LCSW, 10 years of experience
New to Grow
Hi, my name is Shay! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been in the behavioral health field for over a decade, with a broad array of experience. I'm a dedicated clinician who believes in the power of transformation through reconnecting the mind, body, and spirit. With training in addictions treatment, DBT and CBT, Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction, a strengths-based and solution-focused perspective, and certification as a yoga and meditation teacher, I blend evidence-based techniques with mindful practices to nurture recovery, resilience, and empowerment.
In our first session, you'll step into a warm, welcoming space where we'll set clear expectations together. I’ll introduce myself, share a little about my approach, and we’ll begin to break the ice so you feel safe and valued. We’ll start with a brief biopsychosocial review, exploring your physical, emotional, and social well-being. Next, we'll have a focused conversation about your personal history and goals, which will naturally lead to a flexible treatment plan tailored to your needs. I’m here to provide support and offer suggestions; we’re in this together, creating a plan that feels right for you. Finally, you'll leave with clear next steps and any questions answered—all designed to give you peace of mind and confidence in your journey ahead.
Clients often notice that my compassionate, strengths-based, and solution-focused methods not only provide relief in the moment but also lead to lasting transformation. Together, we'll explore your unique challenges and dreams, carefully mapping out where you'd like to be in the next month, six months, or a year. I’ll help you identify meaningful strategies and options that feel right for your journey. By the end of each session, you’ll have a clear sense of the immediate steps you can take, empowering you to move forward with confidence. Our collaboration is open and flexible, always welcoming your thoughts and adjustments, and I’m here to support you every step of the way—holding space for accountability and growth.
I am best positioned to serve adults who are facing challenges related to substance misuse or addiction, especially when these concerns are coupled with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, or major life transitions. If you’re someone who’s seeking a strengths-based, solution-focused approach, and you’re ready to embrace evidence-based practices enriched by mindfulness and holistic healing, then we may be a great match. My goal is to support those who are courageous enough to acknowledge their struggles and eager to transform their experiences into opportunities for growth and recovery. In our work together, I use a strengths-based, solution-focused approach, empowering you to tap into your inherent potential for healing and growth. Drawing on modalities like DBT and CBT, we’ll collaborate to develop effective tools to manage emotions, reshape unhelpful thought patterns, and build healthier habits. Additionally, as a certified yoga and meditation teacher, I firmly believe in the transformative power of reconnecting mind, body, and spirit. Through mindfulness-based recovery practices, we'll cultivate a deep sense of inner safety and resilience that guides you towards meaningful change. My goal is to help you reclaim balance and create a future where every challenge is met with strength and self-compassion.
I have extensive experience using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) as a cornerstone of my practice. I employ CBT to help clients identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns, replace them with balanced perspectives, and develop practical strategies for managing emotions and behaviors. This structured yet collaborative approach empowers clients to actively participate in their recovery, fostering long-term coping skills and personal growth.
Over the years, I've seen how grounding in the body can enhance self-awareness, reduce stress, and empower clients to take ownership of their recovery. This integrated method forms the basis of my collaborative, personalized treatment plans, fostering both immediate relief and lasting transformation.
I have extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and have successfully integrated it into my practice to help clients navigate intense emotional experiences. I use DBT to equip clients with practical skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, creating a structured framework that fosters both immediate relief and ongoing personal growth. By combining individual sessions with skill-building exercises, I empower clients to manage challenges effectively and build a lasting, balanced approach to life.
I have a rich background in person-centered therapy, embracing Carl Rogers’ core principles of empathy, unconditional positive regard, and authenticity. In my practice, I create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings freely, empowering you to tap into your inner wisdom. This approach supports your natural journey toward personal growth and self-discovery, fostering a collaborative and nurturing environment for transformation.
I integrate psychoeducation into my practice as a way to empower and inform clients about the intricacies of mental health. By sharing clear, evidence-based information about emotional processes, stress responses, and self-care strategies, I help you build a better understanding of what you're experiencing. This informed perspective not only demystifies your challenges but also equips you with practical tools to actively engage in your recovery and personal growth.