LGBT therapists in Bethesda, MD

Dr. Shannon Howard is a highly sought-after professional counselor and CEO of SinClair McCoy, LLC. She serves as a sexual relationship specialist who focuses on assisting women and men with healing from childhood trauma surrounding sexual abuse.

Dr. Howard is also a a practitioner who focuses on the mental health care needs of first responders, law enforcement, healthcare workers, and government personnel.

Her extensive educational background consists of dual degrees in both Counseling and Clinical Psychology with a focus on Philosophy and Women’s Studies. She also possesses specialized training in trauma relating to the treatment of sex offenders and survivors of sexual assault.

She believes that every client is unique in their way and that each person’s story is different. This is the catalyst behind her coaching methodology. Using targeted strategies and personalized coaching approaches, she works with couples and individuals to help them transition from victim to victor.

Dr. Howard helps clients face their past trauma by uncovering and resolving the root issue, assessing desired outcomes, and implementing a plan of action that leads them toward living a more optimal life experience.

She is the author under the alias Sinclair McCoy of The Alternative book trilogy. She speaks nationally to the masses on a variety of topics including:

-Life After Sexual Abuse

-Finding Your Sexy After Sexual Abuse

-Regaining Your Body Trust

She is the owner of a private practice AND co-owner/ managing partner of a group practice in Maryland. She has been in the counseling field since 2002 and is passionate to serve a variety of clientele.

Her clients are located in the D. C. and MD states.

I started my career in social work with Meals on Wheels, moved on to Big Brothers Big Sisters, and then to the Department of Social Services. Over the last 2+ decades I’ve worked with individuals, groups, families, and couples (inpatient and outpatient). Most recently, I felt called to do more to help individuals move through adulthood with acceptance and healing. That’s what led me here, fulfilling my lifelong dream to be a therapist, counselor, and life coach.

I’m glad you’re here. I'm passionate about working with couples and individuals. Cooperatively, we navigate relationships, family issues, trauma, anxiety, depression and more. Healing happens through relationships rooted in reciprocity and respect. I strive to create a space where you feel safe, supported and understood. My approach is collaborative and down-to-earth. You don’t need to have everything figured out... we’ll move forward together at a pace that feels right for you.

I am a Board certified clinical social worker with nearly 40 years of experience in helping people navigate the therapy process. Seeking help takes courage, but the benefit of getting therapy is immense and can be life changing and life affirming. Most of my career I have helped people suffering from chronic medical illnesses and the anxiety, depression, and medical trauma (PTSD), they can face. I am comfortable with all medical diagnoses, but specialize with helping patients who struggle with, POTS, EDS, CRPS, Chronic Pain, Spina Bifida, Cerebral Palsy, Intellectual Disability, and autism spectrum disorder. I also have treated ADHD, ODD, and sexual and physical trauma.

When was the last time you felt truly heard? Life can feel as though you're stuck in a maze without a map or sense of purpose. You may feel broken, alone, or depressed, but you're not. I've successfully helped clients work through challenges, learn effective coping skills, and view life in a realistic, positive way. I've helped clients with chronic illness maximize their quality of life. We'll set up a plan that meets your current needs, then empower you to reach your goals, together.