Shaya Schtroks, LCSW - Therapist at Grow Therapy

Shaya Schtroks

Shaya Schtroks

LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual

Have you ever looked at your life and thought, "This isn't how I pictured it"? I love helping people who are ready to dig into what's really holding them back. Life's patterns – whether it's constantly checking your phone, turning to food or pornography when stressed, or repeating family dynamics you swore you'd never repeat – can feel like quicksand. Together, we'll tackle your specific challenges, whether that's depression that won't lift, anxiety that keeps you up at night, or trauma that still affects your daily choices. Think of me as your co-navigator in this journey – I bring the expertise, but you know your terrain best. Whether you're trying to rebuild trust, kick a habit that's overstayed its welcome, or find your footing after a major change, we'll develop practical strategies that fit into your real life.

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

In our first session, we’ll dive into what brings you here and what you hope to achieve. I believe that real change starts with honest, open conversation, so I’ll encourage you to share your story in whatever way feels right. We’ll discuss your immediate goals and any challenges you’re currently facing. Together, we’ll start sketching out a plan for our work—one that feels manageable and tailored to your unique life. By the end of our session, you’ll leave with a clearer understanding of our approach and a roadmap for creating positive, lasting changes.

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

My personal journey through anxiety and transformative healing gives me an authentic, empathetic approach to our work. I’ve been there, and I know that change is not just possible—it’s achievable with the right support. As a Licenced Clinical Social Worker, Master's level certified addiction professional with training in both DBT and EMDR, I bring both lived experience and clinical expertise to our sessions. I’m also actively engaged in learning about the neuroscience behind personality change, which helps me support clients in rewiring patterns for sustainable emotional well-being.

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

EMDR

As an EMDR-trained practitioner, I offer this evidence-based therapy that helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) enables clients to transform distressing memories into more manageable ones, reducing their emotional charge and physical triggers. Beyond trauma processing, EMDR can also strengthen positive resources and help clients visualize and work toward their desired future with greater confidence.

Dialectical Behavior (DBT)

As a DBT-trained therapist, I provide clients with practical, research-backed strategies for emotional regulation and distress tolerance. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) equips you with concrete tools to navigate intense emotions, stabilize your mood, and move through crisis periods with greater resilience. Through DBT's core components, you'll learn mindfulness practices to stay grounded in the present moment, while developing skills to strengthen relationships and communicate more effectively.

Mindfulness-Based Therapy

Drawing from my background as a daily meditator, former rabbi and my extensive personal practice in mindfulness and yoga, I offer the option to integrate mindfulness techniques into our therapeutic work. If you're interested, we can incorporate these evidence-based practices to enhance your healing journey and develop greater presence and self-awareness.

Person-centered (Rogerian)

My training in Rogerian therapy, also known as Person-Centered or Humanistic therapy, provides the foundation for creating a deeply accepting and growth-promoting therapeutic relationship. This approach recognizes your innate capacity for self-understanding and positive change. Through genuine presence, unconditional positive regard, and empathic understanding, I create a safe space where you can explore your experiences without judgment. This supportive environment allows you to connect with your authentic self, trust your inner wisdom, and move toward greater self-acceptance and personal growth. Rather than prescribing solutions, I walk alongside you as you discover your own path forward.

Positive Psychology

My knowledge of Positive Psychology enhances our work by building on your natural strengths and resilience. While addressing challenges, we'll focus on what helps you thrive—identifying core character strengths, fostering meaningful relationships, and developing practices that boost well-being. This evidence-based approach helps you not only overcome difficulties but build a richer, more purposeful life.

Shaya Schtroks, LCSW