Last edited 01/27/2026

Shanelle Damaso
Accepting New Clients
Online in Florida
Identifies As
WomanBlack/African American, JamaicanHeterosexualChristianityBIPOC
Get To Know Me
What was your path to becoming a therapist? What inspired you to choose this profession?
I’ve always been drawn to understanding people—their inner worlds, stories, and pain. Studying psychology and social work helped me turn that passion into a purpose. My early work with foster youth and refugee families showed me the power of safe, supportive relationships, and how healing begins when people feel seen and heard. Becoming a therapist felt like the most natural way to help others find hope and strength through life’s challenges.
What would be important for someone to know about working with you?
You don’t have to show up with all the answers—or even the right words. I’ll meet you exactly where you are. I’m calm, nonjudgmental, and deeply invested in creating a space where you can feel safe, understood, and supported. Whether you're navigating stress, chronic pain, anxiety, or self-doubt, I bring a grounded, compassionate presence to help you move at your own pace, in your own way.
What is your style/approach to therapy?
My approach blends evidence-based tools like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Pain Reprocessing Therapy with warmth and real-life application. I focus on practical steps, emotional insight, and helping you build confidence and clarity in your day-to-day life. I believe therapy works best when it feels like a genuine, supportive conversation—not a clinical transaction.
Location
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Specialties
Specializes in
DepressionAnxietyWork StressChronic illnessCollege & graduate student issues
General Expertise
Loss/GriefSelf-EsteemSocial AnxietyAcademic challengesADHDAdolescent mental healthAnger managementChronic illnessCodependencyCommunication issuesCultural adjustmentDependence issuesLife transitionsMedical Professionals' Mental HealthStressWomen's issuesHighly Sensitive PersonSchool IssuesBurnout
Treatment Approaches
Strength Based TherapyMindfulness PracticesEclectic TherapyCognitive Processing TherapyPerson-Centered TherapySolution-Focused Brief Therapy
Clientele
Types of Therapy
Individual Therapy
Serves Ages
Young Adults (18-24)Adults (25-65)Seniors (65+)Adolescents (13-17)
Languages
English
Insurance & Fees
Insurances Accepted
AetnaCignaUnitedHealthCare (UHC)All Savers InsuranceAvMedBind InsuranceBlue Cross Blue Shield of MassachusettsCarelon Behavioral HealthCigna EAPEvernorth Health ServicesGolden Rule InsuranceHarvard Pilgrim HealthcareMedicareOptumOscar HealthOxford Health PlansTuftsUnitedHealthcareUnitedHealthcare Student Resources
Cash Pay Rates/Out-of-Pocket
| First Session: | $100 |
| Individual Therapy: | $100 |
Professional Background
LicensureFlorida, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, SW 17394
Training/CertificationsPain Reprocessing Therapy PractitionerQualified Supervisor (CSW)AutPlay Therapy Provider
Education
Florida Gulf Coast University, Master of Social Work, Clinical Social Work, 2018 — I earned my Master of Social Work from Florida Gulf Coast University, where I focused on clinical social work with an emphasis on trauma-informed, culturally responsive care. During my graduate studies, I completed multiple internships supporting children, families, and refugee populations—offering therapy, advocacy, and crisis intervention. The MSW program at FGCU emphasized ethical, strengths-based, and evidence-informed practice, preparing me to work with diverse communities and complex mental health needs. I was also inducted into the Phi Alpha Honor Society for social work professionals.
Florida Gulf Coast University, Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, 2014 — I completed my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Florida Gulf Coast University, where I developed a strong foundation in human behavior, development, and emotional well-being. My coursework included developmental, clinical, and social psychology, and I participated in directed research studies exploring helplessness and aging. I conducted experiments, analyzed data using SPSS, and presented findings under faculty supervision. This early academic experience shaped my passion for understanding the mind and supporting others through life’s challenges.
Work HistoryOver the past 7 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals, children, and families in a variety of settings—including schools, community agencies, and private practice. I’ve provided therapy in both in-person and telehealth formats, supporting clients facing anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, and life transitions. My work has taken me from public schools to refugee programs to behavioral health clinics, where I’ve developed a deep respect for each client’s unique story. These experiences have shaped my therapy style to be practical, compassionate, and culturally responsive.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s not uncommon to have questions before starting therapy.
Shanelle Damaso, LCSW, has answered a few of the questions they receive most often from new clients.
Is Shanelle Damaso accepting new clients?
Yes, Shanelle Damaso is accepting new clients for online therapy in Florida.
Does Shanelle Damaso accept insurance?
Yes, Shanelle Damaso accepts insurance, including Aetna, All Savers Insurance, AvMed, Bind Insurance, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Carelon Behavioral Health, Cigna, Cigna EAP, Evernorth Health Services, Golden Rule Insurance, Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare, Medicare, Optum, Oscar Health, Oxford Health Plans, Tufts, UnitedHealthCare (UHC), UnitedHealthcare and UnitedHealthcare Student Resources.
What types of therapy does Shanelle Damaso offer?
Shanelle Damaso offers therapy for individuals.
Does Shanelle Damaso offer in-person appointments?
No, but people in Florida can book Shanelle Damaso for virtual appointments (teletherapy).
Does Shanelle Damaso offer online therapy?
Yes, Shanelle Damaso offers online therapy via video sessions to people in Florida.
How quickly can I see Shanelle Damaso?
Shanelle Damaso 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 Shanelle Damaso speak?
Shanelle Damaso conducts therapy sessions in English.
Can I book an appointment with Shanelle Damaso online?
Yes, you can easily book an appointment with Shanelle Damaso online using ChoosingTherapy.com’s directory.
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