Shannon Shahinian

Child & Family Therapist

Shannon Shahinian, MSW, LCSW, NMT Phase IAssociate Clinician

Education and Training

As an experienced play therapist and general youth and family therapist, Shannon has advanced education in child development, childhood trauma, play and arts-based therapy techniques, and person-centered approaches. Having obtained her level 1 certification in the The Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT), Shannon works to support client’s sensory and regulation needs. She is trained in Attachment-Based interventions, Client-Centered Therapy, Child Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy (CBPT), positive-parenting, and Behavioral/Cognitive-Behavioral interventions.

Shannon completed her education at Loyola University Chicago, earning a Master’s in Social Work (Child & Family Specialization) and Bachelor of Arts in Dance and Social Work. Shannon has completed training in youth-focused non-profit and school settings. As a pediatric social worker, she has worked in both private practice and an intensive interdisciplinary therapy clinic settings. With significant training and experience providing individual and group therapy for children and caregivers, Shannon collaborates with family members, other providers, and school systems to ensure quality care for all of her clients.

Current Clinical Interests

Shannon’s clinical work is focused on providing individual and family-based care to children and young adults ages 2-25. She provides therapy in-person at our South Barrington location (In the North-West Chicago Suburbs, near Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, and Inverness) and virtually.

Focused on catering treatment approaches to individual clients and families, Shannon values treating the whole person and the whole family. Therefore, she utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach in her work. She emphasizes trust in the therapeutic relationship and follows the client’s lead. Play is the natural mode of communication for children. As an experienced play therapist, Shannon incorporates Child Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) and Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy (CBPT) in her work with children. Through positive parenting and attachment-based approaches, Shannon collaborates with parents and caregivers, therefore, ensuring the most effective level of care. Additionally, With an open mind and love for creativity, Shannon’s goal is to support individuals and families to spark positive changes in their lives.

As a Pediatric Social Worker, Shannon works with a range of clinical concerns, including (but not limited to):

  • Trauma
  • Anxiety
  • Developmental Differences
  • Mood Disorders/Depression
  • Self-regulation challenges/Disruptive Behaviors
  • Family Dynamics
  • Strained Relationships
  • Self-Esteem
  • Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder in Early Childhood
  • Parenting Challenges
  • College Transitions

On a personal note

Shannon has been a dancer since childhood and continues to teach a variety of dance classes, outside of her clinical work. A believer in balance and self-care, she relaxes by spending time with her cats, baking new recipes, and enjoying the company of her friends and family.