Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California and hold a Master of Social Work degree from the University at Albany, State University of New York . I have an extensive background in community and school-based mental health and over the course of my career have served adults, adolescents and families with diverse backgrounds and life experiences in a variety of settings. I believe very strongly in each person’s capacity for growth and change and strive to find ways to help people live with greater meaning, satisfaction, and choice.

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

The number one contributing factor in making progress in therapy is the relationship you have with your therapist, so in our first session together we will focus on getting to know each other and building trust and relationship through conversation. I want you to feel at ease talking about what challenges bring you to therapy, so that together we can identify goals meaningful to you and see how you can and want to grow.

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

You will find my style to be warm, authentic and engaging. I bring a natural curiosity and empathy to my work, so you will feel seen, heard, and less alone in working through the negative patterns or challenges you face. My greatest strength is my sensitivity to the needs of my clients and ability to build safe and trusted relationships with each of them.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

I love working with adolescents and adults who have taken the brave step of acknowledging their struggles and made the decision to prioritize their mental health and emotional well-being. They are often feeling mentally exhausted, consistently sad, or just plain overwhelmed and they are ready to feel better, but not sure where to start.

About Colleen Shoop