Jennifer Shea-Danalewich, MSW, LCSW

My name is Jennifer Shea-Danalewich and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 35 years of experience.  I have worked in a variety of settings with individuals of varying ages.  I offer a warm, nurturing place with a personal and professional philosophy that hope can replace discouragement and sorrow, while healing can coincide with new goals that are reconciled within a sense of peace, emotional well-being and a healthy plan for the future.

There are times when life challenges and painful experiences seem to cry out for reassurance, encouragement and a renewed sense of hope and confidence.  Unexpected change, life transitions, family issues, parenting, navigating the school system, post-abortion trauma, and caring for aging parents can trigger varying levels of chronic stress, anxiety, depression and a hole in one’s heart that can be difficult to manage without support.  Choosing to engage in therapy is a courageous decision that draws on one’s resilience and vulnerability at the same time.  Such a decision does, however, emerge from an inner belief that things can get better.  It is through a willingness to share that I am available to help my clients establish a positive path forward.

My approach to therapy is solution-focused with an emphasis on problem-solving, empathy and a focus on client strengths and resources.  The Catholic faith is an essential source of understanding and offers a depth of meaning around life experiences for many people.  I offer integration of the Catholic faith and therapy for this reason.  I am a practicing Catholic and have a working knowledge of Catholic church.

In addition to the areas above, I work with adolescents who are anticipating graduation and need assistance to establish next steps into adulthood.  This stage in their lives is often filled with uncertainty that can lead to anxiety, frustration and even depression.  My background in the field of education and knowledge of special education offers a unique foundation of support and guidance through these transitions with various aspects of the school system in mind. 

I have extensive knowledge and expertise in the field of aging and senior care.  I offer support for adult children of aging parents who are in a caregiving role.  I am available to help establish a deeper understanding of dementia and other issues that impact older adults’ quality of life, functional capacity and independence.  I am able to provide a foundation of reassurance that families need when faced with unpredictable healthcare needs that require complex decision-making, navigation of senior care and knowledge of available resources.

One of my deepest and most heartfelt passions is to support, guide and educate individuals who are struggling with grief and loss.  Although grief is a natural part of life and often associated with the death of a loved one, it can also emerge in the form of complicated, anticipatory, and traumatic grief.  It is important to know that grief is also a normal response to divorce, miscarriage, diminished capacity, post-abortion and other forms of heartbreaking loss.  Grief is not intended to be experienced alone.  I am available to walk this journey with you and to help you find answers while offering hope, guidance and understanding along the way toward acceptance and peace.

I believe a genuine connection and relationship between therapist and client is of the highest priority.  It ensures a depth of sincerity and empathy that leads to the opportunity for openness, trust and the establishment of meaningful therapy goals.  If you feel I can be of support to you based on the information I have shared above, please do not hesitate to reach out to me to set up an initial meeting.