Bella Shankel, ACSW

Bella is a compassionate therapist who empowers individuals and families to build resilience, improve relationships, and navigate life’s challenges. She tailors her approach to each client’s unique needs, incorporating evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and family systems therapy, alongside creative tools such as art, movement, and games to encourage self-expression and healing. Bella specializes in helping clients develop coping skills, manage emotions, and improve communication within family dynamics. Her individualized approach ensures that clients feel supported in ways that best suit their therapeutic goals.

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With a background in school social work and special education, Bella brings unique expertise in addressing the social, academic, and developmental challenges students face. She provides psychoeducation and tools to help families support their children at home while aligning her therapeutic services with clients’ school experiences. Bella has worked extensively with diverse populations, including foster youth, LGBTQ+ adolescents, and English Language Learners, offering affirming care to help clients embrace their authentic selves. She holds a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor’s in Social Work from Colorado State University and continues to support students as a mental health counselor at a local elementary school alongside her role at Open Minds.

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ACSW  #119992 - California BBS