Summary
Work History
Education
Skills
Clinical Interests
References
Timeline
Hi, I’m

Mackenzie Oakley

Cedar Rapids,IA
Mackenzie  Oakley

Summary

From a young age, I knew I wanted to become a therapist. My passion lies in connecting with people on a deep, authentic level. I have found joy in listening to individuals' unique lived experiences, and I have found great fulfillment in witnessing personal growth and transformation.

I approach therapy with the belief that no two people are the same, and, therefore, everyone’s process in the therapy room will look different. I strive to create a warm and compassionate safe space for everyone, where clients feel encouraged to show up as their true selves. Whether seeking support through a difficult time, navigating a major life transition, or simply needing someone to listen, I will be there to walk alongside my clients on their journey.

My therapeutic style leans toward a collaborative and systemic approach, aiming to foster meaningful relationships, and empower clients to take an active role in their healing. I have found myself in the therapy room using a mix of therapeutic models; I most frequently use IFS, SFBT, and CBT, depending on the client's specific needs and goals. I am deeply committed to offering care that is compassionate, personalized, and non-judgmental.

Work History

Tanager Place
Cedar Rapids, Iowa

School Based Clinician
08.2025 - Current

Job overview

  • Conducted individual and group therapy sessions for students requiring support.
  • Collaborated with educators to create tailored student support plans.
  • Executed assessments to determine mental health needs of students.
  • Maintained clinical documentation in compliance with relevant policies.
  • Educated families on available mental health resources and coping techniques.
  • Implemented behavior management strategies within school environments.
  • Developed crisis intervention plans for at-risk students.
  • Created safe spaces for at-risk students to access mental health services.

Mount Mercy University
Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Student Therapist
07.2025 - Current

Job overview

  • Conducted individual therapy sessions for diverse student populations and families facing challenges.
  • Facilitated group therapy sessions to enhance communication among participants.
  • Assessed client needs via interviews and psychological evaluations.
  • Developed and implemented individualized treatment plans to strengthen family dynamics and support personal growth.
  • Educated clients and families on coping strategies, mental health issues, and community resources.
  • Maintained accurate client records in compliance with regulations and ethical standards.
  • Participated in regular clinical supervision to discuss cases and receive constructive feedback.
  • Collaborated with mental health professionals to coordinate comprehensive care for clients.

Education

University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA

Bachelor of Arts from Psychology
05-2024

University Overview

  • Additional Coursework in American Sign Language
  • Additional Coursework in adolescence and families

Mount Mercy University
Cedar Rapids, IA

Masters from Marriage And Family Therapy
07-2026

Skills

  • Treatment planning
  • Collaborative care
  • Problem-solving strategies
  • Family engagement
  • Case management
  • Self-motivation
  • Continuous improvement
  • Goal setting
  • Client education
  • Relationship building
  • Time management
  • Motivational interviewing
  • Progress evaluations
  • Humanistic therapy
  • Empathy development
  • Client confidentiality
  • Disorder diagnosis
  • Professionalism
  • Self-care promotion
  • Attention to detail
  • Adaptability and flexibility
  • Task prioritization
  • Cultural awareness
  • Ethical compliance

Clinical Interests

  • Individual therapy
  • Couple/Family therapy
  • Young Adults/ Teenagers
  • Self-identity/ Self-discovery
  • Relationship issues
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Healthy attachment building
  • Eating disorders & body dysmorphia
  • Women Issues
  • Life Transition guidance

References

  • Deb Wiethorn - email: dweithorn@tangerplace.org
  • Jessica Pladsen (Supervisor/Professor/LMFT) - jplasen@mtmercy.edu
  • Douglas McPhee (Clinical Director of MFT Program) -

dmcphee@mtmercy.edu

  • Joella Gerber (MFT Faculty/LISW) - jgerber@mtmercy.edu

Timeline

School Based Clinician

Tanager Place
08.2025 - Current

Student Therapist

Mount Mercy University
07.2025 - Current

University of Iowa

Bachelor of Arts from Psychology

Mount Mercy University

Masters from Marriage And Family Therapy
Mackenzie Oakley