Mary Shands, LPC

Mary Shands is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with more than 12 years of experience supporting people from pre-K aged children through late adulthood. She has worked across a variety of settings including school districts in both special education and general education, an insurance company, services for veterans, a substance abuse treatment center, and a sexual offender treatment program.

Throughout her career Mary has assisted clients with a broad range of concerns such as trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship and family conflict, parenting challenges, emotional abuse, and separation issues related to adoption. She also brings experience addressing codependency, women and teen issues, self-esteem concerns, and mental health effects related to COVID-19 and medical diagnosis.

Mary draws on several therapeutic approaches to tailor care to each person, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Reality Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Therapy. As an LPC she holds a state license to practice counseling - a credential that indicates formal training and state approval to provide mental health services.

Known for a warm and caring demeanor, energetic personality, and strong listening skills, Mary also delivers presentations and training in professional venues. Her practice emphasizes practical strategies and a collaborative, client-centered approach to help people navigate life challenges and build greater resilience.