Shelly Hart, MA, LPC

 

Specialties

  • Life Transitions, Stress & Adjustment

  • Interpersonal Challenges

  • EMDR, Post Traumatic Growth, & Resilience

  • Depression & Anxiety

  • Grief & Loss

  • Parenting 

  • Play therapy techniques

Populations served

  • Children (ages 5+)

  • Adolescents

  • Adults

  • Couples

  • Families

Additional Services

  • Premarital Counseling

  • Couples & Marriage Counseling

  • Family Counseling

I know that starting therapy—or even considering it—can feel overwhelming. You may be carrying a lot, unsure where to begin, or wondering if therapy will really help. My hope is to offer a space where you feel safe, supported, and truly heard from the very first conversation. I believe healing happens best in relationships built on trust, compassion, and collaboration, and I work hard to create that kind of environment for every client who walks through my door.

I work with children (ages 5+), adolescents, adults, couples, and families, supporting people through life transitions, stress and adjustment challenges, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and parenting concerns. I understand that no two people—or families—are the same, so I take an individualized approach to therapy that honors your unique experiences, strengths, and goals.

A significant part of my work is grounded in trauma‑informed care. Many people come to therapy carrying experiences that have shaped how they see themselves, others, and the world around them. Trauma doesn’t always come from one big event—it can also develop through ongoing stress, loss, or difficult relationships. Being trauma‑informed means I focus first on emotional safety, choice, and empowerment. We move at a pace that feels manageable, and I work to help you feel more grounded, in control, and connected as we explore what healing looks like for you.

I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), an evidence‑based approach that can be especially helpful for people who feel “stuck” in distressing memories, emotions, or patterns. EMDR helps the brain process experiences that may not have fully healed, allowing those memories to feel less overwhelming over time. Many clients appreciate that EMDR does not require retelling every detail of a painful experience, and that it can support relief from symptoms such as anxiety, emotional reactivity, or negative beliefs about oneself.

When working with children and adolescents, I often incorporate play therapy techniques and creative, developmentally appropriate interventions. Children don’t always have the words to explain what they’re feeling, but play provides a natural and powerful way for them to express emotions, build coping skills, and make sense of their experiences. I also work closely with parents and caregivers, offering guidance and support so growth can continue outside of sessions and within the family system.

I have experience working with individuals impacted by trauma, foster care involvement, abuse, women’s issues, and complex family dynamics, and I deeply value helping clients reconnect with their strengths and resilience. Therapy with me is not about “fixing” you—because you are not broken. Instead, it’s about understanding your story, building insight, and developing tools that help you feel more confident, balanced, and emotionally supported in your daily life.

I see therapy as a collaborative process. We work together to identify goals, explore patterns, and create meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you. Whether you’re navigating a current life stressor, healing from past experiences, or hoping to strengthen relationships, I aim to walk alongside you with empathy, curiosity, and encouragement.

It would be an honor to support you as you work toward healing, growth, and a more fulfilling, connected version of your life.

Education

  • Master of Art in Counseling, Lincoln Christian University, 2020

  • Bachelor of Art in Human Services, Lincoln Christian University, 2017

  • Associate of Arts, Lincoln Christian University, 2015

Licensing, Training & Certifications

  • Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Illinois

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, our 5 adult daughters, my grandchildren and my two cats. I love playing games, household projects, spending time with friends, traveling, and the great outdoors. For me, there is nothing like being out in the sunshine! 

"Trauma creates change you don't choose. Healing is about creating change you do choose."

— Michelle Rosenthal