Dr. McDonald is a Clinical Neuropsychologist with a broad range of experience in  pediatric and adult neuropsychological assessment.   A New Jersey native, she is thrilled to have recently moved her private practice to Westfield, NJ after working in both private practice and hospital settings in Manhattan. Dr. McDonald’s NJ-based practice caters to children, adolescents and young adults with a range of needs.  She has worked extensively with individuals who have difficulties with learning and / or attention, neurodevelopmental disorders, medical conditions, and complex psychiatric challenges. Dr. McDonald views neuropsychological evaluation as a tool to gather comprehensive information about one’s strengths and areas of need. This information is then carefully considered within the context of the individual’s unique personal history. With each thorough and comprehensive evaluation, Dr. McDonald’s ultimate goal is to develop a road map with specific recommendations and strategies to address areas of need and to foster strengths.  Dr. McDonald works collaboratively with families, schools and treatment providers to implement plans.

Prior to moving her private practice to New Jersey, Dr. McDonald was a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medical Psychology (in Psychiatry) at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and an Assistant Professional Psychologist at New York Presbyterian Hospital, where she was involved in teaching and supervising graduate students completing internship.  She also worked at the New York Psychiatric Institute, where she coordinated the Neuropsychological and Psychological Assessment service for the inpatient and outpatient units of the hospital.

Dr. McDonald earned an undergraduate degree in psychology from Georgetown University and completed her doctorate in clinical psychology at the Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology at Widener University in Pennsylvania.  In addition to her training in general clinical psychology, Dr. McDonald further completed concentrations in School Psychology and Neuropsychology during her graduate training.  She completed APA-approved internships at Widener’s Neuropsychology Assessment Center and in the Neurology Department at Jefferson University Hospital for Neuroscience.  After earning her doctorate, Dr. McDonald completed a 2-year postdoctoral fellowship in Neuropsychology at Columbia University in New York City, where she further specialized in pediatric, adolescent and young adult neuropsychology.