Shelby graduated from the University of Memphis with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She also holds a Master of Arts degree in Education and Bachelor’s degree in Social Work. Shelby has a wealth of experience working with people across the lifespan and from various ethnic/racial backgrounds. Most recently, Shelby provided therapy for adults at U of M’s counseling center. Shelby’s experience also includes work at an eating disorder treatment center, academic coaching program, and in the education and community development sectors. Through her diverse experiences, Shelby saw God’s redemptive power in at work in and through people.

Shelby is thoughtful about how to tailor therapy to the person in the room. Her therapeutic style is integrative but draws from person-centered and relational cultural theories. Shelby believes that every piece of one’s identity (faith, race/ethnicity, gender) informs relationships, experiences, and mental health. She primarily uses EFIT (Emotion-Focused Individual Therapy) and psychodynamic approaches to help clients access their deepest emotions. Shelby aims to help clients address attachment wounds and trauma to better understand their current functioning and view of themselves. Shelby also employs CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) techniques, but does all from the perspective of believing clients can and will experience growth during and after therapy.

Shelby recognizes that there are so many people who believe they are defective or fear rejection if they talk about their struggles (even in the church!). She believes in the good news that God can and will provide growth and healing from painful experiences.

Shelby is originally from California but made Memphis home as a young adult. In her free time, Shelby spends time with her husband and church community group. Shelby enjoys being outside, listening to podcasts, cooking, and making art!

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