Sheena Kelly

Sheena Kelly, MSMFT LPC(GA), LPCTMHC (SC), LCMHC-A (NC), NCC, is a licensed professional counselor with over 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Sheena has worked in private practice, Community Agencies, and Adoption agencies to develop an overall perspective on individual experiences. Sheena has advanced training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which gives her more tools to aid in the client's journey.

My approach

Therapy is an individualized process, and the most effective approach for one person may not be the best approach for another. We will work collaboratively to determine the most appropriate approach and techniques to meet your unique needs and goals. The top three that I would generally use are Humanistic, Psychodynamic, and Cognitive Behavioral. Humanistic therapy emphasizes the client's subjective experiences and values, and within that, I would provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment to help the client explore their emotions and develop a greater sense of self-awareness and self-acceptance. Psychodynamic therapy is based on the notion that unconscious thoughts and experiences influence our behavior and emotions. Utilizing this approach, I would help the client explore and understand these unconscious factors to promote healing and personal growth. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected and aims to help clients identify and change negative patterns of thinking and behavior. There are many different theoretical approaches to therapy, and I may use a variety of approaches depending on the client's needs and goals.

My focus

Typically, I would work with clients from ages 13-99 whose anxiety and depression are interfering with their daily life. These clients could have just begun to experience symptoms of these diagnoses, have been experiencing them due to trauma, or these things are displaying them due to relational issues. I work with individuals and couples to develop the skills to tackle these symptoms directly.

My communication style

The tone and environment of a therapy session are tailored to the client's individual preferences and needs. I like to create a safe and supportive environment that fosters growth and healing, while also respecting the client's unique perspective and experiences.

My journey to mental healthcare

I wanted to become a person who aided in social change. From a young age, I encountered those who went through many heavy situations and tried to move forward in life as if nothing happened. I saw how quickly that strategy did not work. During my time as a Preschool Director, I saw how much not only the individual needed support but also the family unit. I went into therapy because I wanted to understand how to break the cycle of “just pushing through it” and aid those to enhance their foundational happiness.

My goals for you

When it comes to goal setting with clients, I believe in taking a holistic approach. It's important to understand the client's big-picture goals and then break them down into smaller, achievable objectives. My approach to goal setting with clients is collaborative and focused on achieving tangible results. First, I start by asking the client what their overall goals are. Once I understand their overall goal, I start to break it down into smaller objectives that are more manageable. Next, I work with the client to determine specific, measurable, and time-bound objectives that will lead them to achieve their overall goal. Throughout the goal-setting process, I emphasize the importance of setting realistic and achievable goals. It's important for clients to feel motivated and confident in their ability to achieve their objectives. I also stress the importance of tracking progress toward goals to help clients stay on track and adjust as needed.

My first session with you

During a first therapy session, clients can expect us to begin to build a therapeutic connection. We will dive into their life story so that I could better understand what plays a part in who they are today. It is hard to open up to a stranger and be vulnerable so I will work within what feels safe to the client. The collaborative work begins at the initial meeting. Clients may feel emotionally drained even if they don’t initially expect it to be due to unearthing many things the brain has worked hard to bury. In order to prepare for their first therapy session, clients can take some time to think about their personal goals for therapy, which can help to establish a strong plan for treatment.