MEET shelly
shelly crossland, lpc associate
(she/her)
Associate Therapist
Supervised by Ilyse Kennedy, LMFT-S, LPC-S
“Our stories are not meant for everyone. Hearing them is a privilege.” - Brené Brown
I do not take the privilege of hearing your story lightly. My work as a therapist is to build a safe container where you can unveil your story, and your authentic self, to me. There is so much strength and courage within vulnerability, and showing the most raw version of yourself to a trusted person is one of the best gifts you can give yourself.
About Me
My name is Shelly (she/her). I have been described by clients, peers, and loved ones as open-minded, empathetic, and non-judgmental. I feel these qualities allow me to work with clients from all cultural backgrounds, belief systems, and life experiences. In our sessions together, I commit to showing up as my authentic self, leading with vulnerability and honesty, and hope to help you do the same.
I received training in Sex and Relationship Coaching through the Somatica Institute and received my Masters in Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University. I completed my internship at a sex and relationship therapy private practice, before obtaining my LPC-Associate License and joining Moving Parts Psychotherapy.
Who I Work With
Relationship and Sex Therapy for Women
Are you ready to break free from patterns that hold you back in dating, relationships, or sex? Maybe you find yourself stuck in people-pleasing, perfectionism, anxiety, or struggling as a highly sensitive or Neurodivergent individual, especially when it comes to romantic and sexual relationships. I specialize in helping women in their 20s and 30s who are struggling with anxiety in relationships and sex, or those who are processing past sexual trauma or toxic relationships. Many of my clients notice patterns or traits within themselves which are impacting their relationships and intimacy, leaving them feeling disconnected and at a loss for what might help.
Play Therapy for Children + Adolescents
In addition to my work with adults, I also enjoy working with children and adolescents (ages 3-18), especially those who are neurodivergent or highly sensitive. With a background as a Preschool Teacher, a Registered Behavior Technician working with children on the Autism Spectrum, and as a long-time babysitter, I am able to connect deeply with young people to help them feel understood. My personal experience growing up with undiagnosed ADHD, which manifested as an inability to regulate my emotions, extreme sensitivity, and emotional outbursts, informs this work. I approach this work as an opportunity to nurture my own inner child and offer the support I wish I’d had growing up. I utilize a client-centered, strengths-based approach to play therapy in order to help the children I work with feel safe to express themselves authentically.
My Approach
I believe therapy should be personalized and empowering—tailored to your needs. My approach is compassionate and trauma-informed, integrating Nervous System Regulation, Somatic Experiencing, Attachment Theory, and Trauma-Informed Care to help you rebuild trust in yourself and cultivate healthier relationships. My priority is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel comfortable exploring your emotions and experiences without judgment. In our work together, we’ll explore your past and present, identify patterns, and create a plan for healing.
Healing is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone. If any of this resonates with you, I’d love to connect for a free consultation call to see if we’re a good fit to work together.
Areas of Expertise and Interest
Adults (18+)
Children (3-10) and adolescents (10-18)
Dating and Relationships
Sex and Intimacy
Anxiety
Perfectionism + People Pleasing
Highly Sensitive People (HSP)
Neurodivergence
Self-esteem + Self-Love + Self-Compassion
Attachment wounds (particularly Anxious Attachment)
Sexual Assault Survivors
Trauma, PTSD, CPTSD
Stress, Burnout, Self-care
Women’s Health
Play Therapy
Professional Trainings
Somatica Institute Sex + Relationship Coach Training
Empowered AF Mindset and Life Coach Certification
First Aid/CPR Certified
Education and Licensure
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPC-A), supervised by Ilyse Kennedy, LPC-S, LMFT-S
M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Northwestern University
B.S. Strategic Communication, Texas Christian University
Fees and Services
I am currently accepting new clients and would love to schedule a consultation call!
I provide individual therapy for children, adolescents, and adults in the state of Texas. I offer in-person sessions for clients in Austin, and virtual sessions for anyone in Texas. All virtual sessions will be conducted using a HIPAA compliant telehealth platform. I recommend in-person sessions for children and adolescents. I have some evening and weekend availability.
Individual Therapy
$130 for 50-minute sessions
$180 for 80-minute sessions
I currently have a limited amount of sliding scale rates available, which can be discussed on the consultation call. While I do not accept insurance, I can provide monthly receipts (superbills) for you to submit to your insurance company for possible out-of-network reimbursement.