DBT40 Honoree: Shawnisha Thomas

Title: CEO/ Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health

Shawnisha Thomas | DBT PHOTO BY LUIGI CIUFFETELLI

Workplace: Thomas Clinical Consultation Services LLC

Age: 38

Shawnisha Thomas cannot sit in silence and now she’s found herself working with others to help find their voice and navigate their mental health struggles. For the past decade, she has built a career as a therapist with certifications in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy. She is also trained in mindfulness therapy. She is currently a licensed professional in Delaware and Pennsylvania.

Thomas started what she calls her life’s work in Philadelphia and worked to meet patients where they were with a mobile service in Montgomery County. She later arrived in Delaware to serve as a lead community therapist with the Delaware Guidance Services for Youth and Families, later moving up to serve as a professional and school counselor. Throughout her work, Thomas has honed her skills to provide top-notch care for families, children and individuals.

In December 2019, Thomas decided to strike out and start her own clinical consultation service in Smyrna. Since then, she has developed a safe space for clients as she continues her work in trauma-focused treatment for children and families. Thomas has also advocated as part of the local chapter of the Postpartum Support International as the organization moves forward with updating law to provide more access to equitable care in perinatal mental health. She is also an active member of the Delaware State University’s Counseling and Prevention Initiative to improve student and campus life, and has spoken at many public events across the state and region.

Her passion for mental health advocacy also extends to creative pursuits – she has authored a children’s book titled “Wollie and the Wandering Repeat.” She plans to continue teaching children about the effects of trauma through her writing.