As the founder and Clinical Director of A Place to Turn, Dr. Cheri McDonald, PhD, LMFT, PATP, shines as a light of hope, providing a lifeline for individuals looking for change. Dr. Cheri is a trauma specialist with more than 35 years of experience in psychotherapy and hypnotherapy. She is unwavering in her commitment to helping clients overcome the complex web of losses and difficulties that stand in the way of their genuine wholeness and pleasure in life.
Her breakthrough Holistic Integral Therapy (HIT), which she invented to help clients access their inner healing knowledge, is at the core of her purpose. She sets out on a trip with you using HIT, fusing your mind, body, and spirit to advance your total progress and true wholeness.
Dr. Cheri's vision also encompasses DrCheriBreakFreeTM, a consulting program painstakingly created to guarantee that radical changes spread throughout families and communities, paving the road for achievement and an unbroken chain of integration work. Her most recent achievement is her certification in psychedelic-assisted therapy, which she smoothly integrates with the other tools in her toolbox, such as hypnotherapy, EMDR, energy work, trauma-informed yoga, and IFS, to speed up and elevate the healing process.
Dr. Cheri is an author of three Amazon number one selling books sharing her insights, tools and stories of success in the hope of spreading the power of everyone’s capacity to heal from the inside-out and assisting countless patients to overcome the avalanche of severe PTSD, her unwavering commitment for empowering people. Her transformative approach has sparked long-lasting rehabilitation and nurtured her clients' development into their best selves.
Cheri L McDonald, A Place To Turn Inc
To begin, could you tell us about your profound passion for people, which has been the driving force behind your life's work? Your dedication to people extends to your personal life as well. Could you share with us the importance of your family and how it influences your work?
My journey, at its core, is fueled by a profound passion for people, a deep wellspring of empathy and curiosity that has guided me throughout my life. I am irresistibly drawn to the intricate tapestry of the human experience, an awe-inspiring mosaic of stories, struggles, and triumphs within everyone.
I believe there is no better communication than connection, understanding, and love. It offers a language that transcends words through genuine empathy and the desire to alleviate the suffering and heal the wounds of those we encounter on our path.
In every facet of my life, from my 42-year marriage to my four children, and the sheer joy my ten beloved grandchildren bring, my family serves as the compass guiding my actions. My family is not just a part of my life; they are the vibrant center of my universe. It's within these connections and relationships that I find meaning, purpose, and inspiration.
For me, everything I do is a collaborative endeavor, a shared journey. I seek to co-lead with others, mentor them, and lay the foundation for future generations to embrace their full potential and become the best versions of themselves. It's a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit and the beauty of fostering growth, not only within ourselves but in those we have the privilege to touch along the way.
You've mentioned that your journey is a spiritual one. Can you elaborate on how this spirituality has influenced your work?
A profound spiritual drive underpins my journey. From the earliest moments of my life, I felt an inner calling to connect, to truly show up for not just my friends but, my neighbors and even those who may have considered themselves my foes. A deep well of empathy and understanding resides within me, compelling me to bridge the gaps between people's hearts.
Growing up, I grappled with navigating the intricate world of human interactions. I experienced awkwardness in connecting with my peers on a tangible level, resulting in social anxiety. In these moments, it felt like I was learning a complex dance with ever-changing steps and missing a beat.
As it turned out, this very struggle illuminated the impact of my upbringing on every aspect of my existence. A quest for self-discovery was the beginning of my spiritual awakening and sparked the realization of how our early experiences have the power to shape our emotional landscape, mental perceptions, physical health, social interactions, and continued spiritual evolution.
This epiphany was the catalyst for my deep dive into the holistic realms of the human journey. I had a strong desire to comprehend the complex relationships between these elements and how they influence each of our own life experiences. My journey into the holistic realms didn't begin in a therapist's office or a classroom; it began with my own life story.
By embracing this path of self-discovery, I began to connect the dots between our emotional well-being and the physical body that holds our souls. I found that true well-being transcends the mere absence of illness; it encompasses the fullness of our emotional and spiritual lives as well.
I realized that if we were to truly heal and flourish, we needed to address the root causes of our inner struggles comprehensively. Reaching deep within, to the core of our being, and unlocking the possibility for long-lasting transformation was more important than simply bandaging the superficial wounds.
Thus, I began my path as a lifelong learner, a seeker of knowledge, and an advocate for the uncharted territories of the human experience. It's through this exploration that I've uncovered the power of holistic healing, a journey extending far beyond our physical selves and delving into the very essence of who we are.
I guide my work with a holistic approach, considering it an honor to share this life-changing experience with individuals seeking healing, development, and a deeper comprehension of intricate connections between their lives.
I guide my work with a holistic approach, considering it an honor to share this life-changing experience with individuals seeking healing, development, and a deeper comprehension of the intricate connections between their own lives. I guide my work with a holistic approach, considering it an honor to share this life-changing experience with individuals seeking healing, development, and a deeper comprehension of the intricate connections between their own lives. I guide my work with a holistic approach, considering it an honor to share this life-changing experience with individuals seeking healing, development, and a deeper comprehension of the intricate connections between their own lives.
Your passion for learning and experiencing different walks of life is evident. How has this shaped your holistic perspective and approach to therapy?
I had an insatiable thirst for experiencing different walks of life as I grew up in a small town with lots of time on my hands. I observed and studied people, cultures, and religions, firmly believing in the power of learning through experience, which lies at the core of my holistic perspective.
One of the things that has defined me throughout my life is my never-ending curiosity about the various dimensions of the human experience. I immersed myself in the many narratives found in our world and developed into an enthusiastic student of people, cultures, and religions.
I have a strong confidence in the transforming potential of experience learning, which propelled me on this exploration voyage that took me beyond my immediate surroundings, and again, is the basis of my holistic viewpoint and guide in my approach to both therapy and life in general.
I've learned from my travels that the real key to development and wisdom is first-hand experiences. Tales and stories we hear, people we encounter, and cultures we accept form the foundation of an intricate web that permeates our perception of reality. Each encounter is a component of a bigger picture that aids in our exploration of both the outside world and the complex interior landscapes that exist within.
The ability to fully immerse ourselves in the rich hues and distinctive textures of the human journey is the power of experiential learning. An invitation to put yourself in another person's shoes, experience life from their viewpoint, and learn things that textbooks couldn't teach you. This serves as the cornerstone of my work as I assist clients in navigating their own paths toward recovery, self-awareness, and personal growth.
You've integrated various modalities into your work. How did your journey lead you to psychology and family sciences?
My path from adolescence to young adulthood was, in many ways, a quest to discover my cultural and religious roots. Attending Brigham Young University (BYU), marked a significant turning point in my quest for personal growth and discovery of the profound roots that support my identity and to delve into the rich tapestry of my heritage there. This pursuit proved to be the catalyst for finding my life's purpose.
As I stepped onto the BYU campus, I felt a profound sense of purpose and the promise of self-realization. The world of academia was wide open, offering me a plethora of degree options to choose from. It was amidst this landscape of possibilities that I discovered the domains of psychology and family sciences. The moment I delved into these disciplines; I experienced a deep connection the instant I started these disciplines. I knew I was called to do this work.
This serendipitous encounter with psychology and family sciences was the beginning of an unwavering journey and I never looked back. They became not just areas of study but a vocation, a calling that would shape my life and become the cornerstone of my mission to help others navigate the intricate paths of their own well-being.
During my college years, my eyes were opened to the holistic viewpoint that firmly establishes the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit. It turned into the blank canvas that I would fill with my life's work, providing people with healing, self-discovery, and transformation.
Can you tell us about the pivotal experience with a client that led you to hypnotherapy and the concept of "inside-out healing"?
A decade into my career, I had a life-altering experience with a client who needed more than talk therapy. This was a pivotal moment in my life, personally and professionally. In a Claire-cognitive moment, a still small voice whispered to me a message that this individual needed hypnotherapy. This marked the beginning of my journey into the realm of the unconscious mind and introduced me to the concept of the inner healing intelligence or master healer within all of us. Thus began the journey of inside-out healing.
A decade into my career as a therapist, a profound and life-altering experience occurred that would leave an indelible mark on my path, personally and professionally. This transformative moment led to a profound shift in my therapeutic approach, paving the way for the evolution of my life's work.
This client, who came seeking my guidance, required something beyond conventional talk therapy. It was a pivotal moment, a turning point in the tapestry of my career. What unfolded can only be described as a Claire-cognitive experience, a moment when a deeper understanding revealed itself. In that instance, it became abundantly clear that this individual needed a different approach—an approach that was rooted in hypnotherapy.
This insight marked the beginning of my exploration of the complex unconscious mind. A curtain had been pulled back to reveal the hidden terrain of our inner lives, and in those depths, I discovered a notion of great importance: the inner healing intelligence, also known as the master healer, is a source of resiliency and healing energy that is inherent in every one of us.
With this newfound knowledge, a life-changing expedition began, known as the inside-out healing journey. A turning point in my therapeutic work as I started investigating the therapeutic possibilities of drawing from this inner reservoir of knowledge. This served as the inspiration for my profession, devoting my endeavors to assisting people in following a path of self-discovery, healing, and transformation from the inside out.
Nature is a significant source of inspiration for you. How does this influence your work?
My connection to wisdom extends beyond the confines of traditional learning. Mother nature, with her profound beauty and inherent wisdom, has long been my muse and a wellspring of inspiration. Whether it's the rhythmic beat of my footsteps on a running trail, the serenity of hiking through the untamed wilderness, or the freedom I feel while riding my bike through open landscapes, nature offers me a canvas upon which to paint my thoughts and emotions.
In these moments, I become an observer, a seeker of symbolic messages that the natural world offers so generously. Each rustling leaf, each whispering breeze, and each majestic sunset carries its own wisdom. Tokens of nature provide daily inspiration and infuse my life with a sense of joy and wonder, reminding me of the deep interconnectedness of all living things.
As I venture into the world, this intimate connection with the world around me fuels my passion for life and my dedication to guiding others on their transformative journeys, helping them access their own wellspring of wisdom and inner healing.
Your passion for travel also stands out. How has this added to your perspective as a therapist?
My love for travel is a profound part of my life's narrative, woven into the tapestry of my personal and professional growth This enthusiasm began during a life-changing study abroad program that took me through Israel's mysterious cultural mosaic and Europe's vast and varied landscapes. I realized the value of immersion during this trip—the ability to put oneself in another person's shoes and see the world from their perspective.
Today, this love for travel endures, undiminished. I embark on each new adventure with the same unwavering intent –meeting people where they are and observing life in its most authentic form. Traveling the world is not just a collection of destinations and photo opportunities; it's a profound act of empathy. I want to understand the human experience, not through guidebooks or preconceptions, but through the lives of the people I encounter.
Has there been any one person who has had a profound impact on your life? Could you share who and how their presence influenced your holistic perspective?
With the birth of my younger sister Lori, a life-altering chapter was woven into the complicated fabric of my life. Before her birth, she was diagnosed with both German measles and born afflicted with cerebral palsy. Lori has remarkable resilience and an unwavering spirit. She fills whatever room she enters with her loving aura. It was evident in her presence that the human spirit is limitless, even when faced with severe physical constraints. To this day, being with Lori is like encountering a magnetic field of positivity. She reaches people at the very core of their being, forging bonds that transcend mere words.
In the depths of my heart, I carried a profound desire to connect with others in the same way Lori has. I am deeply indebted to her, as Lori’s presence in my life is a reminder of the incredible potency of genuine human connection, transcending language, and physical constraints. Influenced by Lori’s example, I committed to learning the art of meeting people where they were, understanding their unique journeys, and guiding them toward healing and self-discovery. It is my unwavering mission to empathize, empower, and heal, as Lori’s profound influence continues to shape my path of compassion, connection, and transformation.
Values and beliefs are integral to your therapeutic approach. Could you share more about this aspect of your work?
As a psychotherapist, I spend a lot of time exploring the complex web of values and beliefs that comprise my clients. I acknowledge these elements as the real core of who we are, embodying the goals we've set for ourselves along the way. Principles and convictions form the basis of our identity and serve as our compass when navigating the outside world.
Integrity is the cornerstone upon which trust, credibility, and genuine human connection are made. It's the bedrock of every therapeutic relationship, forging the bond of trust and openness that allows clients to embark on their healing journeys with confidence. Integrity transcends mere honesty; it embodies an unwavering commitment to authenticity, transparency, and moral uprightness. I've come to believe that the pursuit of integrity is not an external endeavor but an internal compass that guides us to make choices consistent with our true selves.
In essence, integrity is the light that illuminates the path toward self-discovery, transformation, and lasting healing, and I strive to embody it in all that I do, ensuring that each interaction reflects the integrity I hold dear.
Your interest in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy is intriguing. Could you share your motivations and their advantages in your work?
In my professional experience, psychedelic-assisted therapy is a revolutionary and transforming modality with many benefits. It integrates seamlessly with my holistic approach and propels the work I do in profound ways.
One of the most remarkable merits of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy lies in its ability to accelerate emotional, mental, and spiritual breakthroughs. Psychedelic medicines open doors to the deepest recesses of the human psyche, enabling individuals to confront and work through long-standing emotional wounds, mental blocks, and spiritual questions that might remain untouched by traditional therapeutic methods. In this altered state of consciousness, clients can navigate their inner landscapes with an unencumbered perspective, often leading to swifter and more profound insights. It's a catalytic process that can compress months or even years of traditional therapy into a single transformative session.
Moreover, my comprehensive approach is aligned with Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy. It is consistent with my view that treating a person as a whole—mind, body, and spirit—is important. Psychedelic medicines provide a gateway to working with the inner healing intelligence, offering an all-encompassing healing experience. The expanded consciousness they induce can foster a deeper sense of unity with oneself and the universe, amplifying the potential for holistic healing.
Overall, Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy is a remarkable addition to my therapeutic toolkit, aligning seamlessly with my mission to guide individuals on their journey to healing and self-discovery. It represents a frontier of therapeutic possibilities, promising expedited and enduring transformation.
Lastly, what advice do you have for aspiring therapists looking to join you in pioneering the field of holistic and psychedelic therapy?
Embarking on a journey into holistic and psychedelic therapy is an exciting path, but it's vital to be well-prepared for the road ahead. After decades in the field, I suggest some key insights:
Prioritize Education and Training: Build on the foundation of your training and expertise in therapeutic modalities that resonate with you. Commit to continued learning as it is the cornerstone of professional growth. I suggest that you specialize and mix it up, including developing expertise in your chosen niche and blending different therapeutic approaches to create a holistic experience.
Legal Know-How & Ethics: Understand the legal landscape in your area. The laws regarding psychedelics in therapy can differ greatly, so make sure you're operating within the legal boundaries. Always prioritize ethics. The client's safety and well-being should be at the forefront of your practice.
Get Experience: Clinical experience is your best friend. Learn to work with diverse clients and cases; this is where you hone your skills.
Self-Growth: Don't forget your own growth and healing journey. This includes being self-aware so you are equipped to guide others.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest in the field. Attend workshops and conferences to enhance your knowledge.
Network and Collaborate: Connect with colleagues who share your passion and whom you can glean insights and knowledge beyond what you know.
Cultivate Empathy: Empathetic listening and compassion are non-negotiable. How you connect with your clients can lead to transformative experiences.
Remember, this journey isn't just a career; it's a profound calling to empower and heal. Keep true to your integrity and honor the sacredness of the unconscious realms as you address all the holistic aspects of the work you do toward making a lasting impact in the world of mental health.
