ShawnLaRé Brinkley, LMFT brings a unique and varied background to her work as a therapist, having previously worked in fields including politics, the arts, and the high-end jewelry world. In 2010, she felt called to join the helping profession and earned her master’s degree from the University of Phoenix in 2012. Since then, she has worked in a range of therapeutic roles supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families. ShawnLaRé began her clinical journey working with victims of crime, supporting families who had lost loved ones to violent incidents such as drunk driving and homicide. Through this work, she developed a strong foundation in trauma-informed care, which continues to guide her approach today. She later worked with children in foster care through the juvenile probation system in group home settings, partnering closely with adolescents and families during some of their most vulnerable moments. Prior to joining Little Otter, ShawnLaRé worked in a private group practice. ShawnLaRé views therapy as a flexible and creative process and believes healing can happen through many pathways. In addition to evidence-based practices, she incorporates expressive and non-traditional approaches such as art, music, movement, play therapy, and sand tray work. Her training includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, and mindfulness-based practices. She takes a warm, personable, and compassionate approach, meeting clients where they are and supporting self-motivated growth and hope. Outside of work, ShawnLaRé enjoys karaoke, traveling, dancing, and spending time entertaining at home with her husband.