Shelby Henderson, LIMHP
I am a LIMHP who graduated from the University of Nebraska-Kearney with my Master’s of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have previously worked at Williamsburg Behavioral Health Center, Blue Valley Behavioral Health, Voices of Hope, and Richard Young.
I believe that everyone has a personally unique journey that has led them to where they are today. As a counselor, I feel it is important to have a strong connection with my clients in order to understand where they have been, where they are now, and where they want to go. It takes strength and courage to deal with aspects in our own lives that are not bringing us fulfillment. This is why I believe that counseling is one of the biggest steps a person can take in order to reach a happier and more fulfilling life. Growth is obtained during this process and is achieved by looking deep within oneself. By doing so, a person can discover their strengths and question negative perceptions they have about themselves that do not lead to a healthy lifestyle.
Throughout my career I have had experiences working with a wide range of clients and struggles. I take personal interest in working with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, low self-esteem, perfectionism, body image issues, and disordered eating. It is important to gain a deeper meaning of the types of thoughts, emotions, and actions that are perpetuating these negative mental health concerns, which can be combated by focusing on using one’s strengths, positive thoughts, getting active, and improving connections with important others. In today’s society we feel great pressure to maintain a specific body image, which can lead to negative eating habits, feelings of anxiety over the need to be perfect, and depression and low self-esteem for not fitting this mold. When someone struggles with accepting themselves, this can lead to struggles in their relationships with others as you cannot fully be committed to your relationship with others when you are not fully committed to yourself first. I strive to help my clients feel comfortable in their own skin and to pursue the life that best fits them, not what society pressures them into accomplishing. When it comes to feelings of anxiety and depression, it is often caused by a person’s idea of who they must be. I believe that by discovering who they are and working towards being the best version of that, a person is freed from these feelings, as they no longer have to strive for something that they are not.
When working with my clients, my ultimate goal is for them to reach a place in which they feel they are in control of their own lives and can achieve whatever inspires them. It is important that those who walk through my door feel that they have someone who supports and accepts them unconditionally. Clients that have come in contact with me have noted that they feel they can freely talk without being judged and that I am able to understand where they are coming from. This allows them to feel a sense of trust and reliability they may be lacking in their life.
If you are ready to make that first step toward a more fulfilling life that includes stronger relationships, self-acceptance, and creating the best version of yourself- call today (402) 325-0117 x13 or book online.