Shelly Harvey, MA, MBA, LPC

I’m glad you’re here!

Finding the right therapist is like discovering the perfect bedtime story—it brings comfort, understanding, and helps your family sleep a little easier at night. It's crucial to have someone who not only understands your challenges but can also guide you through them with empathy and expertise. With the right therapist, you gain a trusted ally in your parenting journey, offering reassurance, perspective, and a shoulder to lean on when times get tough.

Why choose to work with me?

As a therapist with expertise in working with children, adolescents, parents, couples, and families, I understand the importance of establishing a strong connection with my clients. You deserve to feel comfortable and supported during your therapeutic journey, which is why I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions.

What sets me apart is my commitment to building genuine relationships with my clients. I want to know more than just your struggles—I want to understand what makes you unique. What brings you joy? What are your passions, strengths, and aspirations? By delving into these aspects of your life, we can uncover the underlying factors contributing to your current circumstances and work towards meaningful growth and change.

Therapy is a collaborative process, and my goal is to empower you to take control of your life and create the future you envision. Whether you're facing challenges as an individual or within your family, I am here to provide the support and guidance you need to navigate through them successfully.

Take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow and schedule a consultation today. I look forward to embarking on this journey of healing and growth with you.

“You are stronger than you think, wiser than you know, and capable of more than you imagine.”

— Roy T. Bennett

 My Story

After two decades in the corporate world, leading transformative change and coaching executives, I felt a calling to a more personal path. This journey led me to counseling, where I now bring a wealth of experience to my work with children, teens, parents, and couples.

Having navigated the complexities of large-scale change initiatives and mergers, I understand firsthand the stress and uncertainty that can accompany life's transitions. My background in executive coaching has honed my ability to empower individuals to navigate challenges and unlock their full potential.

During my time as a school counselor, I honed my skills in supporting children through various challenges, from academic struggles to social pressures. This experience, combined with my background in executive coaching, equips me with a unique perspective on personal growth and resilience.

Having been married for over two decades and raising a teenager of my own, I intimately understand the complexities of family dynamics—the joys, the struggles, and the importance of nurturing relationships. These personal experiences, coupled with my professional background, inform my approach and deepen my connection with clients.

Outside of work, I find joy in travel, lose myself in the pages of a good book, challenge my mind with puzzles, rejuvenate my spirit with hikes, and find endless love and laughter with my dogs. These experiences enrich my work, providing me with empathy, understanding, and a grounded perspective.

My specialties

  • Life can be overwhelming at times, especially for kids, teens, and parents who are juggling multiple responsibilities. When anxiety and stress start to feel like too much to handle, it's important to know that you don't have to navigate these feelings alone. As your partner in healing, I provide a safe and supportive space where we can explore what's causing those anxious feelings and develop practical strategies to manage them effectively.

    Understanding how your brain works can be a helpful starting point in managing anxiety. When faced with stressors, our brains can sometimes get stuck in "fight or flight" mode, where our bodies prepare to respond to a perceived threat. This can lead to feelings of panic, racing thoughts, and physical symptoms like a racing heart or shallow breathing. Together, we'll explore how these physiological responses impact your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and develop personalized techniques to help regulate your nervous system and restore a sense of calm.

    For example, imagine a teenager who feels overwhelmed by academic pressures and social expectations. They may experience frequent panic attacks before exams or avoid social situations altogether to avoid feeling judged or criticized. By learning how to recognize and manage their body's stress response, they can develop coping strategies such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, or positive self-talk to navigate challenging situations with greater ease and confidence.

    Together, we'll delve into your unique experiences and challenges, understanding that each person's journey is different. By tapping into your innate strengths and resilience, we'll work collaboratively to help you feel more confident and in control of your life. Whether it's through mindfulness techniques, cognitive-behavioral strategies, or simply having someone to listen, I'm here to support you every step of the way.

  • Living with ADHD can present its own set of challenges, but it also brings with it a wealth of strengths and talents. Perhaps you've noticed that your child, like many others, is a bundle of energy and creativity, known for their lively imagination and quick wit. While their classmates may be able to sit still and focus for long periods, your child may struggle to stay on task, often getting distracted or impulsively acting on their thoughts.

    Do you dread the call from the school, fearing it might be yet another report of your child's disruptive behavior in class or forgotten homework assignment? Maybe you've noticed that despite their best efforts, your child seems to have trouble following instructions or completing tasks, leading to frustration and anxiety for both of you. While these challenges can feel overwhelming at times, it's important to remember that you're not alone.

    And perhaps, as a parent, you can relate to your own experiences with ADHD. Maybe you find yourself jumping from one project to the next without finishing what you started, despite your best intentions. While others may see your creativity and enthusiasm as strengths, you may sometimes feel overwhelmed by the challenges that come with managing ADHD in everyday life.

    As your partner in understanding and managing ADHD, I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space where we can explore your child's and your own unique experiences and challenges. Together, we'll identify strategies and coping mechanisms that work best for both of you, drawing on your strengths and talents to help you thrive.

    Whether it's developing organizational skills, improving time management, or enhancing communication techniques, I'm here to provide guidance and support every step of the way. Let's work together to celebrate your family's uniqueness and find creative ways to navigate your world with confidence and resilience.

  • Living as a gifted or twice exceptional (2e) individual is like finding your way through a maze, navigating both extraordinary abilities and the unique hurdles that come with it. You've probably seen your child's amazing abilities, their endless questions, and their knack for thinking outside the box. But with their brilliance also come obstacles that can make everyday life feel like a puzzle with missing pieces.

    Ever find yourself holding your breath before answering the phone, half-expecting another call from school about your child's experiences? Or perhaps you've noticed that despite their potential, they struggle to find their place within the structure of traditional education, facing challenges that others may not fully understand.

    And as a parent, you might see a bit of yourself in your child's journey. Maybe you've always felt like you're on a rollercoaster journey, with your thoughts going in a million different directions, while navigating your own path alongside your child.

    As someone who's been there, I understand how overwhelming it can all feel. That's why I'm here to offer a place you can feel at ease—a space where we can figure things out together. From helping your child navigate school, to finding ways to embrace their talents and quirks while addressing the unique hurdles they face, we'll take it step by step, together.

    Whether it's finding the right support in school, building confidence, or simply finding joy in everyday moments despite the challenges, I'm here to help. Let's navigate this maze together, celebrating the victories and finding solutions to the obstacles that come our way.

  • Life is full of transitions and changes, from moving to a new city to starting a new job or experiencing a major life event. While these transitions can bring excitement and opportunities for growth, they can also be accompanied by feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, and overwhelm. Whether you're navigating a major life transition or facing unexpected changes, it's important to know that you don't have to go through it alone.

    Perhaps you're a parent who's recently moved to a new city, leaving behind familiar routines and support systems. Maybe you're starting a new job or embarking on a career change, feeling unsure about what the future holds. Or perhaps you're experiencing a significant life event such as a divorce, loss of a loved one, or health diagnosis, leaving you feeling shaken and vulnerable.

    Navigating these transitions can feel like embarking on a journey into the unknown, but it's also an opportunity for growth, discovery, and transformation. As your partner in navigating life's transitions, I offer a compassionate and supportive space where we can explore your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. Together, we'll unpack the emotions and challenges that come with change, while also identifying opportunities for growth and resilience.

    Through gentle exploration and reflection, we'll develop practical strategies and coping mechanisms to help you navigate the challenges of transition with grace and resilience. Whether it's creating a roadmap for navigating change, building a support network, or cultivating self-care practices, I'm here to provide guidance and support every step of the way. Let's embrace the possibilities that come with change and discover new paths forward, grounded in your values, strengths, and aspirations.

  • School can be quite the journey for kids! Grades, friendships, all the ins and outs—it's a lot to handle. But hey, as a parent, you're not alone in wanting to help your child through it all.

    In my practice, I'm all about giving kids the tools they need to tackle school with confidence. Think of me as your child's partner, helping them develop self-assurance and resilience for whatever comes their way. We'll dive into areas like speaking up for themselves, handling those big feelings, understanding other’s perspectives, and not just getting by, but thriving in both their studies and their social life.

    During our sessions, it's all about creating a comfy space where kids can chat freely about what's on their mind. Together, we'll figure out how to deal with stress, calm those nerves, and bounce back stronger when things get rough. By boosting their self-belief and helping them understand their emotions, kids learn to stand tall and speak up in school, making their voices heard.

    And parents, I'm here for you too! I'll share some practical tips and techniques for supporting your child beyond our sessions. From working with teachers to addressing any challenges that arise, we'll partner to make your child's school experience is as positive as possible.

  • Adolescence can feel like a whirlwind of expectations and uncertainties, where fitting in and meeting societal norms can sometimes overshadow the journey of self-discovery and personal growth. But fear not, because I'm here to be your ally in navigating these social pressures.

    In my practice, I provide a safe and accepting space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment. Together, we'll dive deep into the complexities of external pressures and internal conflicts that may be impacting your sense of self-worth and identity.

    During adolescence, you're not just trying to fit in—you're also discovering who you are and what you stand for. It's a time of exploring your own unique identity, separate from the expectations of others. Together, we'll honor this journey of self-discovery and help you cultivate a sense of self that feels authentic and true to who you are.

    Through compassionate listening and validation, we'll uncover the roots of your social pressures and develop strategies to address them effectively. Whether it's dealing with peer pressure, navigating social hierarchies, or managing the expectations of family and society, we'll work collaboratively to find solutions that align with your evolving identity and values.

    I believe in empowering you with the tools and skills you need to navigate social situations confidently and authentically. Together, we'll cultivate assertive communication skills and healthy coping strategies that allow you to assert your boundaries and stay true to yourself in any setting.

    By embracing your unique strengths and values, we'll build resilience and self-assurance that goes beyond just surviving social pressures—it's about thriving and embracing your true self in all aspects of your life. So let's embark on this journey of self-discovery and growth together, empowering you to navigate the complexities of adolescence with confidence and authenticity.

  • Healing from trauma is a deeply personal journey—one that requires courage, compassion, and unwavering support. As your partner in healing, I'm here to walk alongside you on this path, offering a safe and nurturing space where you can explore your experiences and emotions at your own pace.

    In my practice, I utilize a holistic approach to trauma healing, combining empathetic listening, reflective dialogue, and techniques rooted in research to support your journey. Whether it's through processing trauma memories, building coping skills, or fostering a sense of safety and empowerment, we'll work collaboratively to honor your strength and resilience.

    One of the techniques I specialize in is Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), an innovative therapy that combines elements of traditional psychotherapy with eye movements to help reprocess traumatic memories more quickly and effectively. This approach can often lead to rapid relief from symptoms and a greater sense of empowerment over your experiences.

    In addition to ART, we may also incorporate mindfulness practices, creative expression, and other trauma-focused therapies tailored to your unique needs and preferences. Whatever path we take, my goal is to support you every step of the way as you reclaim your sense of agency and embrace a future filled with hope and possibility.

    Together, we'll navigate the complexities of trauma with compassion and understanding, honoring your resilience and guiding you towards healing and growth. So take the first step towards healing today—I'm here to support you on your journey.

Professional Background

  • Licensed Professional Counselor

    License number #2848, Minnesota

  • Master of Arts in Counseling and Psychotherapy

    Adler Graduate School

  • Master of Business Administration in Strategy and Marketing

    University of Chicago Booth School of Business

  • Trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy

    The Rosenzweig Center for Rapid Recovery

  • Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP)

  • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

  • Level 2 trained in the Gottman Method for Couples

Let's embark on this journey together.