Often rebooked
Welcome! My name is Kiana Shelton, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of post-graduate experience. As a Black woman, mother, and ally to all marginalized communities, I deeply understand the importance of having a safe space where your vulnerability is truly held and honored. I am committed to creating a supportive and nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship that helps you gain deeper self-awareness and supports your journey toward growth and emotional well-being. Together, we will navigate the complexities of your emotions with compassion, uncovering pathways to resilience, inner peace, and a more fulfilling life.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
During sessions, clients can expect a welcoming and collaborative atmosphere. I begin by building a rapport, getting to know the client's background, and understanding their reasons for seeking therapy. We discuss confidentiality and the therapeutic process, addressing any questions or concerns. Clients are encouraged to share their goals and expectations for therapy, and together, we establish a framework for our work. The initial session is an opportunity for clients to feel comfortable expressing themselves and for us to collaboratively outline a path forward that aligns with their needs and aspirations.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
Throughout my career, I have developed a strong ability to empower individuals to discover and build upon their inner strengths while navigating life’s challenges. By combining evidence-based practices with a personalized, client-centered approach, I aim to create a space that fosters healing, resilience, and renewed hope. I also bring humor and authenticity into the room, believing that being my true self and modeling vulnerability helps build trust and connection. This genuine approach encourages clients to feel safe exploring their own emotions and growth with openness and courage.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I love working with individuals who are seeking therapy for the first time or returning after a new life transition. No matter where you are in your adulthood journey, there is something deeply courageous about acknowledging the need to find a new way to show up in the world. I also love working with other therapists, as I find great joy in holding space for those who dedicate their lives to holding space for others.
Strength-Based
In my practice, I use a strengths-based approach that focuses on each individual’s unique strengths, resources, and capabilities rather than solely on their challenges or deficits. By highlighting and building upon your existing skills, we create a foundation for personal growth, resilience, and meaningful change. This approach is inherently collaborative, we will work together to recognize and harness your strengths as tools for overcoming difficulties and achieving your goals. I firmly believe in your capacity for growth, and I know you've already gotten through 100% of your toughest days. That resilience is proof of your inner strength, and it’s something we can continue to build on together.
Christian Counseling
I view your faith as a meaningful source of strength and resilience. My goal is to support your healing journey in a way that honors both your mental health and your spiritual beliefs, so you never feel like you have to choose between the two. I aim to help you discover how your Faith can be a powerful foundation for coping with life’s challenges. With your guidance, I will thoughtfully integrate these values and principles into our sessions, creating a space where faith and psychological well-being work together toward your growth and healing.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In our sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques to help you recognize and understand patterns in your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Together, we work on identifying unhelpful or negative thinking and replacing it with more balanced, realistic perspectives. This process supports emotional well-being and encourages healthier, more adaptive behaviors.
Gender-affirming therapy
I completed a nine-month training in Gender-Affirming Therapy program that focused on supporting the LGBTQ+ community. In my practice, I integrate a gender-affirming approaches to create a collaborative and supportive space where clients can explore their identities, navigate social experiences, and move toward living authentically. My work centers on helping individuals build resilience, develop effective coping strategies, and foster a strong, positive sense of self.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I blend the structured framework of DBT-informed techniques with a flexible, client-focused approach. My goal is to provide a supportive and collaborative environment where clients feel safe to explore personal growth, develop effective coping strategies, and work toward greater emotional balance and well-being. Whether practicing grounding exercises, learning to respond thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively, or establishing daily habits that promote emotional health, I customize these skills to meet each client’s individual needs and goals.
6 ratings with written reviews
October 3, 2025
I have continued to have very successful encounters with Kiana. She has been a very prominent force for helping to reframe certain thoughts and suggesting better language for certain emotions. I never feel judged; she is incredibly warm and authentic, allowing me to be comfortable expressing myself and working through issues. I'm definitely seeing benefits to our sessions and highly recommend her as a provider.
August 16, 2025
I had my first session with Kiana today, and I'm already glad I chose her to support my therapy journey. She is a very kind, authentic individual who is clearly knowledgeable and seems eager to support my goals. I'm looking forward to working with her and building up my toolkit for coping with grief, stressors, and anxiety.
July 17, 2025
this is the first time I've ever done a first therapy session and walked away instantly knowing this is someone I want to be my therapist. therapy is incredibly daunting and draining for me and there was that friendliness and authenticity that didn't have me feeling either of those things by the end of the session. i'm very grateful