Shalawn Childs, LCPC

Shalawn Childs is a licensed clinical professional counselor in Maryland with three years of clinical experience. She focuses on practical ways to reduce stress and anxiety and helps people coping with addictions and depression. She also supports those facing trauma and abuse and addresses concerns related to LGBT issues.

Shalawn works from the view that each person knows their own story best. She looks for strengths clients can use to meet hard moments and build on small successes. Sessions aim to be straightforward and goal-oriented, with an emphasis on what feels doable for each person.

Her background includes work with people dealing with chronic pain, illness, and disability, and with drug and alcohol addiction. She also brings experience addressing family problems, first responder issues, and multicultural concerns. She is able to communicate in English and American Sign Language.

Shalawn emphasizes collaboration during the first meetings to set priorities and practical steps. She offers a supportive, steady presence while helping people try new coping strategies. The focus is on gradual progress and on building tools that fit daily life.

To begin, she asks people to share where they want to start and what small changes would help most. The goal is to create plans that feel manageable and to adapt them as needs change.

Evidence-based approaches and online care

Shalawn uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques that focus on clear skills and practical change. One approach emphasizes identifying current stressors and building concrete coping skills to reduce anxiety and manage day-to-day pressure. Another approach concentrates on relapse prevention and practical steps for people coping with drug or alcohol addiction, helping them recognize triggers and plan healthier responses.

Choosing the right approach is a team effort. The therapist will work with each person to decide which techniques fit their needs, goals, and comfort level. This collaborative process includes checking in and adjusting strategies as progress is made.

If you are considering online therapy, confirm the session formats available before booking so they match your needs. Many people find online sessions helpful for fitting appointments into busy schedules, shortening commute time, and keeping momentum between meetings. Discuss with the therapist how to structure sessions to work around work, caregiving, or other responsibilities and to make small, steady steps toward recovery and reduced stress.