Shawandalyn Cooley
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that people are often stronger, more resilient, and more capable than they realize. My role is to help clients uncover those strengths, understand the patterns that keep them stuck, and develop new ways of responding to life's challenges. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, stress, life transitions, emotional overwhelm, low self-confidence, relationship difficulties, and identity shifts. Using a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), strengths-based interventions, and practical problem-solving, I help clients understand not only what they are feeling, but why they are feeling it. Together, we explore the cycles that often drive distress. Many people find themselves reacting automatically to triggers, conflict, uncertainty, or emotional demands in ways that once helped them feel safe but no longer serve them. Therapy provides a space to slow down, recognize those patterns, and create opportunities for different choices.
I help individuals rediscover the strength, clarity and resilience they may not yet see in themselves.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and empowering. I believe healing begins when we can move from simply surviving to understanding ourselves with greater compassion and intention. Whether you're navigating a major life transition, struggling with anxiety, or feeling stuck in familiar patterns, I aim to help you reconnect with your strengths and build confidence in your ability to move forward
First session
The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know one another and begin building a strong therapeutic relationship. We'll discuss what brings you to therapy, the challenges you're currently facing, your personal history, and the goals you'd like to achieve. Together, we'll identify your strengths, explore what's been helpful in the past, and develop a plan tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered.
Strengths
My greatest strength is balancing compassion with action. I provide a supportive space where clients feel comfortable exploring difficult experiences while also helping them identify concrete goals and practical strategies for moving forward. Clients often leave sessions with greater clarity, increased self-awareness, and a renewed sense of confidence in their ability to navigate life's challenges.
Ideal clients
My ideal clients are capable, caring adults who spend most of their lives taking care of others and have lost sight of themselves in the process; ready for change but need support identifying the path forward. They are looking for a collaborative, goal oriented space to gain insight, build on strengths and develop strategies that help to move forward. They may be struggling with anxiety, stress, burnout, life transitions, or relationship challenges.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I provide a supportive, collaborative space where clients can better understand the challenges they are facing and develop practical tools for managing them. Together, we'll explore patterns in thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships that may be contributing to distress. My goal is to help clients gain insight, strengthen coping skills, improve communication and relationships, and create meaningful, lasting change in their lives.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Woman
Top specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Serves
Adults (18 to 64)
Elders (65 and above)
Individual Therapy
Licensed in
District of ColumbiaLicense LC200001547
MarylandLicense 24269
VirginiaLicense 0904009596