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DO Portrait of DonnaMaria O'Connor

DonnaMaria O'Connor

Compassionate therapist for relationship and family concerns

LMFT California

Experience
20 years in practice
Focus areas
Relationship, Family, Parenting
Approaches
Gottman Method, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Languages
English
Continue with DonnaMaria

About DonnaMaria

DonnaMaria O'Connor is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing in California with about 20 years of clinical experience. She focuses on helping people who are facing relationship strain, parenting stress, and other family challenges.

Background and approach

She helps individuals sort through conflicts related to divorce and separation, blended family adjustments, and caregiver stress. Communication problems and anger are common topics she addresses in sessions.

Domestic violence concerns are also listed among her areas of focus. Her approach starts from the belief that each person knows their own story and brings strengths to therapy.

She works alongside clients to identify what is getting in the way and to develop practical steps for change. Sessions aim to be respectful and empathetic while focusing on real problems and clear goals.

DonnaMaria uses tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, the Gottman Method, and Solution-Focused Therapy to guide her work. That means conversations often include examining patterns, building skills for better interaction, and defining small, achievable changes.

She encourages steady effort and openness to new ways of relating. People who want a collaborative therapist who listens and offers concrete strategies may find her style helpful.

She supports clients through life transitions and relationship work, helping them take manageable steps toward more satisfying day-to-day life.

Using Gottman, CBT, and Solution-Focused Work Online

DonnaMaria uses approaches like the Gottman Method, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy in online sessions. The Gottman Method focuses on improving communication patterns and rebuilding trust through practical exercises and better conflict habits. CBT looks at thoughts and behaviors to find small changes that reduce stress and improve reactions. Solution-Focused Therapy zeroes in on achievable goals and steps, helping clients build momentum through concrete progress.

Choosing the right approach is part of the work together. She will discuss your needs, goals, and preference and recommend techniques that fit your situation. The plan can shift as you try methods and see what helps most, making the process collaborative and goal-oriented.

Online therapy options include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, offering flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. Video calls allow face-to-face interaction for skill-building and exercises, while phone sessions can be a good fit when bandwidth is limited or a shorter check-in is needed. Live chat and text messaging work well for ongoing support, brief problem-solving, and when written reflection helps. These formats make it easier to fit therapy into busy days and different routines.

Frequently asked questions

What kinds of problems does she address?
She helps with relationship issues, family and parenting concerns, anger, and coping with life changes. Additional focus areas include blended family challenges, caregiver stress, communication problems, divorce and separation, and domestic violence.
What is her therapeutic style and approach?
Her style is collaborative and respectful, focusing on empathy and practical steps. She draws on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, the Gottman Method, and Solution-Focused Therapy to build skills and resolve recurring patterns.
How much clinical experience does she have?
She has approximately 20 years of professional experience working with relationship and family concerns. That background shapes a practice grounded in common challenges families face.
What credentials and location should I know about?
She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist - LMFT - licensed in California. Her practice is based in that state.
Can I work with her if I live outside the United States?
Sessions are offered in English and she is not accepting international clients at this time. Services are provided for clients located in supported regions.
Which session formats are available?
She offers video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. These options let clients choose what fits their schedule and communication preferences.
How much do sessions cost?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability and sessions are provided through a subscription model that can be canceled at any time. Exact pricing depends on the client's circumstances.
What are the first steps to start therapy?
Begin by selecting the Start Therapy button, completing a short matching questionnaire, and scheduling according to therapist availability. The matching process helps pair needs and goals with the therapist.

Areas of expertise

Primary focus

Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementCoping with life changes

Additional focus areas

Blended family issuesCaregiver issues and stressCommunication problemsDivorce and separationDomestic violence

Therapeutic approaches

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Gottman MethodSolution-Focused Therapy

Experience

20+ years

Licensed in

California

Languages

English