Meet Courtney

Greetings! Allow me to introduce myself--my family and friends call me Courtney, my children’s father calls me Bae, a select few call me Bestie, and I often answer to Mommy, Mama, or Maaaah! If you’re reading this, Courtney Shields, Licensed Professional Counselor and Marriage and Family Therapist is probably the name and title most relevant to you (insert a big smile, hug, or fist bump here).

I sincerely wish that I could convey how special this profession is to me. What I can tell you is that every individual, couple, and family who has entrusted me to help them do life, has also equipped me with a spirit of humility and empathy far exceeding what I ever knew I needed. As selfish as it may sound, it is your life stories that influence me to be more intentional in becoming the best version of myself. It is one of my greatest joys to help you do the same.

I’m a former athlete and for many years of my life, I was a part of a team. These experiences taught me a great deal about relationships. I believe wholeheartedly in relationships and know life doesn’t happen without them. We are less capable of doing life well when we do it alone. While I had to hang up my basketball shoes, I’ve learned that being a counselor means I have the privilege to be your teammate in the game of life. The ball is in your court and my goal is to help you become the MVP.

My Approach

My love for sports is where my heart for relationship was birthed. Over the years of playing with different teams, there was often the expectation that players should ignore vital areas of their lives to focus on the game and make performance the priority. At times, I placed that expectation on others. I didn’t know better then, but I do now. I now understand we can both experience life’s toughest battles and be present in other spaces. So how do we get there?

I believe it starts with the client-counselor connection. While the client’s goals guide the therapeutic journey, I always note, therapy is not so much about doing away with uncomfortable feelings or thoughts, but rather learning that you can do life alongside those conflicting feelings. Yes, I will validate, AND I will challenge you. I use a combination of therapeutic theories and interventions including, but not limited to; Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Structural Family Therapy, and Gottman Method. I have the greatest experience with adults, couples, and families. You ready?

In the words of the great lyricist, Lizzo…” In case nobody told you today, you’re special!”