Dr. Shannon Derby, LMHC

Dr. Shannon Derby is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) practicing in Florida with 25 years of professional experience helping people navigate stress, anxiety, addictions, anger, low self-esteem, and major life changes. She brings a calm, respectful, and compassionate approach to therapy and adapts her conversations and treatment plans to each person’s unique needs and goals. Her work emphasizes practical skills for motivation and confidence while addressing the emotional and behavioral patterns that make change difficult. Dr. Derby frames therapy as a collaborative process, supporting clients as they take courageous first steps toward a more fulfilling life and adjusting pace and strategies to fit individual readiness. With long experience across a range of concerns, she focuses on clear communication, individualized care, and steady encouragement to help clients move toward meaningful, manageable change.

Approaches for Online Therapy and Personal Growth

Dr. Shannon Derby commonly uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Attachment-Based Therapy, and often integrates elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to match clients’ needs. ACT focuses on helping people clarify their values and build practical skills for accepting difficult feelings while taking meaningful action - it can be useful for stress, anxiety, and coping with life transitions. Attachment-Based Therapy explores how early relationship patterns affect current connections and emotional responses, which can support work on intimacy, trust, and relationship or family concerns. CBT helps identify and change unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns through practical exercises and problem-solving techniques, which can assist with mood, anxiety, and behavioral challenges.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Dr. Derby works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods fit their goals, preferences, and stage of change, adjusting techniques as progress unfolds. The aim is to tailor a plan that feels manageable and relevant to the client’s life.

Online therapy with Dr. Derby is offered by video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, providing flexibility for busy schedules and different comfort levels. These options make it easier to access licensed professionals from home or work and allow sessions to fit into everyday life while maintaining continuity of care.