About Me
The Professional Side
I am Shawn Clark-Martinez and I am a Master of Social Work (MSW) graduate and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who aims to effectively incorporate many years of experience in various roles working with children and families into a therapeutic process that helps better the lives of individuals, families, and the communities they are a part of. I have a special interest in working with youth, adolescents, and families within the LGBTQ community, providing caregiver training and therapeutic intervention for families experiencing behavioral concerns with a child, as well as using a systems perspective to help families of children with neurodevelopmental disorders navigate life. In addition to many years in early childhood education and in the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA), I also have clinical experience working with individuals (children, adolescents, and adults) and groups involving managing and/or processing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, trauma, and caregiver training. Professionally, I am motivated to help others overcome life's inevitable challenges and develop their strengths into the skills and support systems that are sufficient to address their needs. I integrate modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), internal family systems (IFS), motivational interviewing (MI), as well as trauma-, and systems-based approaches. My approach is tailored to individual or family needs and goals.
The Personal Side
I was born and raised in Austin, TX. I moved away to San Antonio, TX to pursue my BS in Architecture. While working toward a career in architecture, I found that I loved connected with children and families, supporting them through child developmental stages, being an ear during difficult times, and working collaboratively to address concerns throughout my years as a preschool and after school teacher. I eventually made the move to work in the field of ABA when I relocated to the Houston area. My favorite experience was as a case manager entrusted with the task to provide parent training sessions. After considering which degree to pursue for several years, I landed on Social Work. After returning to Austin, I completed my Masters of Social Work and have since been able to combine the structure and creativity I learned in architecture with the development of knowledge and skills in improving human well-being I received in social work to support navigating the nuances daily life.
In my free time, I enjoy reading, hikes, paddleboarding, working out and sports, listening and playing music, going to live concerts, and arts and crafts. I love to get out in nature and practice being fully present and attuned to the environment; a skill I continue to develop. I enjoy playing recreational sports and am currently playing softball. I love spending time with my family and friends and always appreciate a time where laughter is the main event. Whether it a trip to dinner, a walk, game night, or spending time outdoors, I have a great appreciation for continuing to learning about and supporting my loved ones as their lives evolve.
As with any human, I have had my own difficult times in life and believe that if I can provide the support that I have been shown to at least one person, pursuing this profession is well worth it.
Contact Me
Interested in working together? Fill out some info and I will be in touch shortly. I can’t wait to hear from you!