LaShaunda Durham

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate (LCASA), and National Certified Counselor (NCC) with experience providing therapy in school-based, outpatient, and residential settings. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral concerns, substance use, and difficulties with self-worth and identity.

My approach is compassionate, authentic, and empowering. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable being themselves while also feeling supported to grow. I understand that many of the individuals I work with have experienced trauma, life stressors, or complex family dynamics, and I approach therapy through a trauma-informed lens.

Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply looking for support, my goal is to meet you where you are and help you move toward a healthier, more confident version of yourself. You don’t have to navigate this alone. I’m here to support you every step of the way.

My approach to therapy is collaborative, trauma-informed, and tailored to each individual’s unique needs. I believe therapy should feel like a safe, supportive space where you can be open and honest while also being challenged to grow. I work alongside my clients not as an authority over them but to help them better understand themselves and make meaningful, lasting changes.

I utilize an integrated therapy approach, recognizing that no two clients are alike and that a single approach does not work for everyone. By drawing from multiple evidence-based modalities, I am able to tailor treatment to best fit each client’s experiences, goals, and strengths.

I integrate approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and person-centered therapy. Depending on your needs, we may focus on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns, building emotional regulation skills, improving communication, or increasing motivation for change.

I also place a strong emphasis on practical skill-building. My goal is not just to talk through challenges, but to equip you with tools you can use in your everyday life. Whether that’s managing anxiety, navigating relationships, coping with stress, or making healthier decisions.

Above all, I strive to create a space that is warm, authentic, and nonjudgmental. I understand that starting therapy can feel overwhelming, and I work at a pace that feels comfortable for you while still helping you move forward. Together, we’ll focus on helping you feel more confident, in control, and supported in your journey.

Your first session is all about getting comfortable and beginning to build a strong foundation. I focus on creating a warm, welcoming, and nonjudgmental environment where you can feel safe to share at your own pace. I understand that starting therapy can feel overwhelming, so there is no pressure to “have it all figured out.”

During this session, we will talk about what brought you to therapy, any current challenges you’re experiencing, and what you hope to gain from the process. I may ask questions about your background, relationships, and overall well-being to better understand your experiences and needs.

We will also begin identifying initial goals for therapy, whether that’s improving emotional regulation, reducing anxiety or depression, building healthier relationships, or increasing self-confidence. I will work collaboratively with you to ensure your goals feel realistic, meaningful, and tailored specifically to you.

You can expect a supportive and conversational style, along with gentle guidance and structure. By the end of the session, my goal is for you to feel heard, understood, and more at ease with the process. This is the first step toward positive change, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’ll be here to support you along the way.