Dhara Shah - MA - Mental Health Counseling

At IShine Behavioral Health, we are proud to have Dhara Shah as part of our compassionate clinical team. Dhara holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and is currently working toward obtaining her Illinois Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential. She is dedicated to providing thoughtful, client-centered care in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment.

Dhara works with individuals across the lifespan, helping clients navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, self-esteem, and life transitions. She is committed to creating a safe space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences.

Her approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and strengths-based. Dhara integrates person-centered and trauma-informed care while helping clients develop practical coping strategies, increase emotional awareness, and build healthier ways to manage stress and life’s challenges. She believes that therapy is a partnership grounded in trust, respect, and authenticity.

When working with children and adolescents, Dhara incorporates creative techniques such as art and play-based interventions to encourage expression in a comfortable and engaging way. She also integrates mindfulness practices, meditation, and affirmations to help clients build self-awareness, emotional regulation, and self-compassion—tools that can be carried into everyday life.

Dhara believes that each individual already holds the capacity for growth and healing. By fostering a warm, supportive environment, she helps clients recognize their resilience, build on their strengths, and move toward meaningful, lasting change.

Whether you are beginning therapy for the first time or continuing your journey, Dhara is here to support you with empathy, understanding, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. Take the next step and reach out today to start your path toward healing and personal growth.