Hi there, My name is Shardae Collins. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of California, Washington, Nevada, and Massachusetts. I have over a decade of experience working with individuals and families with various needs in the field of education, health, and social services. For the past 6 years, I've worked with individuals across the lifespan as a Clinical Social Worker providing therapeutic case management and individual therapy. In particular, I have worked with veterans, transitional-age youth, children and families experiencing crisis and trauma. I hold a Master of Arts degree in the field of Social Welfare from the University of California Los Angeles. I also hold a Master of Arts & Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology with an emphasis on inequalities and diversities from California State University of Los Angeles. I have held numerous positions as an adjunct professor of sociology, senior research assistant, and as clinical Social worker.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In our first session, we will began with introductions. We will then spend some time discussing the issues that brought you into therapy. We will discuss my approach to therapy. This an opportunity to for you to determine if this is a good fit for you. It's important to have a good relationship with your therapist as this rapport plays a major role in the healing process. I recommend 3 sessions before committing to therapy with me as this is a healing journey and I want you to feel comfortable.

What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?

I provide a non-judgmental safe space for you to freely express yourself. My approach is direct, culturally relevant, sensitive, trauma-informed, and non-shaming. I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, stress, and trauma. I offer individual therapy rooted in mindfulness to individuals across the lifespan. I use evidence-based interventions such as ERP, CBT, DBT, and solution-focused therapy. I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional and Certified Mindfulness Informed Professional. I am also certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I am currently in the process of learning how to utilize lifespan integration therapy in my practice. I have recently completed the level 1 lifespan integration therapy training-a process used to treat trauma and attachment issues. I do not provide couples therapy/family therapy.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

I am very passionate about helping people discover their innate wisdom, strength, and resilience. I find joy in witnessing people let go of old patterns that do not serve them well and discover their authentic selves.

About Shardae L. Collins, LICSW