Counseling Approach + Training

I am a licensed mental health counselor on Bainbridge Island. My perspective is largely psychodynamic, meaning we approach your current concerns with an understanding that this moment is also informed by a lifetime of relationships and experiences. We pay attention to the here and now alongside any longstanding feelings, habits, or beliefs that might be interfering with your efforts to change and grow. I view the counseling relationship itself as a conduit for healing and exploration and often use what’s happening “in the room” to explore what’s happening in the bigger picture of the client’s life. My counseling style is direct, genuine and relationship-based. I often use playfulness and connectedness as tools for healing when appropriate, and I enjoy helping clients develop their own practical tools and skills to live life in a meaningful way. I view counseling as collaborative, where you are the expert in your story and I am here to listen and support.

I most enjoy working with…

pregnant mamas, those who have experienced birth trauma, women/couples with infertility difficulties, postpartum struggles, complex trauma and pregnancy loss. This is a deep passion of mine. My own story plays a part in my love for this type of work. I needed way more emotional/physical/spiritual support, love, honesty, listening than I led myself to believe and so I make it my life’s work to be with women and couples during one of the most vulnerable season in our lives. I found that leaving the home was challenging postpartum. So whether we begin our work during pregnancy or postpartum I offer video sessions to make care more accessible.

couples who are wanting more for themselves, their marriage and their family. In our time together we will have the space to gain awareness of the role you play currently and who you want to become as an individual, as a couple and as a family unit.

adolescents - there are many pressures that this age group experiences: school, social media, family, athletics, extracurricular and spiritual pressures - all battling within to take precedence. This battle can be stressful; and it is important to address how an adolescent’s life is being disrupted and to learn how to navigate these areas with care and understanding.

I work within a Wellness model that promotes collaboration with Chiropractors, Nutrition Therapy Practitioners, Occupational and Physical Therapists, and other practitioners holistic in nature that believe healing comes from within.

I offer 50 minute consults so we can determine if we are a good fit for one another. If we decide to work together I charge the session fee and if not it is free of charge. It is never too late to start the therapeutic work. Please email courtney.shields@gmail.com or call 425.272.5518 to set up a time to connect.