david shanks, LaC

Licensed associate Counselor

David earned his MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Franciscan University. His formation there, along with his Catholic faith, anchors his view of each person as a relational being with the capacity for healing and growth. While grounded in these values, his clinical experience has been primarily with clients from non-religious backgrounds, and he welcomes anyone seeking support.

David approaches counseling with the belief that meaningful change begins in relationship. Healing does not come from being fixed, but from being heard and understood in a collaborative environment. In session, he works to create a place where clients can explore what feels unsafe and begin to reconnect with parts of themselves that have been neglected. His work is shaped by the idea that defenses that once made sense can be unburdened and transformed through the therapeutic relationship.

 David’s clinical expertise draws from the Interpersonal Process model and Internal Family Systems, both of which focus on the deep influence of relationships in our lives. He also uses targeted strategies, such as Prolonged Exposure and narrative work, when addressing trauma and other high-impact concerns. He has worked with a wide range of clients, mostly children, teens, and families, including those experiencing autism, self-harm, eating disorders, suicidal ideation, or disordered conduct.

He is also trained in play therapy techniques, behavior intervention, and crisis response, holding both RBT certification and safety care training. During his clinical training, David also formed and led a parent coaching program designed to address both child concerns and issues in parenting dynamics.

Outside of his work, David enjoys fitness, poetry, and photography. Whether lifting weights, writing lines, or capturing still moments, he finds creativity and movement to be grounding parts of life.

Specialization

• Trauma and PTSD

• Depression and Self-Harm

• Children, Adolescents, and Families

• Eating Disorders

• Attachment and Relational Wounds

Rates & Insurance

Self Pay Rate (50 minute session): $135

Can accept most plans under AETNA, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Solidarity Healthshare

LAC’s cannot accept United Healthcare or Optum plans

Locations

Phoenix Office & Telehealth