Hello and welcome! I started Unleash Your Authenticity Counseling with one goal in mind: to help you connect with and be your authentic self. Too often, I hear people say they are afraid to be themselves, express their thoughts and feelings, or pursue their goals because they’ve been judged, criticized, or made to believe they aren’t good enough. Over time, these experiences can lead to self-doubt, anxiety, depression, or even feeling disconnected from who you are. I know firsthand how that feels because I’ve been there too. My mission is to create a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment, and finally let go of the lies you’ve been told about yourself.

Why did I become a therapist?

This one hits me deeply. As someone who has watched my loved ones struggle, and have struggled myself, to feel good enough, accepted, or less alone, I wanted to help others move forward and away from that pain.

What do sessions with me look like?

I will greet you with warmth, compassion, and curiosity. In our sessions, you take the lead. You decide what feels most important or pressing to talk about, I’ll ask thoughtful, open-ended questions to help you dive deeper into your thoughts and feelings. This allows us both to gain a clearer understanding of your experiences. I love using humor with my clients because therapy doesn’t have to be heavy and serious all the time. Laughter can be a powerful tool for connection, perspective, and even healing. Sometimes, a well-timed joke can help lighten the weight of difficult topics, making it easier to explore them with openness and curiosity.

Professional Background

I’m a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC), currently pursuing a PhD with a focus on psychodynamic therapy. With over 12 years of professional and clinical experience, and a lifelong understanding of what it means to be human, I bring expertise, empathy, compassion, and a deep commitment to helping others heal and grow.

In the early years of my career I specialized in substance abuse and addiction, working with adolescents and adults in both group and individual therapy. This work deepened my interest in trauma and PTSD, shaping my continued education and clinical approach. My professional focus has expanded to include trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, self-esteem struggles, and addiction. I am passionate about helping others rediscover themselves when they feel lost or uncertain about their path. I specialize in working with adults ages 18 and older.

Beyond the Session

When I’m not working, I enjoy taking care of my house plants, playing with my puppy, working on jigsaw puzzles, doing paint by numbers, creating pottery, playing card games (hearts ♥️ and spades ♠️), exploring coffee shops and downtown areas, spending time with my family and friends, playing pool 🎱 , cooking, and learning about holistic health.

Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or wanting a fresh start, I’m here to provide a compassionate space where your story is heard, and your journey is supported every step of the way. Together, we will explore the barriers that keep you from embracing your full potential, work through the struggles that weigh on you, and move toward a place of healing, growth, and self-discovery.

If my approach and experience align with what you're looking for, I’d love to connect. Whether you’re navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, addiction, or relationship challenges, you don’t have to do it alone. Together, we can work toward rediscovering the path that feels right for you.

If you're ready to take the next step, you may:

email me at shayna@uyacounseling.com

call or text 248-716-4196

or send me a message here

You may also schedule your first session here:

I look forward to hearing from you!