Shauna Chisholm
I believe we all come to this field for a reason, and my lived experiences have helped me better understand what my clients are going through. I work with people navigating mental health and substance use concerns, and I'm here to support you in achieving your unique goals. I believe everyone has the ability to grow and make changes, and I enjoy being part of that process. I like to incorporate our unique interests into sessions because counseling can have an element of fun to it. Each session is guided by you as we work toward the goals you set.
First session
In the first session, I'll take time to get to know your goals and experiences so I can best understand what you'd like to work on. Our first session with include going through an assessment to gain knowledge of what is bringing you to therapy, family history, and other possible influences that may be affecting you.
Strengths
In session I meet each individual where they are at and structure therapy based on their needs. You are the expert on your own life. I work with you to identify and pursue the goals that matter most to you. I use Art Therapy along with other modalities tailored to each client. I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all model. Often, I work from a Solution-Focused or Recovery Model standpoint. I've spent years working with individuals facing co-occurring mental health and substance use concerns, as well as in crisis settings.
Ideal clients
I love to work with individuals from many different walks of life. While I am passionate about working with individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community and those with a history of substance use concerns I have worked with individuals who have been diagnosed with concerns such as depression, anxiety, mood swings, hallucinations, ADHD and many others. Ideal clients are those who are looking to make changes in their lives.
Origin story
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community I have also navigated my own mental health and substance use concerns which inspired me to want to help others. As a child I had an amazing therapist who made me realize that we all need someone supportive in our lives. I have had the privilege to watch many people throughout my life time work through their own mental health and come out on top and I wanted to be a part of that process.
Ongoing work together
Throughout our work we will check in frequently and discuss progress made. We will also review documents that you will complete throughout our time together to see how things change over time.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I help individuals to identify goals and ways in which to work on changing behaviors.
Gender-affirming therapy
I work with individuals of all genders and help them to navigate challenges that come from this. I am also open to helping individuals through the process of navigating the surgery process and am open to writing gender affirming surgery letters.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
I will often use mindfulness, or being in the moment through meditative practices, to help individuals to navigate their concerns.
Motivational Interviewing
I use open ended questions to explore what the individual is experiencing.
Solution-Focused Brief Treatment
Often we work towards identifying and meeting specific goals regardless of past experiences.
Identifies as
Top specialties
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Licensed in
- CaliforniaLicense 89214