Shannon J. Davidenko, LMHC

A BIT ABOUT MY APPROACH TO THERAPY I'm a licensed mental health counselor who provides psychotherapy to adults (ages 18 and older) experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, other mood disorders, sleep difficulties, parenting challenges, or life transitions. My approach is collaborative and person-centered, grounded in empathy, respect, and curiosity. I integrate evidence-based practices—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Strength-Based Therapy, Supportive Therapy, and Goal-Oriented strategies—to help clients build insight and develop skills that support meaningful and lasting change. WHAT TO EXPECT IN A FIRST SESSION The first session is all about creating a safe and welcoming space. I'll begin by sharing more about my therapeutic style, then take time to learn what brings you to therapy. We’ll also explore your strengths, interests, and goals. By the end of our initial meeting, we’ll begin to outline personalized treatment goals together, ensuring your voice and priorities are heard from the start. WHAT A TYPICAL SESSION LOOKS LIKE After the initial assessment, ongoing sessions are typically 40–55 minutes, depending on your needs. We’ll start with a brief check-in, review any tools or strategies from previous sessions, and discuss how they’re working for you. From there, you’ll have space to share any challenges, symptoms, stressors, or achievements. I’ll offer supportive feedback and therapeutic skills tailored to what’s most relevant in your life. We’ll end each session by choosing a focus or skill to work on and reflect on what felt most helpful, ensuring we stay aligned with your goals as we move forward. MY JOURNEY TO BECOMING A THERAPIST My path to becoming a therapist wasn’t linear. I first earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and Secondary Education with the intention of teaching high school English. Over time, I realized my passion was in working closely with individuals and small groups to help them navigate personal challenges, not in managing large classrooms. That realization led me to pursue a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Lesley University, where I specialized in school and community counseling. During my graduate training, I completed internships in both outpatient mental health and school guidance settings. Since then, I’ve worked across a variety of behavioral health settings—including outpatient, inpatient, and community-based services—providing individual, couples, and family therapy, as well as crisis intervention. I’ve also held leadership roles, including serving as an Associate Site Director, where I supervised staff and interns. These diverse experiences have shaped my therapeutic style and deepened my commitment to providing compassionate, individualized care in my private practice. READY TO GET STARTED? If you’re interested in scheduling a brief 20-30 minute complimentary consultation with me, please send an appointment request. I look forward to connecting with you.