Hello there! My name is Shelby DeCatur and I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself. I have obtained my Master’s of Social Work through Saginaw Valley State University. I am a Tri-City area native. I have a cat, affectionately named Luna “Lu” S’Mores or a.k.a Toasted Marshmallow, and a bearded dragon named Rocko. In my spare time, I enjoy most things “geek” related - video games, comics, and D&D- but I also enjoy being creative in whatever way that may show up!

I work with the following populations:

• Children (Ages 5 to 12)

• Adolescents and Young adults (Ages 13 to 25 years)

• Adults

• Grief and Loss

• LGBTQ+

• Anxiety

• Depression

• ADHD

• Self-Esteem

• Life adjustments

First, I recognize that each person’s needs are unique - so I am mindful to adjust my approach to ensure that any client or family feels welcomed, safe, and able to express themselves as needed. My approach to therapy is that we all have experiences that make up our individual, unique stories. Sometimes we can laugh at the things that have happened, other times we are frustrated, maybe cry, or perhaps all the above.

Healing is a journey; like any adventure, there are fun moments and bumps in the road. My aim in therapy is to remind clients of their strength and their resilience, but also to empower them. Much of our life experiences that were traumatic or difficult to navigate affect how we interpret or interact in situations. This can lead to difficulties with taking care of ourselves or how we relate to others.

I am currently working towards being credentialed in Play Therapy (RPT) and certification in Trauma Play. Much of my background and training are related to play therapy, supporting children and families, and aiding those I work with the chance to process their experiences in a way that allows for a deeper level of communication that words do not always reach.