Monica Shelton LPC

The process in determining goals with clients is always a collaboration, however, each person is unique, so no experience is ever exactly the same. In the first session, we will discuss the life events and experiences that brought them to seek out support through counseling. When someone uses a broad term like "I want to be happy." we work on narrowing that down by brainstorming a list of reasons of why they sought out therapy. During this process we begin to see patterns of things that stand out more than others, which helps in determining which goals to work on first. As the goals come in to focus, we need to make them specific so they are measurable. I believe in the power of writing SMART goals (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time bound). By having SMART goals, we can plan and prepare for the smaller steps or goals that will help achieve those larger, end goals. By having a clear plan of action and SMART goals, our work together will be more focused and productive.

The first session will start off with us getting to know each other. You will always have the opportunity to ask me any questions you may have throughout the session. I want to get to know you, about your life and experiences that have brought you to the point in time when we are meeting each other. Everyone's story is unique and matters. You will find during the first session, and all other sessions, you will be met with unconditional positive regard. We will discuss what goals you would like to work on during our time together. By working together, I want to provide you the support so you are empowered to live the life you want for yourself.

Sometimes I feel like my path to becoming a therapist was long, even though I always knew it would be my end destination. Years ago when I was working towards my Bachelors Degree, I went into education. I loved working with children, it was comfortable for me, so it made sense. While I knew I would like teaching, I knew it wasn't my passion. At this time my university did not offer programs in the mental health arena so education was going to be the path I started on while pursuing counseling. After getting my BA, getting married and getting my first teaching job, my husband and I started our Masters program at a local university. We had an appointment to meet with our advisor and when we walked into the meeting, the advisor looked at us and said, "So what program do you want to enroll in?" My husband, thinking he was being helpful, said, "We want to go into school administration." We laugh about this today, but I quickly told the advisor and my sweet husband, absolutely not for me, I wanted to go into counseling. It had been what I always wanted to do. I felt I had the natural ability to be a good and active listener, paired with empathy. I had always been the friend that other's would come to when they needed to vent or ask for advice. I loved connecting with others and hearing their stories. I enjoyed seeing them grow and make the changes they wanted in their lives. I had found purpose in the work I wanted to do. I first became a school counselor, then a certified psychological examiner, and finally a Licensed Professional Counselor. I believe my compassion and understanding of others led me down the path of becoming a therapist, and the education and experiences from my others jobs helped form the therapist I am today.

• Arkansas, Licensed Professional Counselor, P2109014
• Missouri, Licensed Professional Counselor, 2018036466

I received my Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood/Elementary Education, knowing this would help lay a solid foundation for my future work as a counselor. Six months after graduation, I began my Masters Program in School Counseling. As I was working on my Masters I taught 3rd grade for two years. After earning my Masters Degree, I became an elementary school counselor. During my first year in counseling, I knew I wanted to learn more about the struggles my students were facing, so I became a certified School Psychological Examiner. After about five years in counseling I had the opportunity to help develop my districts Early Childhood diagnostic team while being one of the team's psychological and educational examiners. During the 7 years I did this, I also became certified as an Early Childhood Special Education teacher. While I thoroughly enjoyed my time as a School Psychological Examiner, I longed to get back to my original passion in counseling. I returned to school counseling and became a Nationally Board Certified School Counselor. By doing this, my experience was expanded into the ages of young adulthood. Also during this time, I knew it was time to pursue my desire of becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have since retired from the public school system which has allowed me to focus on private counseling. I have met some amazing individuals during my time as an LPC, and look forward to the opportunity to work with you!