Shana Olson, LMSW
Adolescent, Adult, and Family Therapy
We are all faced with challenging transitions, experiences, and emotions throughout our lives. Resolving problems, managing stress and dealing with pain can feel overwhelming. Reaching out and receiving help to navigate these challenges can be difficult. Every person could use therapy at some point to create pathways to a more satisfying life.
You are the expert of your own life, and my purpose is to support and guide you as you make progress toward your goals. I tailor each therapy session for you, as an individual, and work hard to collaborate with and support you.
“When we talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary” –Fred Rogers
Get to Know Me
When it comes to your health and overall well-being, it’s important to have a knowledgeable professional you can turn to. Over the years, I’ve provided counseling and psychological services to patients throughout Washtenaw County. My expertise covers a broad spectrum of mental health services, and I’m happy to share my experience and qualifications.
I engage clients in therapy with a personalized and nonjudgmental approach. I treat adolescents, adults, and families struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, conflictual relationships, and coping with transitions. I incorporate evidence-based treatments including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy.
Professional Experience
2000-2008 – Juvenile Justice (Boysville and Boys Town)
2008- 2013 – School Based Mental Health (Northern Home for Children and Discovery Arts and Technology Academy)
2014-2018 – Psychiatric Partial Hospitalization Program (St. Joseph Mercy Hospital)
2015-present – Private Practice
2021-present - Summer Camp Mental Health Professional (Habonim Dror Camp Tavor)
Education
2005 – Master of Social Work (MSW) – University of Pennsylvania
2000 – Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology – University of Michigan
Individual Therapy
I provide individual therapy for adolescents and adults. My style is interactive and collaborative – I ask a lot of questions and see my role as helping you to understand yourself and identify your own answers.
Individual therapy (sometimes called “psychotherapy” or “counseling”) is a process through which you work to understand your thoughts, feelings, beliefs and behaviors. Working with a trained therapist provides a safe, caring, and confidential environment to explore the impact of family history, relationships, and influential memories. We will identify patterns and aspects of your life that you would like to change. We will set meaningful goals to guide you in understanding yourself, others, and work toward your desired change.
Issues that may be addressed include:
Depression
Anxiety
ADHD
Self-esteem
Anger
Relationships
Life transitions
Grief and loss
Communication issues
Family conflicts
Stress management
Family Therapy
Family relationships are an important factor in overall mental health. Family therapy can help families to deepen their connections and understanding of each other while relieving emotional pain and negative behavior patterns. It can be helpful in any situation which brings stress, grief, confusion, fear, or anger into your family.
My role as a family therapist is to be a neutral voice to facilitate the process of improving communication and resolving conflicts.
Family therapy may consist of all members of a family, or a combination of some members of a family. Who is involved is determined by the nature of the issues to be addressed and the willingness of the participants.
Issues that may be addressed include:
Family conflict
Anger
Grief and Loss
Parental Guidance
Helping a family member with a mental illness
Behavioral Concerns
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder)
Adolescent issues
Rates and Insurance
Rates
45-minute session: $160
60-minute session: $215
The first session runs for approximately 1 hour at a rate of $215. During this session, I will gather information from you and conduct an assessment. I will also provide information about me and the services that I provide. If we determine that it is a good fit to move forward, we will discuss a treatment plan to meet your needs.
Regular sessions are either 45 minutes or 60 minutes. We will decide after the initial session which option would be more appropriate. Frequently, individual sessions are 45 minutes and family sessions are 60 minutes; however, there are adjustments based on needs.
Insurance
I do not bill insurance directly due to the vast number of insurance companies, policies and billing procedures. If you are interested in using your insurance, you must contact your insurance company to determine your benefits and if the services are reimbursable.
I am considered an Out of Network provider. Some insurance companies (typically PPO insurance plans) will reimburse you for all or part of the fees. I will provide you with an itemized bill with a diagnosis and services rendered that you can submit to your insurance company to reimburse you directly.
Please know that payment for services is due at each session regardless of whether or not you plan to be reimbursed by your insurance company. I accept cash, check or debit/credit cards.