Shani Tyson, Graduate Counseling Intern

1. What led you to become a counselor?

Shani: After I had a series of sport-related injuries that required surgery, I noticed that my mental health was heavily impacted. I anticipated feeling some frustration, but I was not prepared for the identity loss, anger, bitterness, and depression that came afterwards. I am thankful that I had a strong support system to help me through that time, and I couldn’t help but wonder how many people experience these same struggles but do not have a support system. I grew a curiosity for psychology which led me to pursue my M.S. in Positive Psychology. It was through my graduate studies that I discovered the counseling career path, and I have been pursuing it ever since.

 

2. How would you describe your counseling style?

Shani: I describe my counseling style as compassionate, collaborative, and forward focused. My aim is to have our time together be meaningful and constructive to your therapy goals. I want you to feel heard, worthy, and empowered to live your life to the fullest.

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3. What issues do you specialize in?

Shani: I am interested in being a generalist! I want my clients to feel that they can approach me with any topic and that we can work together to address the concern. I would also like to explore career counseling and mental health counseling. 

 

4. What theoretical approaches influence your work?

Shani: My work will be grounded primarily in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). By helping clients understand how their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected, while also teaching them how to handle intense emotions and challenging situations, they can benefit from our sessions. I would also love to explore Narrative Therapy. 

 

5. What is the first session with you like? 

Shani: I want the first session to feel safe and comfortable as we get to know each other. I also want to know your goals for therapy. In counseling, we may discuss some difficult topics, and it is important that we trust each other. I want you to leave the first session with the hope that you will benefit from the therapeutic process. 

 

6. What do you do outside of counseling to recharge? 

Shani: Outside of counseling, I recharge by working out at the gym, hanging out with friends, and calling my family since we are currently far away from each other. I enjoy watching movies, singing, spending time outside, and eating ice cream! 

 

7. How do you create safety in the therapy room? 

Shani: I know that a whirlwind of emotions can come when you're entering counseling for the first time. There may be some fear, excitement, embarrassment, eagerness, or a mixture of everything and the kitchen sink. When you come into my office, I want you to know that you will be heard in a judgement-free zone. 

 

8. For clients who desire it, how do you integrate faith into sessions? 

Shani: For those who want to, I would integrate prayer into the sessions because when two are gathered in His name, Jesus is with us (Matthew 18:20). When we invite Jesus into our sessions together, we are allowing the Wonderful Counselor to have say over our time (Isaiah 9:6). By also including scripture and Biblical principles into the sessions, it will allow us to rely on the Holy Spirit’s guidance.  

 

9. How do you help clients who feel stuck or isolated? 

Shani: When a client feels stuck or isolated, I recognize how that can be discouraging, confusing, and even painful. We’ll work to investigate the cause of this feeling and what can be done about it. As we figure out the cause, my hope is that we can alleviate some of that discomfort one session at a time. 

 

10. What do you believe creates real change in therapy?

Shani: I believe real change comes from persistent hope, unshaken faith, consistency, and adaptability. Therapy can be described as a marathon, and the finish line is a prepared, equipped person that can process life stressors in a better way. My hope is that clients believe that they can change for the better, that they do not give up on themselves, and that they are willing to go through the process. 

 

11. Who all do you work with? 

Shani: I work with individuals of all ages! I have a passion for working with athletes and young adults. Whoever comes into my office, I will give you my best and my hope is that we can partner on your journey.