Starshemah Duncan
My name is Starshemah Duncan, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) dedicated to delivering compassionate, trauma-informed mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults.
I connect with clients in the place and stage they're at, respecting their individual stories, needs, and dreams, while helping them navigate toward changes that are both meaningful and lasting.
I specialize in guiding individuals through experiences of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and life transitions, while fostering the development of healthy coping strategies, resilience, and enhanced emotional well-being. My mission is to cultivate a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where each client feels heard, respected, and empowered to pursue healing and achieve meaningful, lasting change.
First session
The first session offers a warm, welcoming, and judgment-free environment designed to ensure comfort and safety while sharing personal experiences at an individual pace. It includes exploring the reasons for seeking counseling, discussing concerns and goals, and identifying existing strengths and resources. The aim is to leave the session feeling heard, understood, and optimistic about the journey ahead. Together, a personalized plan will be developed to reflect unique needs and priorities, fostering a trusting therapeutic relationship that supports healing, growth, and emotional well-being. There is no need to have all the answers at the outset; the process will unfold step by step.
Strengths
My counseling approach is distinctive in its emphasis on personalization, compassion, and a holistic understanding of each individual, focusing on the person as a whole rather than solely on their challenges. I foster a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel genuinely heard, respected, and encouraged to actively engage in their healing process. Utilizing trauma-informed, strengths-based, and evidence-based methods, I assist clients in developing practical coping strategies, enhancing relationships, improving emotional well-being, and recognizing their innate resilience. I meet clients where they are, honoring their unique experiences, needs, and aspirations while guiding them toward meaningful, enduring change. My ultimate aim is not just to help clients manage their difficulties, but to empower them to identify their strengths and build a healthier, more rewarding future.
Ideal clients
My ideal clients are children, adolescents, or adults who are ready to engage in personal growth, address emotional challenges, and cultivate healthier strategies for navigating life. I work with individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, and significant life transitions. Additionally, I support couples and families seeking to enhance communication, strengthen bonds, and build more positive connections. These clients may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about their next steps, yet they are committed to investing in their emotional well-being and personal development. I aim to meet each client at their current stage, guiding them to build resilience, recognize their strengths, and develop the confidence and tools necessary to achieve meaningful, lasting change.
Origin story
From a young age, there was always a deep care for others. Family members often shared stories about how there was a constant effort to help those around. Growing up, the desire to assist others and create a safe space was strong. An uncle’s struggles with mental health inspired a pursuit of psychology, and personal experiences as a teenager facing bullying fueled the commitment to provide a safe and trusting environment for individuals dealing with personal and family challenges. Working as a therapist has been a rewarding journey, offering the opportunity to learn immensely from others, witness personal growth, and see people break generational cycles. This work is deeply loved, and collaborating with others to help them become who they are meant to be brings great fulfillment.
Ongoing work together
Ongoing sessions are designed to provide consistent support, encouragement, and practical tools to help navigate life’s challenges and work toward personal goals. Each meeting builds on prior progress, enabling the exploration of emotions, identification of patterns, strengthening of coping skills, and addressing of barriers that may impact well-being. The approach is collaborative and tailored, integrating evidence-based and trauma-informed techniques to foster healthier relationships, enhance confidence, manage stress, and facilitate meaningful change. Progress is celebrated, setbacks are addressed without judgment, and treatment goals are adjusted as needs evolve. The ultimate aim is to empower individuals beyond the therapy room, equipping them with the insight, skills, and confidence to sustain growth and cultivate a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Treatment methods
Person-centered (Rogerian)
I employ a person-centered approach by fostering a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment in which clients feel heard, respected, and accepted. I view each client as the expert on their own experiences, and my role is to guide them toward self-awareness, personal growth, and meaningful change rather than dictate the course of their journey. Through empathy, active listening, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness, I cultivate a trusting therapeutic relationship. By meeting clients at their emotional state and honoring their unique needs, strengths, and values, I enable them to explore their challenges, discover their own solutions, and build the confidence to make decisions that promote their overall well-being.
Location
Virtual sessions