Community Highlights: Meet Shawna of Douglas County Child Therapy

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shawna.

Hi Shawna, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My upbringing instilled in me a deep desire to serve others and support those in need. Throughout high school and college, I volunteered with the Boys and Girls Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters, food kitchens and pantries, domestic violence shelters, and even interned with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. I began my undergraduate studies at Kansas State University in hospitality, but during my junior year I came across an article in the Collegian about family therapy. It immediately resonated with me, and I realized I was being called to a different path. I switched my major to Family Studies and Human Services, with the goal of pursuing a master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy. After graduate school, I worked alongside Child Protective Services, helping families reintegrate children into the home and preserve family stability, while also receiving training in trauma systems and gaining courtroom experience. Once I completed my clinical hours, I transitioned to a community mental health center, specializing in children and families and providing individual, family, and group therapy. When COVID hit, I opened my own private practice, where I continue to work today. I truly love what I do and can’t imagine doing anything else.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, the path was not easy. When we moved from Kansas to Colorado in 2014, it took years to complete my clinical hours and establish myself. I didn’t step into a therapeutic role immediately after graduate school; instead, I worked as a case manager and intake worker before securing a position at Savio House, where I provided in-home therapy. Along the way, I was also navigating major life transitions: getting married, starting a family, and adjusting to a new state. The licensing exam proved to be a challenge as I attempted it three times, missing the passing score by just a point or two each time. Finally, during COVID, I passed. I realized the challenge was less about my competence in the field and more about test-taking, and the perseverance it required ultimately made me stronger as a clinician.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
At Douglas County Child Therapy, I provide compassionate, evidence based support for children and families navigating life’s challenges. I specialize in working with ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and parenting struggles, offering both individual and family sessions. What sets my practice apart is the blend of proven therapeutic approaches such as Trauma Focused CBT, Parent Management Training, and Parent/Child Interaction Therapy with a warm, relational style that helps kids feel safe and parents feel empowered. I want families to know that they don’t have to face hard moments alone; my goal is to be part of their village, giving them tools to heal, connect, and grow stronger together.

If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up, I was always curious about people and relationships. Even as a child, I loved asking questions, observing others, and trying to understand how people connected. I spent a lot of time reading and journaling, often drawn to self-help books and activities that helped me learn more about myself and the world around me. I was creative, playful, and loved spending time outdoors riding bikes with my friends. Being the youngest of three, I would enjoy playing dress up, barbies, and video games with my siblings. I also collected Pokemon cards and still have my collection that I completed with my dad. I also had a compassionate side early on, wanting to be there for others and often stepping into a supportive role with friends and family. My interests ranged from sports like soccer to music, where I enjoyed playing the saxophone, and I was always drawn toward activities that let me express myself or connect deeply with others.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.douglascochildtherapy.com
• Instagram: douglascochildtherapy