Mary Shands

Mary Shands is a Licensed Professional Counselor licensed to practice in both Missouri and Texas with more than 12 years of experience supporting clients from pre-K through late adulthood. Her professional background spans work as a school counselor in special education and general education, roles within an insurance company, services for veterans, and positions at a substance abuse treatment center and a sexual offender treatment center.

Mary addresses a wide range of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting problems, emotional abuse, and separation issues related to adoption. She also works with stress, addictions, family conflict, grief, intimacy-related issues, eating and sleeping disorders, anger management, self-esteem, career difficulties, bipolar disorder, coping with life changes, coaching, compassion fatigue, ADHD, and LGBT-related concerns, as well as issues affecting women and teens.

Her clinical approach draws from several evidence-informed methods: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Therapy. Mary brings strong listening skills, a caring attitude, and an energetic manner to sessions, and she remains current on required trainings while also providing presentations and training at various venues.

Mary is experienced in assisting those with mental health needs related to COVID-19 and medical diagnosis, as well as people dealing with codependency and self-esteem concerns. She maintains a warm, approachable demeanor and enjoys both talking with and listening to others as they work toward their goals.