Gwen Shehorn, LAPC
Young Adult &????Therapist
Helping adults heal from complex trauma, navigate ADHD, and build a life that feels peaceful, authentic, and fulfilling.
About Gwen
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My Approach to Therapy
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Issues Treated
Complex trauma
ADHD & neurodivergence
Trauma-related triggers and patterns
Difficulties with everyday functioning
Identity exploration
Self-confidence and self-trust
Social acceptance and the impact of systemic bias
Mental health concerns related to social and cultural experiences
Deeper life questions and personal meaning
Holistic wellness
Modalities Used
Internal Family Systems (IFS) / “Parts Work”
Brainspotting
Somatic Therapy / Somatic Work
Trauma-focused approaches
Neurodivergence-informed approaches
Philosophical exploration
Non-religious spiritual exploration
Holistic wellness approaches
Education and Training
Bachelors of Sociology
Masters of Social Work
Trained in Brainspotting Phase I
Trained in Internal Family Systems Therapy
Certified Somatic Therapy Foundations Practitioner
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level II
Certified Adult ADHD Specialist
Certified Reiki Practitioner Level II
Registered Yoga Teacher RYT200
What Sessions Are Like
Sessions with me are warm, inviting, creative, and collaborative. I create space for both laughter and tears while helping clients navigate difficult experiences at a pace that feels manageable.
Sessions may include exploring trauma and triggers, understanding the biological or psychological reasons behind certain experiences, working with different “parts” of yourself, or using Brainspotting and somatic techniques to process experiences that may be difficult to address through talking alone.
I also offers a gentle but straightforward communication style, providing explanations and education so clients can better understand themselves and feel empowered in the process.
My Treatment Approach
My work incorporates evidence-based and trauma-informed approaches including:
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Brainspotting
Somatic Therapy
Adult ADHD Treatment
Trauma Therapy
Treatment Philosophy
I approach therapy from a gentle, affirming, and empowering perspective. I believe healing involves understanding the biological and psychological processes behind what you are experiencing, recognizing the patterns and triggers that impact your life, and developing greater confidence and trust in yourself.
I view therapy as a collaborative process and believe clients should feel accepted without judgment, understood, and in control of their own journey. My approach also recognizes the ways trauma, neurodivergence, identity, culture, and systemic experiences can shape mental health.
Why Clients Choose to Work With Me
Clients may choose me because I offer a combination of trauma expertise, neurodivergence-informed care, warmth, directness, and creativity.
I may be especially appealing to adults who:
Have tried traditional approaches and are looking for something different
Feel that their trauma continues to affect their everyday life
Want a therapist who understands neurodivergence
Appreciate direct, honest communication without judgment
Want to better understand why they experience things the way they do
Are interested in exploring identity, meaning, or spirituality without a religious framework
Want therapy that addresses both the mind and body
Need a therapist who can laugh with them as well as sit with them through difficult moments
My Background
My education began with a Bachelors of Sociology which gave me a rich understanding of the social and cultural impact on mental health. I am passionate about sociopolitical issues and how systemic biases can affect all people. I am passionate about feminism, anti-colonialism, dismantling racial and ethnic biases, LGBTQ+ issues, and understanding the profound impact neurodivergence can have on social acceptance from others. With this foundation, I began my studies towards a Masters of Social Work, where I learned about therapeutic approaches on a micro and macro level, deepening my understanding of the impacts of trauma, neurodivergence, various identity types, and demographics. Post-graduation I completed several specific and rigorous trainings to hone my knowledge and skills in trauma and neurodivergence. Additionally, I am passionate about holistic wellness which began with my former career as a Licensed Massage Therapist.
Education & Certificates
Education
Bachelor of Sociology
Master of Social Work
Advanced Training
Brainspotting Phase I
Internal Family Systems Therapy
Certified Somatic Therapy Foundations Practitioner
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level II
Certified Adult ADHD Specialist
Certified Reiki Practitioner Level II
Registered Yoga Teacher RYT-200
Ready to Get Started?
I offer a creative approach to therapy, which is especially helpful to folks that feel like they have tried everything. If you’re reading this, it means you haven’t given up, and that’s all you need to get started on something new. Let’s work together to open new doors and heal old wounds.