Last edited 03/23/2026

Emily C Shelton
Accepting New Clients
Get To Know Me
Were there lessons in your professional or academic career that left an impression on you, and how has that informed your work today?
The biggest lesson I was taught and instill in myself today is to never work harder than my client. I will help you and be there for you every step of the way. However, I will not do more work than you in the process; this is for you, not me, and you have to want it for yourself.
What does success look like in therapy? How will a client know that they are making progress?
Success in therapy can look like many things- a decrease in symptoms, completing a task you have been avoiding or wanting to accomplish, or simply feeling a little better as time goes on. You will be able to feel it when you are making progress; you will noticing you are caring for yourself more, you are accomplishing goals you set, you are giving yourself more grace, your symptoms are decreasing and more manageable, etc.
In what ways does your personality influence your approach to therapy?
I believe in free expression and meeting my clients where they are at in the moment. If silence is needed, we can be silent for a moment. I do not try to filter my clients and allow them to speak and interact in whatever ways they are comfortable while still keeping professional boundaries in tact.
Specialties
Specializes in
AnxietyAddictionMood disordersSubstance abuseWomen's issues
General Expertise
DepressionWork StressLoss/GriefSelf-EsteemBipolar disorderCommunication issuesDependence issuesDrug addiction & abuseSleep & insomnia issuesLife transitionsPost-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)Postpartum depressionSelf HarmStep-family/Blended Family IssuesSuicidal ideationTraumaCoping SkillsAlcohol addiction & abuse
Treatment Approaches
Strength Based TherapyPsychoanalysisMindfulness PracticesPerson-Centered TherapyDialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Motivational InterviewingCompassion-Focused Therapy
Clientele
Types of Therapy
Individual TherapyGroup Therapy
Serves Ages
Young Adults (18-24)Adults (25-65)Seniors (65+)Adolescents (13-17)
Languages
English
Professional Background
LicensureIllinois, LPC, 178.017127
Training/CertificationsCertified Alcohol and Drug CounselorCertified Recovery Support SpecialistDialectical Behavior Therapy
Education
Master of Health Science, Addiction Studies, Governors State University
Work HistoryI have worked in community mental health for a few years where I have conducted both psychoeducational and processing groups, connected clients to resources, and conducted individual sessions. Before graduation while interning I developed and led a women's group for women in a recovery home focused on substance use, mental health, and women's issues. I have also worked in a residential settings with adolescents experiencing mental illness. I specialize in substance abuse and co-occurring disorders meaning that there is a substance abuse and mental health issue occurring simultaneously. I believe in helping my clients achieve their goals by building trust and rapport while also using evidence-based practices to learn how to decrease and manage symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s not uncommon to have questions before starting therapy.
Emily C Shelton, LPC, has answered a few of the questions they receive most often from new clients.
Is Emily Shelton accepting new clients?
Yes, Emily Shelton is accepting new clients.
Does Emily Shelton accept insurance?
No, Emily Shelton does not accept insurance.
What types of therapy does Emily Shelton offer?
Emily Shelton offers therapy for groups and individuals.
Does Emily Shelton offer in-person appointments?
No, but people in Illinois can book Emily Shelton for virtual appointments (teletherapy).
Does Emily Shelton offer online therapy?
Yes, Emily Shelton offers online therapy to people in Illinois.
How quickly can I see Emily Shelton?
Emily Shelton typically can speak with new clients within 48 hours. You can see their current general office hours and request an appointment on their profile page.
What languages does Emily Shelton speak?
Emily Shelton conducts therapy sessions in English.
Can I book an appointment with Emily Shelton online?
Yes, you can easily book an appointment with Emily Shelton online using ChoosingTherapy.com’s directory.
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