Shavontae McCants

My name is Shavontae McCants and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist based in California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with older teens 16-17 and adults. I specialize in anxiety, life transitions, depression, and chronic illness using an eclectic approach to help my clients make progress to their specific goals.

My approach

I tailor my therapeutic approach to suit the unique needs of every client I assist. While my primary modalities include Eclectic therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-centered therapy, and Solution-focused therapy, I select the approach that best aligns with the client's individual circumstances. These modalities enable us to collaboratively explore their reality, fostering a shared understanding and facilitating our joint efforts to chart a constructive path forward.

My focus

My practice primarily focuses on working with clients who are committed to actively participating in their therapeutic journey. I specialize in assisting individuals who may be grappling with various challenges, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, boundary issues, and chronic illness. I find great fulfillment in collaborating with clients who are motivated to take accountability for their personal growth and healing. Together, we work to explore and address the underlying issues contributing to their struggles, enhance coping strategies, and develop healthier ways of navigating life's complexities. My therapeutic approach is client-centered and empathetic, creating a supportive environment in which individuals and families can embark on a path toward improved mental and emotional well-being.

My communication style

My communication style is grounded in maintaining a calm and empathetic presence, and actively listening to clients without judgment. I prioritize the creation of a secure and confidential space where clients feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and emotions freely. By using open-ended questions and reflective listening, I assist clients in exploring their feelings and gaining valuable insights into their unique situations. The primary goal is to foster self-awareness, facilitate positive transformation, and strengthen the therapeutic connection between us.

My journey to mental healthcare

My personal experiences witnessing the impact of severe mental illness within my own family inspired my career as a therapist. What drives me in this work is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families facing similar challenges. I am passionate about promoting healing, reducing stigma, and helping clients find hope and resilience through therapy. This profession allows me to contribute to a more compassionate and empathetic world, which is a constant source of motivation for me.

My goals for you

My approach to goal setting with clients is all about working together to define what you want to accomplish in our time together. This often starts by building trust between us and getting comfortable with what it means to be in therapy. Over time, we'll work together to set goals and track your progress.

My first session with you

In our first session together, our primary goal is to establish a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship. I'll start by warmly welcoming you and introducing myself, sharing my professional background and credentials. We'll discuss the counseling process, including confidentiality and your rights as a client, ensuring that you feel comfortable and informed. You'll have the opportunity to share your concerns and goals, and we'll work together to set the foundation for our work ahead. I'll listen attentively, ask questions to better understand your situation, and explain how my therapeutic approach aligns with your needs. We'll collaboratively set goals and expectations, and I'll answer any questions or address any concerns you may have. By the end of our first session, you'll have a clear understanding of what to expect from our therapeutic journey, and we can decide if we'd like to continue working together to support your well-being and personal growth.