Nanette Shepardson M.A., LPC

I learned the essential skill of developing mutually agreeable relationships with people seeking help.  It requires listening respectfully, without judgment, to what they are saying so they feel fully heard and understood.  I also learned about a new and effective method to help people who witnessed or directly experienced traumatic events.  Following graduation, I completed a rigorous training program to become a somatic experience practitioner (SEP).  It is a body-oriented approach to support people’s ability to manage painful sensations or emotions that can lead to challenging behaviors.  I don’t believe that we are born with these challenges or that something is wrong with us.  I learned that what happened or is happening to us has altered our natural ability to manage them.

The relationship my clients and I develop is essential. That relationship allows us to explore what happened or is happening to you in your life that may cause your body and mind to react in ways that may make you feel uncomfortable or stuck. We will learn how to identify where you physically feel distressing sensations, what you notice about them, what they feel like, and how they may make you feel angry, guilty, or ashamed. Throughout this process, we will determine the best way to support your body’s natural capacity to release that distress so you can start or go back to living your most productive and satisfying life. 

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University, a Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Counseling, and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner specializing in trauma. I incorporate a person-centered approach with my clients using Somatic Experience, Solution-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, Narrative, Experiential Play, and Adventure therapies. I specialize in helping adults, couples, adolescents, and children realize their innate capacity for healing.