Meet Shannah Cariño, LPCC-S
I work with kids, teens, and adults in the Akron area who are finding that anxiety, overthinking, avoidance, or self-criticism are getting in the way of the life they want to be living.
Sometimes that shows up clearly as worry or fear. Other times, it looks more like perfectionism, irritability, procrastination, shutting down, people-pleasing, or feeling like you are never quite doing enough. For kids and teens, school and peer relationships often become the places where these struggles are most visible. For adults, they may show up in work, relationships, parenting, or simply in how much mental energy it takes to get through the day.
With more than 20 years of experience as a school counselor, mental health professional, and administrator, I have spent much of my career helping people navigate the places where emotional health, relationships, school, work, and everyday life overlap. That background gives me a particular understanding of the pressures kids and families face at school, as well as the demands carried by adults who spend much of their lives caring for, leading, or supporting other people.
In therapy, I want to understand both what is getting in the way and what you—or your child—want more of. Our work is not about eliminating every uncomfortable thought or feeling. It is about building the confidence and flexibility to respond differently so that anxiety has less say in the decisions you make.
Life outside of the office is spent raising a couple of kids in West Akron, enjoying the nature Northeast Ohio has to offer, and eating my way through Akron and Greater Cleveland. Frequent visits to Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Summit Metro Parks, and Stan Hywet help me find balance. Most weekends, you can find me at whatever field, court, or pool my kids' activities take me to.
I also love our annual Akron traditions—cheering on runners during the Akron Marathon, spending a day at PorchRokr, and visiting probably more fall farms than any family really needs to.
It would be an honor to learn more about your story and help you get back to more of what matters to you.
“My goal is to help you understand what’s getting in the way—and feel more confident moving toward the life you want to live.”
Will I be able to help you?
I have read many therapist bios myself, only to be left wondering…
Is she qualified to help me?
Will I or my child click with her?
Will she help me explore my issues on a deep, meaningful level, despite my natural tendency to keep things casual by using humor or avoidance?
What will sessions look and feel like?
Am I qualified to help you?
Yes! With 20 years of independent licensure in Ohio, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC-S), I am qualified to provide psychotherapy, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders and supervise other counselors. Additionally, I am a licensed School Counselor with 10 years as an elementary and high school counselor.
Throughout my career, I've worked across various settings, including clinical, trauma, community mental health, and educational institutions. My roles have encompassed managing staff, budgets, and developing comprehensive programming. I've navigated the complexities of grief, trauma, and personal growth, supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds and circumstances.
Whether it's assisting those grappling with profound loss or guiding individuals towards greater fulfillment, I've witnessed the spectrum of human experience. I firmly believe that every journey, no matter how challenging, holds potential for growth and healing.
Will I or my child click with a new therapist?
You are not alone in this question and it is acceptable to ask. I encourage you to explore the site. Deciding to invest the time to help yourself or your child is a big step but I am guessing that if you are here, you are ready for some support. I am happy to schedule a free, 15-minute consultation call to discuss your goals, concerns and to answer any questions you have.
Will the therapist allow me to joke my way through the session or keep it very surface level to avoid hard work?
Like some, you might use humor and charm to deflect and to avoid hard feelings. You might be resistant to therapy or unsure if you want to be vulnerable. We will have to get through that surface layer to discover the tools that work best for you. Will we need do that immediately? No! We will first make sure to build the trust and comfort necessary for this to happen. This can feel uncomfortable but you have done hard things before and we can do this together. While there are things in life or society that are beyond our control, there are ways you or your child can thrive.
What will sessions look and feel like?
Sessions will take place at a Shannah’s office in Copley at a newly made space we call “The Collective”. You will have the option to opt-in to virtual sessions if needed. The best part of being a therapist is that every single client is different with a different story and with different needs. Through talk therapy, interviewing, and collective goal setting, I will learn your story and you will gain insight into where you are today. All of this will guide your treatment process and, together, we will make a road map to the life you desire. I am excited to begin the journey with you.
Financial Information
Each 50 minute session with Shannah is $150.
I accept HSAs cards and all major credit cards. I am happy to provide a Superbill for potential insurance reimbursement. I am contracted with 3 insurance companies to accept Medical Mutual of Ohio (MMO), Optum Behavioral Health (which includes United HealthCare/UHC, United Medical Resources/UMR, Optum), and Aetna.