My Story

I began my journey into mental health in elementary school earning the nickname "Shrink Shawna." Becoming a psychologist was always my journey, though the path to becoming the one I am today has come with many peaks, valleys, successes and failures.
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I earned a BA in psychology from Colorado State University in 1999. After a brief stint in day care, I landed a job as a coordinator within the Developmental Disability system in Aurora, CO. After a few years in this field, I began my graduate school adventure in 2003 at the University of Denver, College of Education. I earned a MA in counseling psychology in 2005, and obtained my Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) license in 2009. Then in 2010 I earned my doctorate in clinical psychology through the Graduate School of Professional Psychology at the University of Denver; becoming a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in 2011.
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My specialty focus in my doctorate was adult psychopathology. I spent the first 6 years as a clinical psychologist focused on intensive services within community mental health. In 2016 my path altered and from this point I worked as a Behavioral Health Consultant within primary care clinics in the healthcare system up until July 2024.
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My move into full-time private practice is to honor myself, my passions, and those I am meant to connect with.
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I thank you for taking the time to get to know me and discover whether you wish to connect with me to understand your path.
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If interested in getting to know me more, check out my YouTube channel and weekly postings of The Discomfort Zone!

OYN Counseling YouTube
