About Shania
Shania Vasquez, Master’s level therapist
“I think every artist should follow their vision; their hearts is what they need to reveal, not something that society is looking out for.”
- serj tankian
About:
Outside of the therapy room, Shania is a creative at heart. She enjoys photography, creating art, baking, and experimenting with interior design. She values movement and strength and can often be found powerlifting at the gym. She unwinds by playing video games (including shooters, survival, adventure, open-world, and squad-based games), listening to music ranging from death metal to 1940s oldies-but-goodies, and learning new things purely for the joy of it. She shares her space with three fur babies and proudly snuggles with them in oversized sweatpants and hoodies.
Theoretical Framework and Modalities:
Shania uses a trauma-informed, strengths-based, and client-centered approach, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS) Parts Work, Mindfulness, Psychoeducation, Expressive Arts Therapy, Play Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Feminist Therapy frameworks. Her work is collaborative and tailored to each client’s unique needs and goals.
Shania’s Typical Clientele:
Shania primarily works with teens, young adults, and college students navigating concerns such as crisis, life transitions, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, and stress. She also works with individuals exploring and affirming their identities within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum.
Education and Training:
In 2024, Shania completed her Master’s degree in Clinical-Counseling Psychology and a graduate certificate in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies at Illinois State University. She is currently working towards her LPC licensure and Trauma-Informed Expressive Arts Therapy (EXAT) Certification. In 2025 Shania has also received training in Intrinsic Trauma Response, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and Practicing with Play, Creative Interventions Across the Lifespan.
Shania might be a good fit if:
You want a safe space to explore all your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
You love music, art, video games, board games, and/or writing.
You use humor to navigate life’s challenges.
You want to explore and embrace your authentic identity.
You’re ready to take small, practical steps toward your goals in a collaborative way.