Shalawn Childs , MD, LCPC

Shalawn Childs is a licensed clinician with three years of professional experience who provides compassionate support for people navigating stress, anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, and depression. She is licensed in Maryland and Washington and holds the credentials MD and LCPC, with LCPC explained as Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. She brings particular attention to concerns related to chronic pain, illness, and disability, as well as drug and alcohol addiction, family difficulties, first responder issues, and multicultural and prejudice-related challenges.

Shalawn approaches her work from a strengths-based perspective, emphasizing that each person is the expert of their own story and possesses resources to help overcome life’s challenges. She offers therapeutic support for LGBTQ issues and works with clients who are hearing impaired, providing services in both English and American Sign Language. Taking the first step toward greater wellbeing often requires courage, and Shalawn positions herself as a supportive partner in that process, collaborating with clients to identify goals and practical strategies that fit their lives and experiences.

Her practice reflects a focus on evidence-based therapeutic techniques and a commitment to meeting clients where they are, helping them build resilience and coping skills that address both immediate concerns and longer-term growth.

Evidence-Based Approaches and Flexible Online Care

Shalawn uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques that emphasize practical skills and trauma-informed understanding. One common focus is skills-oriented work that helps clients develop coping strategies for stress, anxiety, and mood concerns - these techniques teach concrete tools for managing symptoms and improving daily functioning. She also employs trauma-informed methods that prioritize safety, pacing, and understanding the impact of past harm, which can be especially helpful for people dealing with abuse or other traumatic experiences. Where addiction is a central issue, Shalawn integrates approaches that address both substance use and the underlying emotional or behavioral patterns that maintain it.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Shalawn works with each client to identify goals, preferences, and practical needs, then tailors evidence-based methods to fit the person rather than using a one-size-fits-all model. This partnership helps ensure the approach aligns with the client’s values and life circumstances.

Online therapy with Shalawn offers flexibility through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, making it easier to access care around work, family, or mobility limitations. These options support consistent engagement in therapy and allow clients to receive professional support in formats that suit their daily routines.