My name is Shannon (she/her), and I am a Resident in Counseling with a Master of Music degree in vocal performance and a Master of Science degree in pastoral counseling. My unique expertise lies in the integration of my musical and counseling backgrounds, creating a dynamic and creative approach that contributes to the development of my clients psychological flexibility, mindfulness, and resilience.

I create a spiritually inclusive and supportive environment in my work with individuals and couples, welcoming diversity across age, race, culture, gender, and sexual orientation. I am passionate about helping children, teens, and adults discover their authentic voice. Tuning into unique strengths, I aim to build awareness and assist in finding meaning and direction in times of dissonance, change, and challenge. Additionally, I am a trained Prepare/Enrich facilitator, and I enjoy helping engaged, dating, and married couples deepen their relationships by identifying areas of growth, strengthening communication, and establishing shared values.

I specialize in working with life transitions, anxiety, career and identity discernment, parenting, relationship issues, grief and loss, spiritual struggles, and LGBTQ+ concerns. Furthermore, I have a special interest in supporting individuals in caregiving roles, particularly addressing the challenges faced by the sandwich generation. Additionally, I provide support to women navigating experiences related to motherhood, including pregnancy and postpartum journeys.

My Story

As the daughter of two professional choral conductors, music has been like a second language for me from the very beginning- a source of self-expression, hope, and healing that has enabled me to connect deeply with others and with my own spirit. I have been drawn to the creative arts for as long as I can remember- seeking out color, sound, movement, and drama as a bridge between emotion and understanding, and as a way to find resonance and meaning amidst the many joys and challenges of life. Through seasons of career discernment, marriage, parenting three children, and now almost empty nesting, the arts have served as a constant companion in times of transition, providing light and strength for the journey.

My love for singing has found various outlets in performing, directing, and teaching over the years, and in working with students to free their singing voice, I have discovered a true passion for helping people connect with their inner voice as well. It was this passion that led me to pursue a degree in pastoral counseling, a holistic approach to therapy that honors the mind, body, and spirit of diverse populations in fostering growth, healing, and wholeness. I am grateful for the various ways I can integrate my counseling approach with my love of the arts at Renew Art Therapy, living out my heartfelt values of empowering and uplifting others.

I received my Masters of Music degree in Vocal Performance from the University of Illinois.

I received my Masters of Science degree in Pastoral Counseling from Loyola University in Maryland.

CREDENTIALS

Residency License Number : 0704016928