CLINICAL INTERN
From an early age, I have been fascinated by family dynamics, intergenerational patterns of resilience and trauma, cultural norms, and how these forces interact and shape us. My personal interest in psychology, relationships and families drew me to the mental health field after more than a decade working in the nonprofit and public sectors. Bolstered by the transformational experience of being supported by skilled therapists through my own major life changes, I developed a passion for providing that same care and compassion to others.
In addition to addressing specific concerns like anxiety and depression, I consider how mental health impacts all aspects of a person’s life, from interpersonal relationships to effects felt at work, school and social settings. My areas of interest include supporting individuals through major life transitions, such as changes in occupation, relationships, and health status. I also work with grief and loss, parenting and family dynamics, including the perinatal period, the transition to parenthood, and parent-child relationships. I enjoy helping people navigate relationship challenges, explore their sense of identity, and find their way through life's many changes.
My approach is person-centered, rooted in humility, and driven by respectful curiosity. As a systemically trained provider, I draw on several models, including those based in attachment theory (Emotionally Focused Therapy and Emotionally Focused Family Therapy), as well as Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. While the specific models used depend on the unique needs of each client, my goal is consistently to help clients clarify personal objectives, improve connectedness and communication in close relationships, and foster the conditions necessary for growth and healing.
I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming and neurodiversity affirming practitioner. All relationship constellations, family structures, and individuals are warmly invited to bring their authentic selves to therapy. I work with individuals, relational structures/couples, and families.
I received my Bachelor of Arts in Public Affairs from Washington State University (Vancouver), hold a Master of Public Policy from Mills College at Northeastern, and am currently working towards a Master of Arts in Couple and Family Therapy from Antioch University (Seattle).
I have been conducting counseling services since 2026, and previously served as a volunteer crisis counselor with a national helpline. Before training in the mental health field, I worked for over a decade in small nonprofits focused on improving the lives of youth, families and vulnerable community members. I have also worked in local government and as a graduate student researcher in public policy. I have a breadth of experience collaborating with people from all walks of life, across generations and cultures. My prior work informs my stance in the therapy space as a collaborator who highly values lived experience, differing perspectives, and creative problem-solving.
All people deserve access to high quality, culturally-responsive, individualized mental health care located in their community. I believe the therapeutic process can be a powerful mechanism for change that can align us more closely with our values, purpose and/or goals in life.
Outside of the therapy room, I am an avid reader, devoted podcast listener, and film enthusiast. When we’re not reading or watching a show together, my family and I enjoy exploring parks, trails and waterways around Puget Sound.
Shalyn is a master’s level clinical mental health counseling intern in the state of Washington supervised by Sharayah Lewis, LMHC (LF60632926; NPI number: 1528479938).
