Donna Handy , LMHC

Donna Handy works with adults who are coping with medical trauma, chronic illness, major health events, anxiety, and grief. She focuses on practical steps to help people feel less overwhelmed and regain a sense of direction. Donna offers a calm, steady approach that centers on what matters most to each person.

Donna is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, with four years of clinical experience. She draws on her own experience as a two-time transplant survivor to understand the emotional impact of diagnosis, hospitalization, transplant, disability, and prolonged medical care. That lived perspective shapes how she listens and responds in sessions.

In early meetings she helps clients process difficult experiences and identify existing strengths. Together they develop coping skills and steps to manage symptoms like panic, grief, and fatigue. She also supports people working through life transitions and career concerns after major health events.

When it fits the client’s needs, discussions of faith and Christian beliefs can be included in sessions. She tailors the pace and tools to each person, focusing on realistic actions that build resilience and confidence.

Donna practices in Rhode Island and offers sessions in English. She uses a mix of talking, skill-building, and structured interventions to help people move forward with greater hope and practical direction.

Approaches that fit medical trauma and life transitions

Donna uses evidence-based techniques to help people process difficult medical experiences and adjust to new life circumstances. Cognitive behavioral approaches focus on identifying unhelpful thoughts and trying practical experiments to change patterns that increase anxiety and avoidant behavior. Motivational interviewing helps people clarify what matters most and build motivation for change in small, manageable steps.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will work with each person to choose methods that match their goals, comfort level, and day-to-day realities. Together they review what works and adapt the plan over time so therapy fits evolving needs.

Online sessions are offered by video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging to provide flexibility. Video calls allow face-to-face conversation when a full check-in is helpful. Phone sessions use less bandwidth and can fit a break at work. Live chat or text messaging support brief check-ins, journaling, or ongoing skill practice between longer sessions. These options help people stay consistent with therapy while juggling medical appointments and daily life.