Shannon Hays is a Licensed Professional Counselor, dedicated and compassionate with a deep specialization in trauma and grief. Throughout her extensive career, she has been driven by a profound commitment to helping individuals navigate the complexities of their emotional world, guiding them on their path to healing. Shannon’s own lived experiences have provided her with a unique and empathetic perspective, enabling her to connect with clients on a deeper level and understand the nuances of their struggles. She creates a compassionate and safe space for processing and healing from trauma and loss. Whether clients are dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic event, living with complex trauma, grieving, or facing daily challenges such as anxiety and ADHD, Shannon is there to support them. She also has extensive experience working with individuals struggling with addictions and eating disorders.

Shannon’s approach to therapy is holistic and evidence-based, integrating a variety of therapeutic modalities tailored to each client’s unique needs. These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), , Somatic Therapies, Narrative therapies and Internal Family Systems (IFS). She is a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.

As a Registered Yoga Teacher and Meditation Facilitator, Shannon incorporates mindfulness, yoga, and meditation into her practice. She recognizes the profound connection between the mind and body in the healing process, emphasizing the importance of nurturing both physical and emotional well-being. Her mind-body approach to therapy reflects her belief that true healing involves addressing all aspects of an individual. A crucial part of her work is helping clients achieve nervous system regulation, understanding how trauma and stress impact the body, and employing techniques to restore balance and calm.

Shannon’s educational background includes a Master’s in Counseling with a focus on trauma, a Master’s in Public Health with a focus on trauma, and a Post-Master’s Certificate in Trauma. Her journey in mental health care is deeply personal and professional, informed by both her academic achievements and her own experiences with trauma and recovery. Shannon believes in the power of a supportive and empathetic therapeutic relationship to foster resilience and recovery. Using a bottom-up approach, she strives to create a therapeutic environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to explore their innermost experiences and emotions. Together, she works with clients to uncover their strength, embrace their true selves, and build a life filled with hope, peace, and fulfillment.