Shelly Kessinger, LPC

Shelly is a relationship and communication expert with over 14 years of counseling experience.

Specialties: Shelly specializes in teaching communication skills, rebuilding trust, affair recovery, rebuilding emotional connections, and pre-marital counseling. She provides individual, family, and couples counseling. She also teaches a virtual class on communication.

Background: Shelly graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 2006 with a Bachelors of Science degree in Psychology. She received her Masters of Education in Counseling in 2009 from the University of Houston. 

Counseling Style: Professional, Compassionate, Collaborative, Non-Judgmental, Practical, Solution-Focused

Methods: Shelly individualizes treatment based on her clients and their goals. She uses a combination of Gottman method, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy in session.

Why did you become a marriage counselor? My parents had a contentious divorce when I was a child. As a young girl, I would often wonder why some parents stayed married and some parents got divorced. My childhood curiosity led me to my life's work. I believe more marriages can be saved and more divorces can be prevented through learning healthy communication skills and having a strong emotional connection.

Are you married? Yes, I am married with 2 kids. My husband and I have been together for over 16 years. And yes, I definitely "practice what I preach." I use healthy communication tools in my own marriage. My professional education and my personal experiences with marriage and communication have helped me to be a better marriage counselor.

What are your Favorite TV shows? The West Wing (seasons 1-4) and Sex and the City. I also love watching documentaries. 

What are you favorite movies? As Good As It Gets, Click, Gladiator

What is your favorite season? Summer 

What is your favorite holiday? Christmas is the most meaningful to me. But I really love New Year's too.

What is something people don't know about you? I was voted "Class Wittiest" during my senior year in high school. 

What do you do when you are not counseling? I like reading, gardening, going to church, and being outside. I also love coffee, plants, and spending time with family and friends. 

Do you have any favorite quotes? "Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better." - Maya Angelou