Mary Shands , LPC

Mary Shands is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with more than 12 years of experience supporting clients from pre-K through late adulthood. She holds licenses in both Missouri and Texas and has developed a broad clinical background by working in school districts as a counselor in special education and general education, within an insurance company, with veterans, and in residential and outpatient treatment settings for substance use and sexual offending.

Across her career Mary has assisted people facing trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting concerns, and emotional abuse, as well as separations connected to adoption. She also brings experience addressing issues that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, codependency, teen and women’s issues, and struggles with self-esteem. Her practice emphasizes practical coping skills alongside deeper exploration of relational and developmental patterns.

Mary uses a range of therapeutic methods to meet clients where they are, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based approaches. These tools allow her to tailor care to diverse needs, whether the work centers on symptom reduction, behavior change, or improved connection with others.

Known for a warm, energetic, and attentive manner, Mary also provides presentations and trainings in various venues. Her combination of clinical experience, school and community work, and a personable style supports clients seeking guidance through life transitions and persistent concerns.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Mary Shands often draws on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which helps clients identify and shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors to reduce anxiety and depression and improve daily functioning. She also uses Client-Centered Therapy, a collaborative, nonjudgmental approach that focuses on the client’s own goals and strengths to foster self-understanding and personal growth. Attachment-Based Therapy is another lens she may bring to work on relationship patterns, closeness, and the impact of early bonds on current partnerships and family dynamics.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Mary works collaboratively with each person to assess needs, goals, and preferences, and adapts methods over time to best support progress and comfort in the work.

Online therapy with Mary is designed to be flexible and accessible. Sessions are available by video call and phone, and she also offers live chat and text-based messaging options. These formats make it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules, maintain continuity during life transitions, and connect with a licensed professional from different locations.