Shelby Allen

LGSW

Shelby Allen, an associate therapist at The Sterling Group DC, laughing in a denim jacket.

Associate Therapist
(she/her/hers)

Young adulthood can be a rollercoaster! Our 20s and 30s are filled with excitement, change, and unexpected twists and turns. But it’s also easy to get stuck in debilitating cycles of comparison, self-doubt, and anxiety. The pressure to be perfect and to have it all figured out can be all consuming. Trust me, I’ve been there and I get it! I strive to work collaboratively with my clients to create realistic and achievable goals, to change unhelpful patterns, and to overcome mental roadblocks that may be getting in your way.

I believe that the heart of effective therapy lies in a genuine partnership between therapist and client.  As a former teacher, I aim to create a nurturing environment where clients are encouraged to learn, introspect, and show up as their authentic selves. I want my clients to feel supported as they reflect on their experiences, and confident that they have the tools to ground themselves in the present so that they may lead more intentional, balanced, lives in the future. 

I am committed to walking alongside my clients as they navigate various life challenges, including grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, challenging relationship dynamics, and life transitions. I strongly believe that the therapeutic relationship is a powerful tool for fostering growth and value active participation and feedback during our sessions.

I am here to provide a space where you can feel empowered to be perfectly imperfect and to help you  take steps toward living the balanced, fulfilling life you deserve. My approach is mindful, trauma-informed, and rooted in the understanding that your experience is unique. No goal is too big or too small to explore in therapy. Come just as you are — I look forward to working with you!

  Interested in working with Shelby? Reach out today to schedule a free consultation!