Shannon McDonald

Background

Shannon is a counselor and training coordinator in the University Counseling Center. She has served in various roles during her tenure in higher education within the areas of residence life, orientation, financial aid, academic advising and counseling. In addition to her experience in education, Shannon has worked in community mental health and spent over six years with a global health service company working with their community support and employee assistance programs.

Shannon has lived in rural Northeast Ohio for most of her life except for the past 15 years in which she has resided in Appalachian Ohio.

Outside of her clinical work, she enjoys spending time outdoors, especially water-based activities such as paddle boarding, jet-skiing and searching for beach glass. She also enjoys birdwatching, paper crafting, and spending time with her dogs. These interests help her maintain balance and bring presence and authenticity into her work as a counselor.

Areas of Expertise

Shannon is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a supervision endorsement (LPCC-S) dedicated to supporting individuals as they navigate life’s challenges and transitions. Her clinical training includes experience working with individuals facing anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, grief and loss, and life transitions.

Shannon's therapeutic approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and grounded in evidence-based practices. She strives to create a supportive and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to develop practical skills for growth and healing. She believes counseling is most effective when clients are active participants in the process, and works alongside them to identify goals that align with their values and lived experiences.

Shannon is particularly interested in working with emerging adults and individuals seeking support with self-esteem, emotional regulation, and personal development. She integrates mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral strategies, and trauma-informed care into the work, while remaining responsive to each client’s unique needs and cultural context.

Education

Shannon earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Marketing) and a master’s degree in Higher Education Administration and Student Personnel from Kent State University. She also has a master's degree in Counseling and Human Development - Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling from Walsh University.