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About Crystal Shields

Personally, I became a therapist because I received great therapy myself.  Growing through my own struggles has been a beautiful development.  It is my life’s mission to join others in healthily progressing through their challenges so they, too, may achieve healthier, happier and more successful lives.   

I find it easy and enjoyable to connect with all different types of people with all different types of challenges.  I have worked with clients of all ages that have included individuals, couples, families and groups.  I have provided therapy in various settings such as: offices, homes, schools, and residential treatment facilities as well as online and over the telephone.  All of this just means my clinical experience is broad, and I appreciate the variety because of what it has taught me.   

I prioritize ongoing education in order to be of the best help possible.  I have double Bachelor’s degrees in Health Sciences as well as double Master’s degrees in Therapy and Counseling.  I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC).  Additionally, I am a certified health coach and am in the process of becoming a certified life coach.  I love learning and using new skills in my personal life and, of course, with my clients. 

PRACTICE

My typical areas of practice include: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship/parenting/family issues, self-esteem/confidence/codependency issues, behavioral issues such as self-harm and anger management, grief/loss, and coping with life’s changes such as those related to the circumstances of COVID-19.  If you want extra support right now, you are nowhere near alone!  Getting “stuck” is normal, and everyone is capable of improving if they consistently put forth effort to do so.  You are taking a big step by seeking help – congratulations! 

My style is non-judgmental, empathetic and supportive.  It is always my first priority to help you feel comfortable with fully expressing yourself because that is essential for us to have a great therapeutic relationship and for the most progress to occur.  I will meet you right where you are in your unique experience.  You are the expert of your life, and I will do my best to understand it before doing anything else.  When you need a safe space to vent to a trained and trusted listener, I can do that.  When you need teaching, planning and an accountability partner, I can definitely do that too.  I will help you gain new insight into how your past experiences have contributed to your current patterns of functioning.  We will identify and use your personal strengths as well as learn, practice and implement new skills that will help you evolve.  Together, we will act as a team that supports your movement along the path toward achieving your goals.  We will evaluate your progress regularly and I will obtain your feedback so I can adjust my approach in order to best meet your needs.  With me, therapy is all about you and what works best for you!  It would be my pleasure and honor to be a collaborative part of your personal growth process. 

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