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Shannon Barksdale, CMHC, Intern

Clinical Mental Health Counselor

I am an Intern at our Meadowlands clinic who provides therapy services!

I welcome clients of all ages who are looking for a supportive, person-centered therapy experience. I particularly enjoy working with adults who are struggling with relationship difficulties, whether with partners, family members, or within themselves. Looking ahead, I am pursuing certification in marriage and family therapy to further support couples and families in creating meaningful, lasting change in their relationships.

My practice is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and respect for each individual’s unique story and goals. As I continue to grow and learn more about my own personal theoretical passions, I would enjoy more experiences to create a more well-rounded profile. While I do not have experience with trauma or clients suffering from abuse, I am currently working to improve my skills to better assess these clients in the future.

As I am currently a student in the clinical counseling field, I cannot yet claim a formal specialty. However, what I can speak to is the deep passion and commitment I bring to this work. As a student, I am fortunate to be learning from some of the most knowledgeable and compassionate professionals in the field—mentors who generously share their expertise, clinical wisdom, and love for the counseling profession. Their guidance is shaping not only my academic understanding but also the kind of clinician I aspire to become.

Beyond the classroom, my life experience as a mother to six incredible children has given me invaluable insight into the emotional world of young people. Each of my children brings their own strengths and faces their own mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, OCD, and autism spectrum disorder. Walking alongside them has taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of individualized support. This lived experience informs my approach and strengthens my desire to work with children and adolescents who are struggling. I understand, both personally and professionally, how powerful it can be for a young person to feel truly seen, heard, and supported in their healing journey.

What I want every potential client to know is that I am deeply dedicated to you as an individual—not just as a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. I believe in seeing the whole person, with all of their strengths, struggles, and potential. My passion for this work is rooted in a genuine drive to help others heal, grow, and reconnect—with themselves and with those they love. I have a deep love for communication, unity, and family, and I strive to create a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported every step of the way.

Whether you are a child learning to navigate big emotions, a teen seeking clarity and confidence, a parent trying to hold it all together, or a couple longing to reconnect—I am here to walk alongside you. I find so much meaning in helping couples rediscover love and mutual appreciation, and in guiding them as they build healthier communication and stronger bonds. Every person’s journey matters, and I am honored to be a part of it. If you’re ready to take that next step toward healing and connection, I would love to be a part of your story. You don’t have to do this alone.