Shelbey Watson, LMSW

Hello and welcome! I am so glad that you found me in your search for a therapist.

My therapeutic work has been geared towards those who have experienced trauma, early relational trauma, and disruption to building a secure attachment with a caregiver. While this background lends itself to working with primarily children and families, I find that people in all stages of life are in the healing process for their early relational harm. Many people have questions about how they came to be who they are, with their struggles and barriers in relationship with others. The impacts of early relational harm and trauma can cause additional issues later in life, such as anxiety, depression, lingering shame, a deep sense of unease, a disconnect from others or self, and a general uncertainty over one’s life; all of which I am happy to address in my work with clients. It is my honor and great pleasure to work alongside clients as they navigate these important questions and difficulties. My greatest clinical strength is the ability to meet folks where they are and to understand different approaches to living a rewarding, enjoyable life, in all the manifestations that this may take.

I graduated with my Master of Social Work degree in 2021 from Western Michigan University. While I am an Indiana native, I love Michigan and claim it as my home state. I completed my clinical internship at a college counseling center, helping young adults as they adapt and transition to college life. Before I received my master’s degree, my work background entailed direct care with elderly, direct care with youth involved in the foster care system, and I taught guitar to beginner-level students. I am a life-long learner, and I continue to work with WMU as a part-time instructor for a class about society’s response to and the impact of child maltreatment. I incorporate all these skills, knowledge, and experiences into my therapy practice, as I believe clients deserve custom treatment that meets their individual needs.