Santay Shaw Russell

I specialize in mood disorders (including depression and bipolar disorder), anxiety (generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety), and trauma-related conditions including PTSD. I am deeply committed to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health — and I understand firsthand how shame and silence can stand in the way of healing and daily functioning. Outside of work, I'm a parent who enjoys going to the pool and playing board games with my children, which keeps me grounded in the everyday joys that matter most.

My approach is rooted in three core values: empathy, respect, and presence. I believe every person deserves to feel truly seen and heard without judgment. I bring the ability to stay grounded and steady even when the work gets difficult — meeting clients in their chaos and fear without being swept away by it. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe enough to be honest, and supported enough to grow.

Many clients come to their first session feeling overwhelmed, ashamed, or afraid of being judged — and that's completely understandable. In our first meeting, I will not rush past those feelings. We'll take time to get to know each other, talk about what's bringing you in, and begin building a foundation of trust. There's no pressure to share more than you're ready to. My job in that first session is simply to make sure you leave feeling a little less alone in what you're carrying.