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Shelly Rucker

LCSW, 20 years of experience

New to Grow

Virtual
Next available on

About me

Welcome—I'm truly glad you're here. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Level 2 trained Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist, I am passionate about helping people live happier and healthier lives. My 20 years in the field—spanning hospitals, psychiatric facilities, military communities, and non-profit organizations—have taught me that healing is possible and that every person's journey is unique. Reaching out takes real strength, and I'm honored to be part of your story.

Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

In our first session, we'll review some initial paperwork and then explore what brought you to therapy. We'll discuss your background, current concerns and clarify your goals for our work together. This session is an opportunity to see if we're a good fit and begin building a trusting relationship. I welcome any questions you have about the therapy process or what to expect moving forward. My goal is for you to leave feeling seen, heard, and hopeful about the path ahead.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

I am known to create a warm, steady presence with clients—a safe space where all emotions are welcome, no matter how difficult. Through active listening and genuine presence, I create room for you to explore your experiences at your own pace. Even when the work feels hard, you can count on me to stay grounded and patient.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

Have you ever asked yourself, "Why do I keep doing this? There has to be a better way"—only to find yourself caught in the same pattern despite your best efforts to change? Or maybe you lie awake replaying conversations, critiquing what you said, wishing you'd handled things differently. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. I work with adults seeking support to manage overwhelming emotions, process difficult life experiences, and navigate inner conflicts like self-criticism and overthinking. Many of my clients are looking for ways to connect more genuinely with others while showing up more authentically in their own lives. I have experience supporting survivors of trauma, individuals navigating anxiety and depression, members of the military community, parents adjusting to the demands of parenthood, those facing health challenges, and people processing grief, loss, or significant life transitions. My ideal clients tend to be introspective and open to growth—they want to understand their patterns, reconnect with their strengths, and move toward healing by applying new insights and practical skills in their daily lives. If this resonates with you, I encourage you to reach out. I'd be honored to support you on your healing journey.

Specialties

Top specialties

Other specialties

First Responders/Healthcare WorkersGriefMilitary/VeteransPerinatal Mental HealthSelf Esteem

I identify as

Serves ages

My treatment methods

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

I use Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help clients explore the different 'parts' of themselves—each carrying its own emotions, perspectives, and protective intentions. Rather than fighting internal conflicts, this compassionate approach helps clients understand and harmonize these parts, creating space for healing. Through IFS, clients can process difficult life experiences and discover how past wounds may be influencing their present-day relationships and well-being.

Mindfulness-Based Therapy

I use mindfulness to help clients tune into the present moment and notice what's showing up for them—whether thoughts, feelings, or sensations—with a sense of curiosity and kindness rather than judgment

Solution Focused Brief Treatment

Through Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), I work from the belief that clients already have what they need to create positive change. My role is to help them recognize and amplify what's working, reconnect with their inherent strengths, and discover how to apply these resources to their current situation.

Trauma Informed Care

I recognize that trauma is common and can deeply shape how people think, feel, and relate to themselves and others. My approach prioritizes creating both physical and emotional safety in our therapeutic relationship, providing a foundation where clients can explore their experiences at their own pace and engage in meaningful healing.

Location

Virtual

Licensed in

New to Grow
This provider hasn’t received any written reviews yet. We started collecting written reviews January 1, 2025.