(she/her)
Hi, my name is Shala. I'm an LPCC who works with clients from all walks of life to address some of today's most common concerns. I've worked with people in recovery, those coming out of the prison system, survivors of childhood trauma, people with personality disorders, and individuals questioning their identity or their spirituality. My passions are incorporating mind-body approaches to help you stay present in the moment, teaching skills that you can use in tough moments, offering education on communication and relationships, and incorporating spirituality into the counseling process.
I like to spend the first session getting to know my clients. We'll talk about your current situation and then look at the "big picture" of your life including things like family, friends, practical considerations, hobbies, personal strengths, upbringing, and the main concern that brings you to therapy. I'll never require clients to talk about something that they're not comfortable with, and work to meet clients where they're at in the process. Next, we'll look at your symptoms and determine a diagnosis (if applicable), then we'll decide what kind of approach to take moving forward.
Patience, compassion, a deep insight, willingness to provide education around clients' diagnoses or concerns, and the range of techniques and coping skills that I offer. (I also like to think I'm funny, but that's for you to decide.)
My ideal client is one who shows up to do the work. That's where it all starts. Whatever your concern is, if you're able to be honest with yourself and with me, and if you're courageous enough to take the necessary steps to improve your life, I think we'll work well together. I'm happy to work with clients from all backgrounds and all walks of life, even if it's unfamiliar to me. I don't believe that any of us should be judged for our history, preferences, challenges, or our genuine needs.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
There are many things we can't control in life, but our thoughts and our actions are two things that we can gain control over. CBT offers techniques to help you identify and change problematic thoughts and behaviors so you can live the life you want to lead.
Mind-body approach
I apply breathwork, calming, and grounding skills to help you understand the relationship between your mind, body, and emotions. I believe that it is important to be aware of our body and our nervous system's response to the things around us. If you slow your breathing and heart rate, soften your muscles, and tune into your senses, you might be able to say: "At least for this moment, I'm okay."
Person-centered (Rogerian)
I bring the humanistic principles of genuineness, empathy, and unconditional positive regard to every session. I believe that each of us has a unique path and personal identity, and only you can truly know what that is. I'm not here to tell anyone what is best for them, but to help you along the path that you decide for yourself.
Psychoeducation
Psychology shouldn't be a secret. I can provide a bit of education about your concerns, whether it is in the realm of human development, communication and relationships, diagnoses, or general functioning. It's important for you to understand how these things play out in your daily life so that you'll have the skills and understanding you need to navigate life's challenges.
Existential
In existential therapy, we'll explore some of the deeper questions in life, such as: "What is my purpose?" "What kind of person do I want to be?" "What do I believe happens after death?" "What's most important to me?" and others. This is an exploratory approach that helps you gain a deeper understanding of yourself, your personal values and beliefs, and a greater sense of empowerment. For clients who are interested, I can also incorporate meditative techniques to help you tap into your subconscious mind and uncover a deeper wisdom within yourself.
16 ratings with written reviews
March 4, 2026
I am so grateful to have found Shala! She is the most empathically direct therapist I've ever had. She is extremely insightful, warm and genuine. I've never felt judged or misunderstood by her, which is easy to feel as a neurodivergent person. Anyone would be lucky to have Shala as a therapist!
October 27, 2025
Shala always listens and offers practical solutions. At the end of our time, she offered a guided meditation which was grounding and encouraging.
July 23, 2025
I’m doing so much better than even just 3 months ago. Shala is excellent at showing you how to zoom out and see the bigger picture and task at hand. More confidence in my communication and less instances of both my anxiety and depression due to employing tactics we’d talked about.