Therapist Spotlight: Madeleine Shaver, LCSW, MAC
Madeleine Shaver works in a private practice setting specializing in eating disorders and chemical dependency. Treatment focus also includes resolving underlying trauma and subsequent codependency issues. She provides psychotherapy for those seeking a new way to live in recovery in these identified areas. General therapeutic services are also addressed- primarily coping strategies for mood disorders, anxiety or OCD, stress management, unwanted chaos, or building supportive relationships. Her practice offers group therapy for women with problematic over-eating patterns. She has a passion for helping others understand themselves, their relationships with loved ones, and finding freedom through Recovery.
GET TO KNOW MADELEINE:
Why Did You Become A Therapist?
“Growing up, my friends and siblings used to talk to me about their feelings or came to me to vent. My dad referred to me as ‘the peacemaker’ in our family. One of my sisters had always wanted me to become a therapist, and she was the strongest influence of my childhood and early adult life. As the youngest child in a big family, I developed a knack for observing others and seeing ‘both sides of the coin.’ I’ve always enjoyed listening to what others have to say. This turned into a passion to help others and a way to honor my sister. I feel so lucky to have found my true calling in life!”
Who Is Your Ideal Client?
“I love working with anyone who feels ready for change but may not know where to begin. Usually, my ideal clients have a history of trauma and adapted to that with alcohol, drugs, or food. Or, they have settled down with someone with these adaptations. My passion includes working with those trying to build meaningful connections in their life by helping them break free from toxic patterns, behaviors, or relationships. I also enjoy working with OCD and anxiety.”
What Is Your Favorite Motto To Share With Clients?
“I have a few: ‘You Are Not Alone,’ ‘You’re Not Crazy,’ or ‘You’re Lovable.’ It depends on what the person needs to hear. So many people enter therapy believing that they are somehow abnormal, “crazy,” bad, unworthy, or difficult. My therapeutic mission is to help clients understand that everyone is inherently lovable. I teach about how negative messages enter our belief systems at a very young age. Our present behavior and relationships reflect those beliefs. I love helping people untangle those messages!”
What Do Your Credentials Stand For, And What Does It Mean?
“LCSW stands for ‘Licensed Clinical Social Worker,’ and MAC stands for ‘Master Addiction Counselor.’ I chose to become a Clinical Social Worker because I love the systems approach. Social Workers look at the whole picture: psychological and biological factors, family and how one was raised, and socio-economic aspects that influence development.”
“My first professional job was at an addiction rehab. Through that experience, I learned to differentiate between mental health issues and the influence of drugs and alcohol on the brain (and also how they overlap). Understanding addiction also lead me to learn how to treat childhood trauma, eating disorders, and sexual compulsivity. Obtaining a specialization in addiction was important in helping anyone experiencing these concerns as well as their family members.”
For Fun: If You Could Be Any Animal In The World, What Would It Be And Why?
“An Elephant! They are my favorite animals on Earth (Seahorses are my favorite ocean creature). I would want to be an elephant because they stick together and are protective, intelligent, and wise.”
If you or a loved one is in need of support, Low Country Counseling offers specialized therapy for Individuals, Moms, Couples, Families, Children, and Teens. Contact us for any questions you need answered or to schedule an appointment. Help is available. You are not alone!
Hope Starts HERE.
