As a licensed clinical social worker I provide counseling services to individuals, couples and families.  I earned my Masters degree in Social Work from the University of Washington as well as an additional 100-hour certification in children's mental health.  Areas of expertise include:  mood disorders (including anxiety and depression), children & adolescents, ADHD, parenting issues, stress management, grief and loss, divorce, and trauma recovery (including EMDR).  My style is comfortable, sincere and relaxed as I strive to create a calm and peaceful atmosphere.   My approach to therapy is strength-based and client-centered.  I believe that counseling should be a collaborative experience where learning, healing and growth can occur in a safe environment.  I also believe that mental health counseling should be an empowering process that allows people to take back control of their lives.  I have a deep respect for the individual needs and goals of each and every client.

Shannon Ledesma Jones, PhD
Dr. Jones earned her doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of Iowa (1999). She completed her internship at the University of Washington Student Counseling Center in 1998. She has worked as an adjunct professor at Pacific Lutheran University and Antioch University in Seattle. In addition, Dr. Jones worked as a Staff Psychologist at St. Joseph Medical Center and as a Clinical Supervisor at the Puyallup Tribal Health Authority.  My training has been cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic. As a therapist I also draw from a broad range of conceptual approaches, including developmental, systemic, multicultural, social, and biological. My approach to any given patient and his/her problem is tailored for the person while following general principles of social learning and developmental-interpersonal theory. I am particularly interested in patterns of thinking, behaving, and relating that may impede emotional growth, successful relationships, educational or vocational success, intimacy with loved ones, or job satisfaction. In addition, I have specialized training in treating persons who have experienced trauma, those suffering with depression, anxiety, health issues (diabetes, sleep, weight), chronic pain, women’s issues and in providing couples counseling. Biological concerns may also play a role, and in some cases referral to a physician for a medical evaluation or for pharmacological treatment may be advised.