Shawn Lightburn

Welcome! I'm Shawn Lightburn, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated to providing individuals, couples, and families with a supportive and empowering therapeutic experience. With over 10 years of experience in diverse settings, including schools, child welfare, and private practice, I offer a client-centered approach to help you navigate life's challenges and achieve greater well-being.

My path to becoming a therapist wasn't a straight line, but rather a journey woven with diverse experiences that shaped my understanding of the human spirit. Early in my career, working in child welfare and community mental health, I witnessed the resilience of families facing adversity, the strength of individuals overcoming trauma, and the transformative power of connection. These experiences ignited a passion within me to provide a safe and supportive space for healing and growth.

As a School Social Worker, I've had the privilege of supporting students in navigating academic, social, and emotional challenges, fostering a belief in their potential. This work, combined with my experience in private practice, has equipped me with a deep understanding of the complexities of individual and family dynamics.

I hold a Master of Social Work from Hunter College - Silberman School of Social Work, and my practice is built on a foundation of evidence-based modalities. My commitment is to provide a culturally humble and empathetic approach, tailoring therapy to your unique needs and goals. I believe that everyone has the capacity for positive change, and I'm here to walk alongside you on that journey.

My therapeutic approach is deeply personalized, professional, warm, empathetic, and hopeful. I practice from a diverse range of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)-informed approaches, psychodynamic, solution-focused therapy, family systems, and person-centered techniques. Whether you're navigating difficult emotions, managing stress, or seeking personal growth, I'm here to support you. I address a wide range of issues, including: anxiety, depression, trauma, stress management, life transitions, self-esteem and personal growth, couples therapy, communication issues, and family therapy. Together, we'll embark on a collaborative journey to uncover insights into challenges that may have impeded your healing and growth.

In our sessions, you can expect an atmosphere of non-judgmental acceptance, warmth, and safety. I strive to be a source of encouragement and support, working alongside you to achieve treatment goals and enhance overall well-being. Let's embark on a path of discovery and empowerment together.