

I work primarily with individual adults who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, sad, lonely, sensitive, anxious, or defeated. I have a lot of experience supporting folks going through losses, whether it's a breakup, losing a job, or a loved one - including loss of a pet, which is a specialty of mine. I have special interest in supporting other therapists, and also community organizers and activists who are engaged in social justice work. Many of my clients are trans or NB, and others are gay, lesbian, or queer. Poly and kink affirming. I offer telehealth services to clients in California, Washington, or Virginia.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Richmond, Virginia, specializing in treating PTSD and dissociation with adults and adolescents (14+). Many clients I work with are rebuilding a sense of felt safety and autonomy after relationships where their choices, voice, or boundaries were repeatedly undermined.
I am licensed in Maryland, Virginia and New Jersey with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. My approach to therapy is solution focused and client centered with a bit of fun and humor. I believe that a simple and casual approach makes therapy more palatable, allowing for openness and individualism. I work with my clients to find the ways that work for them to reach the goals that they would like to reach. I follow your lead towards achieving your goals
Shakarla Brown is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 7 years of experience. She works with young adults and adults to manage issues like depression, anxiety, ADHD, stress, life transitions, emotional dysregulation, and self-esteem. Shakarla focuses on improving clients' self-worth by challenging negative core beliefs and collaboratively understanding how other contributing factors impact their behaviors and interpersonal relationships. She emphasizes that the progress made outside sessions is just as vital as the work done during them, empowering clients to take control of their healing journey.
Shakarla received her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health from Regent University.
Welcome--I'm glad that you're here. I'm a licensed clinical social worker with a master's degree from the University of Maryland. I specialize in anxiety, panic, OCD, trauma, depression, trust issues, self-esteem, life changes and anger management. I approach every client with openness and without judgment, always appreciating their individuality. I believe everyone has their own story, so I listen carefully and reflect thoughtfully. Beyond that, I work to identify practical solutions to help you achieve your goals and enhance your life.
My journey stems from my own story of resilience in the face of hardships. I became a therapist because I have always wanted to help people through some of their darkest hours. Being exposed to some dark hours myself, I know that it is difficult to do it alone. When you have someone to confide in, assist you through the hard times, and just let you know that you are not alone, makes a difference.
My therapeutic approach includes CBT, Person-Centered Therapy, Relational Therapy, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, SFT, EMT, Gestalt, and just speaking like a human being. I offer a compassionate, trauma-informed space where you can feel safe, seen, and supported. My approach is relational and personalized—we'll explore your story together, build coping tools, and move toward healing with curiosity, courage, and care.
Therapy with me is real, down-to-earth, and never boring. I mix honesty, humor, and heart to make the process comfortable. I help adults manage emotions, build confidence, and tackle life's challenges with tools that work. Think of it as a safe space to be yourself, grow, and maybe laugh along the way.


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