Shanelle Damaso
Shanelle Damaso
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience supporting individuals and families through a range of life challenges. My work has focused on helping clients manage anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, school-related issues, and major life transitions. I am also certified to support those living with chronic pain. In my practice, I strive to create a warm, safe, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, respected, and supported. I view therapy as a meaningful conversation—one where I walk alongside you as a compassionate listener and trusted guide. I’m deeply passionate about helping people unlock their potential and move toward a life that aligns with their values and goals. As the child of Jamaican immigrants, I bring a culturally informed lens to my work and value the richness that diversity and inclusion bring to the therapeutic process. My faith also grounds me and informs my commitment to providing ethical, compassionate care. I look forward to the opportunity to support your growth and help you build the life you envision.
Get to know me
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
In our first session, we’ll be reviewing key information from your intake paperwork to help gain a deeper understanding of your current challenges and what you hope to achieve through therapy. I take a collaborative approach and believe that you are the expert on your own life. Together we'll begin to outline a plan tailored to your needs. We’ll also review the limits of confidentiality and discuss what the process of therapy will look for us, including how often we'll meet for sessions (e.g., weekly or biweekly) and what you can expect from our work together. This is an important time to set a therapeutic foundation and ensure that you feel informed, safe, and supported. We'll get to know each other a bit and see if we're a good fit.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
What makes me a strong therapist is the balance I bring to the room. I enjoy creating a space that feels safe, natural, and even a little fun. I love a good laugh, and I believe humor can be just as healing as any intervention. At the same time, I’ll help us stay on track with the goals you came in for, so you leave each session feeling supported and like real progress is being made. I blend evidence-based practices with what feels most helpful in the moment, whether that’s introducing a new skill, exploring what’s weighing you down, or just being fully present with you. I also enjoy incorporating creative tools like videos, music, or journaling when it fits your style.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I’m best positioned to support individuals who feel overwhelmed, unheard, or stretched thin by the many demands of life—whether that's related to career challenges, health concerns, academic stress, or major life transitions. My clients often include those navigating burnout, identity shifts, and personal growth, as well as teens and young adults working through self-esteem, school-related issues, or uncertainty about the future. I'm also a certified Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) provider, supporting those managing chronic pain from a mind-body perspective. Clients who are looking for a therapist who understands the importance of culture, identity, and values often find my approach relatable. As the daughter of Jamaican immigrants, I bring a culturally sensitive perspective, and I strive to create an inclusive, affirming space for people from diverse backgrounds. I also offer the option to integrate Christian faith into therapy for those who desire it. Overall, I aim to provide a safe and supportive environment where clients can take a deep breath, unload what they’ve been carrying, and begin the process of healing and transformation.
About Shanelle Damaso
Appointments
VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. When one area is out of balance, it can impact the others—so we work together to identify where they might feel stuck and explore healthier patterns that support growth and well-being. My goal is to help clients shift unhelpful thought cycles, build emotional awareness, and take empowered action. I often say, “Positive mind, positive outcome”—because no one deserves to live in a brain that’s constantly critical.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
I use Solution-Focused Brief Therapy SFBT to help clients focus on what’s working now, what’s possible, and what the client wants to be different in the future. We set goals, explore your strengths and resources, and look for exceptions in your life when the problem wasn't happening or was happening less. This helps us find clues to what works. This is ideal for those who want short-term, practical, and fast-acting support in their therapy experience.
Eclectic
I blend evidence-based practices with what feels most helpful in the moment, whether that’s introducing a new skill, exploring what’s weighing you down, or just being fully present with you. I personalize each client's therapy experience to their individual goals and needs.