I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor, and Approved Clinical Supervisor with over 18 years of experience in the field of mental health counseling. I hold a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Old Dominion University, a Master’s degree in Counseling, and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology.
I primarily work with adults who feel stuck and are longing for deeper meaning in their lives. Many of my clients are navigating trauma, grief, anxiety, relationship concerns, identity exploration, or major life transitions. I am especially passionate about supporting adults navigating grief, loss, and bereavement, aging and later-life transitions, and individuals working through identity-based issues, including the impact of discrimination, stigma, and culturally oppressive systems. My goal is to help clients feel empowered, understood, and supported as they challenge limiting beliefs and reconnect with their sense of agency.
Clinically, I specialize in trauma processing, grief work, addressing negative thoughts and core beliefs, and examining how systemic and cultural factors shape mental health. I have extensive experience working with substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health conditions, and the long-term effects of trauma. I bring a systems-aware lens to how culture and context shape mental health and identity.
My therapeutic approach integrates cognitive therapy, existential therapy, and narrative therapy. In our work together, we may explore deeper questions of meaning, purpose, and identity while also building practical tools to challenge unhelpful thinking patterns and create sustainable change. I view therapy as a collaborative process where you are the expert on your life, and I provide guidance, structure, and reflection to help you move forward in ways that align with your values.
Outside of my work, I enjoy listening to audiobooks, traveling, attending K-pop concerts, and spending time with family and friends.
LaShauna Dean, Ph.D., LPC, ACS, NCC
About Me
My Approach
