I appreciate you taking the time to learn about me and consider working together. As there are likely many therapists who can accompany you on your journey, here’s a bit about me, which may help you make a choice. I have worked with many people navigating anxiety, depression, stressors, life transitions, trauma, substance use, learning & neurological differences, and relationship issues. If we work together, you can expect to learn more about your authentic self – who you are at the core. I am curious to identify the unique gifts you bring to the world and illuminate how you can use those to address challenges and opportunities in your life. I will listen intently, be curious about your thoughts and feelings, and respect you are an expert in your own life. Whether your decision to seek a therapist is something you’ve considered for a long time or a decision just made, you may be experiencing a mix of thoughts and feelings. Perhaps some vulnerability asking for support from and confiding in someone you don’t yet know, maybe uncertainty about how therapy will help you. I view the very act of reading my profile as an act of courage and hope.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
I initially meet with a potential new client in a 20-min Initial Consultation. This no-cost Zoom meeting is an opportunity to discuss your needs and how I may be able to help, to ensure a good fit before we both agree to start therapy. If we decide to move ahead with therapy after the Initial Consultation, we’ll identify a date/time for a 55-minute Intake appointment, as well as a regular meeting time. Before that appointment, you'd complete an online intake form and multiple questionnaires (I send links to these online forms by email). In that Intake appointment we’d go over the paperwork you completed (intake form and questionnaires), you'd share more about your goals in therapy, and chat about how we’ll work together.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My approach is down-to-earth, direct, and relatable. I understand all transitions can be hard, whether we sought it or not. Our response to change is also not linear -- sometimes we take steps forward and sometimes it can feel like we are moving backward. I anticipate every person has many strengths (some they may not fully be aware of) and that you are motivated to use these to thrive, not just survive. My empathy and hope come not just from books and client experience, it's informed by personal experiences navigating ups and downs as a student, leader, worker, parent, and partner.
About Shannon Mong
Specializes in
Licensed in
Accepts
Appointments
VirtualMy treatment methods
Psychodynamic
Trained in psychodynamic theory, my practice is grounded in an understanding of human development, attachment theory, equity & resilience. In everyday language, that means I recognize each client's unique approach to life is influenced by many factors – how your brain processes thoughts, feelings & sensations; relationships with people while growing up; relationships with people you counted on growing up and now; your gender, identity, race, ethnicity & class; life events & your stage of life. Also integrate in complementary practices of control-master theory, which presumes people are actively seeking to improve their well being by seeking healthier relationships with people.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
For more than two decades have integrated mindfulness and gratitude practices as both an instructor and in therapeutic work on building individual resilience.
Attachment-based
As a college student of psychology, I was fortunate to study with Dr. Carol George and contribute to her research identifying disorganized attachment. Since then, I have been been honored to support children and adults in cultivating self-compassion, healthy attachment, and satisfaction in current relationships. I apply advanced training to foster insight into family attachment patterns that can impact one’s responses to friends, partners, and co-workers. Reduce anxiety from painful or uncomfortable connections with others. Explore new patterns of communication and interpersonal skills that convey emotions, wants, and needs effectively.
Trauma Informed Care
Have taught and introduced trauma-informed practices in outpatient and inpatient settings.
Strength-Based
I see each person as being motivated toward well being. My work is grounded in both research and a belief that people are seeking healthier relationships with themselves and others. I recognize and support people in recognizing and drawing up on the many unique strengths they've gained, often through challenging situations.