Shannon Baynai LMSW-C

In the first session, we'll cover practice policies and consents and we will complete a biopsychosocial assessment, which is a collection of background information. The structured format takes the pressure off a client coming into therapy for the first time and who may be unsure how to begin or where to start. Through these objectives, the client is able to get a feel for my personality and how I operate in order to determine whether or not we will be a good fit to move forward.

I allow my clients to tell me what they need, but there are times, however, when it can be difficult for a client to express what it is that they want. In these instances, I like to explore what their ideal-self looks like and identify behavioral shifts we can make to grow into this version of ourselves. From there, we can also identify any underlying cognitive processes that are making these behavioral changes difficult and work toward defusing from these unhelpful thoughts.

My approach to therapy is to create a safe, validating space for all individuals. The feedback from clients I hear time and time again is that they want a therapist who is going to listen and not judge them. With me, you'll have that. I subscribe to a person-centered framework, which means you can count on empathy, understanding, and genuine interactions in our sessions. I act as a facilitator to your self-discovery.

• Michigan, Licensed Master’s Social Worker - Clinical, 6801109546