each person to determine which methods best fit their needs, goals, and preferences, and she adapts techniques as the work progresses to ensure the care remains practical and relevant.

For those who engage with her practice, online sessions can take place via video calls, phone appointments, live chat, or text-based messaging. These options offer flexibility for scheduling, allow continuity of care during life transitions, and make it easier to access licensed professionals from different locations when appropriate.