Macdara MacColl, MS, LMFT,  is a Certified EFT Couples therapist. She received her MS, MFT from Central Connecticut State University and has pursued advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) as well as mindfulness and acceptance-based practices. Her research with Dr. Dan Weiner on the role of mutual validation in couple’s relationships was published in the International Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences, and she guest lectures on the topic of the neurobiology of interpersonal relationships and couples therapy.

Macdara helps her clients identify the patterns that keep relationships stuck, and guides couples through the process of transforming their interactions into safe, loving connections. She works with couples on issues of sexual intimacy, helping them rediscover the pleasure of physical touch. Macdara also likes to laugh, and brings a sense of playfulness to her therapeutic work.

Prior to launching her private practice, Macdara spent many years at Westbrook Youth and Family Services, Inc., in Westbrook, Ct. As clinical director there, she proudly oversaw the agency’s therapy services, developed healthy family programs, and taught court-mandated parenting education for divorcing couples. She continues to serve as a Clinical Consultant for the agency.

Prior to her clinical career, Macdara was a pioneer of online community, developing one of the first internet parenting communities in the 1990s. Her industry-leading work in creating safe virtual spaces for people to connect and support each other was featured in many publications and books, such as the New York Times and Community Building on the Web. She was a frequent presenter on the topic of online community, and in 1997 was a featured speaker at the White House, where she shared the podium with President Bill Clinton and Vice President Al Gore as they presented the administration’s first e-commerce policy.

Macdara is a member of:  American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy; Connecticut Association for Marriage and Family Therapy; International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy; New York Center for Emotionally Focused Therapy.