Shannon Pena
Assistant Clinical Director, LCSW
EMDR Trained Practitioner
Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst
Shannon is a Social Worker who has a passion for working with individuals who long to overcome their struggles by building a foundation of self-love, self-compassion, and strength. As a trauma-informed therapist, Shannon acknowledges and is aware of the impact of trauma on a person's suffering and how it shapes a person's ability to cope. Her therapeutic approach aims to help you find understanding about your mind and body's responses to the experiences you have encountered while providing a non-judgmental, inclusive, and safe space to process. Shannon specializes in addressing concerns such as trauma and anxiety.
Therapeutic Specialties
Anxiety Disorders, Autism / Aspergers, Coping Skills, Peer Relationships, Self Esteem, Trauma - PTSD, Women's Issues, Life Transitions, Adolescents Concerns, Domestic Abuse / Violence - Victims support, Sleep or Insomnia
What is important to you, for your client to feel, when working with you?
I believe there is one important aspect to building a therapeutic relationship with my client and that is trust. When there is empathy, genuineness, and communication, trust can be built. Once there is trust, my client can feel more open and willing to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and experiences and that is where the real healing begins.
Who do you believe you are for a client as they manage their problems?
I am a person walking alongside them on their journey to healing. I am there with them because healing can be scary and uncomfortable but they are not alone in this.
What drives your passion for seeing clients?
What motivates me to see clients is to help alleviate the intensity of their emotional pain. The relief and peace I felt through through seeing my own therapist motivates me to provide that safe space for my clients who are experiencing emotional pain.
How do you believe clients "get better"?
Through identifying their strengths, building on those strengths, consistency, and practice of skills learned in therapy, a client can pave their way and feel empowered to continue their journey to healing.
Mental Health Department
Education
Florida International University, Bachelors in Psychology
Walden University, Master of Social Work
Client Age Range
Children (6-12), Teens (13-17), Adult (+18)
Languages Spoken
English, Spanish
Personal Hobbies
When I am not working, I enjoy cuddling with my dogs while watching true crime documentaries. I also love listening to music, visiting historic locations, and visiting metaphysical stores.
"Sometimes the bravest and most important thing you can do is just show up."- Dr. Brene Brown