ABOUT HANNAH DONNER,
I have always enjoyed helping and working to understand others. I originally studied education, hoping that I would be a teacher and could help and understand my students in the classroom. However, I took a counseling class during my undergraduate years at The College of New Jersey, and quickly realized that I wanted to work in a therapeutic setting. I went on to obtain my Masters of Education in Counseling Psychology from Temple University.
During my undergraduate studies, I founded a program at a local hospital called “Paint It Forward,” where we painted ceiling tiles with inspirational messages in order to promote positive mental health for children in the hospital. I was able to share my own mental health journey and help to bring smiles to the local children’s hospital. This experience taught me to advocate for myself and others, and allowed me to create a program that I was truly passionate about.
Outside of my therapeutic work, I enjoy baking, reading, hiking, doing yoga, and skiing! I love being outdoors with my pets and visiting new places with friends and family.
APPROACH TO THERAPY
I began my counseling career at a domestic violence shelter, providing long term and crisis counseling to survivors of domestic abuse. Aside from the shelter, I have worked with clients in both school settings and individual therapy. These experiences helped shape me into the clinician I am today. My therapeutic approach is typically eclectic, meaning that I use various approaches in an attempt to adjust the therapeutic experience for the individual in front of me.
Overall, I identify as a Trauma-Informed Clinician who uses Humanistic and Person-Centered approaches. I also practice Psychodynamic and Relational-Cultural therapeutic practices to understand the connections between oneself, their communities, and their past experiences. I enjoy incorporating Mindfulness activities and Play Therapy into sessions. I want to walk beside each of my clients in the experiences that they share with me throughout the counseling process.
In my work with both children and adults, I am motivated to help clients reach feelings of strength and empowerment, and to continuously aid them in formulating and reaching their goals. Regardless of the age, gender, or background of my clients, I want to support and understand them within their journey!
