Heather McQuay , MD, LCSW-C

Heather McQuay is a Maryland-based clinician with two decades of experience in the human services field and more than ten years working as a licensed therapist. She holds an MD, which indicates medical training, and is an LCSW-C, which stands for Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical, a credential for clinical social work practice in Maryland. Her background includes work with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, mood disorders, and varied trauma histories arising in both childhood and adulthood.

Heather practices from a person-centered perspective that prioritizes respect, collaboration, and the client’s own goals. She meets people where they are and works together with them to set realistic, personally meaningful objectives. Her toolbox includes cognitive behavioral therapy along with strength-based, solution-focused techniques and motivational interviewing; she adapts methods to fit an individual’s needs rather than applying a single model to everyone.

Skilled in supporting people through life changes, relationship difficulties, parenting and family challenges, and complex emotional concerns, Heather emphasizes tailored care that builds self-understanding and resilience. Her approach is focused on empowerment, practical strategies, and steady support for those navigating difficult transitions or long-standing patterns of distress.

Therapeutic Approaches for Online Care

Heather McQuay draws on several well-established approaches to guide online sessions. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, or ACT, helps people learn to accept difficult thoughts and feelings while clarifying values and taking action toward a meaningful life - it is often useful for anxiety, avoidance, and life transitions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, focuses on identifying and shifting unhelpful thoughts and behaviors through practical exercises and skill building - it is effective for mood concerns, anxiety, and many daily coping challenges. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes empathy, respect, and collaboration so the person feels heard and empowered to explore their own solutions - this approach supports self-esteem, relationship issues, and personal growth.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Heather works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods best fit their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting strategies as progress unfolds.

Online therapy offers flexibility in how sessions happen - video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging allow therapy to fit into busy lives and reach people who may have barriers to in-person care. These options make it easier to access ongoing support and to practice skills between sessions while maintaining a consistent therapeutic relationship with a licensed professional.