Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 98 ratings

Shakirah Forde

LCSW, 10 years of experience

Direct
Empowering
Authentic
Virtual
Next available on

About me

Hey there, my name is Shakirah. Are you struggling with finding your passion or purpose? Have you realized that what you thought you wanted has changed? What about trying to keep it together during these challenging times? I have been providing therapy to adults struggling with stress management, low motivation, and self-esteem issues for the past 10 years. I help others change maladaptive habits like negative self-talk, procrastination, and inconsistency. These times are uniquely challenging and everyone could use some support. Using evidence-based interventions like CBT, Acceptance Therapy and mindfulness as well as implementing healthy boundaries and self-care, I can help you reach your goals and find more enjoyment in your day-to-day. I am inclusive and LGBTQ-affirming. There is no better time to start than NOW.

Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

In our first session, we’ll spend some time getting to know each other. I’ll ask about what brought you to therapy, your goals, and what you’d like support with. We’ll also talk through what therapy looks like with me, answer any questions you may have, and set some intentions for moving forward together. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and understood from the very beginning.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

I help my clients find their power and shift to healthier mindsets that allow for positive change.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

I work best with clients who are ready to make meaningful changes in their lives—whether that means navigating stress and anxiety, processing past experiences, improving relationships, or finding more clarity and balance day to day. My ideal clients are curious about themselves, open to reflection, and willing to take steps (big or small) toward their well-being. Some come to therapy seeking support through a difficult season, while others are more proactive—wanting tools and guidance to live in greater alignment with who they truly are. Whether you’re new to therapy or returning to it with new goals, I’m here to walk alongside you with compassion, honesty, and encouragement.

Specialties

Top specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Spirituality

I identify as

Black / African American
Woman

Serves ages

Adults (18 to 64)
Elders (65 and above)

Location

Virtual

Licensed in

Georgia
New York

Accepts

Aetna
Aetna - WebTPA
All Savers
Anthem
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Anthem - Medicare
Blue Cross Blue Shield - Medicare
AvMed
Cash - $100 per session
Cigna
EAP:Cigna
EAP:Evernorth
EAP:UnitedHealthcare/Optum
Evernorth
Golden Rule
Harvard Pilgrim/UnitedHealthcare
UnitedHealthcare/Optum
Optum
OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions
Oscar
Oxford
Surest (formerly Bind)
Tufts Health/Cigna
United Medical Resources
UnitedHealthcare Life Insurance
UnitedHealthcare Shared Services
UnitedHealthcare StudentResources
Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 98 ratings

5 ratings with written reviews

June 18, 2025

It was hard to get anything out of the session I had with Shakirah. She wasn't personable. I spent the entire hour explaining why I felt the way I did. I would've appreciated understanding instead of judgment. The session ended after 30 min. Not a good conversation. I feel like I put myself out there and she did nothing to help start me on my journey in mental health. Just wasn't a good fit. I was going to rebook but she didn't even provide a treatment plan.

Verified client, age 35-44

Review shared after session 1 with Shakirah

May 7, 2025

So I've been hunting around for a therapist who really gets the unique challenges we face as women of color, and I think I might have found the perfect fit in Shakirah! She seems to be super non-judgmental, a really good listener, and she takes the time to understand the whole picture before jumping to conclusions.

Verified client, age 35-44

Review shared after session 5 with Shakirah

March 24, 2025

Hello just wanted to say it was a real pleasure chatting with Ms. Forde today. Looking forward to our next conversation! Best, Michael.

Verified client, age 45-54

Review shared after session 1 with Shakirah