Find a therapist, counselor or psychologist in Baton Rouge, LA

"As a person who has experienced lots of loss, I can understand how feelings can be overwhelming and come in waves."

Hi my name is Desiree Shaw and I am a LPC. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Louisiana State University. I also earned a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from University of Phoenix. I work with adult individuals who have experienced grief, loss, chronic illness and those going through tough life transitions.

I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as my therapeutic model. I help you challenge negative thoughts and help you find thoughts that are more useful.

With 6 years of experience, I know how heavy life can feel when things are out of place. My practice is a safe, warm space completely free of judgment where you can truly be heard. I meet you exactly where you are with deep empathy.

"As a woman who identifies with a number of mental health challenges, I feel I can best help others who are experiencing many types of challenges."

Stephanie B. Dean, MA, LPC, is a Christian Counselor with more than 7 years of experience and training in assisting children, teens, adults, and seniors with concerns related to women’s issues, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, attention-deficit disorders (ADHD), family-of-origin issues, low self-esteem, and more. Stephanie possesses special skills and experience in working with patients to uncover core issues and get to the “root of the problem”, especially in cases in which feelings of extreme guilt or shame are involved. Additionally, Mrs. Dean has personal experience and skills in working with individuals who have experienced trauma such as catastrophic events, sexual abuse, physical abuse, or neglect. 

Stephanie earned her Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and is the founder of Greater Bogalusa Community Center, a nonprofit, human services organization in Bogalusa, LA. She primarily counsels from a client-centered, psychodynamic approach and may employ counseling modalities of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solutions-focused brief therapy (SFBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), motivational interviewing, and “priming” psychology for self-actualization. 

Stephanie seeks to develop a warm and caring relationship with you while collaborating with you to reach your counseling goals. She counsels from a strengths-based, goal-focused perspective while building the client-counselor relationship; she listens with genuine empathy and understands many issues from personal experience. Stephanie believes that all individuals possess the innate ability to create and live any life they choose. 

"I make every effort to provide a warm and encouraging environment while offering the professional tools and guidance to assist clients on their individual and unique journey."

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a solid background and extensive work experience, having spent over 23 years in the mental health counseling field. I have worked successfully with a wide variety of mental health, sexual, emotional, domestic violence, and other abusive situations, as well as behavioral therapy disorders. I have found success with clients whose cases range from less intensive to those of significant intensity. I am experienced in individual, marriage, and family counseling.

I earned my Master's in Guidance and Counseling from Louisiana Tech University. I understand that every person is unique and deserving of an individualized approach to treatment while also ensuring growth, autonomy, and respect for my clients.

I understand that at times things may seem overwhelming and confusing. I provide a space grounded in honesty, dignity, and real support, helping clients build confidence, restore hope, and reconnect with their strengths. Schedule your first appointment today!

"Over the years, I have worked extensively with children and adolescents, though my practice is not exclusively focused on that population."

Traig Varnado is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 27 years of experience in the mental health field. Traig has worked extensively with children and adolescents while also supporting individuals, couples, and families through life’s challenges. His areas of focus include depression, anxiety, grief, parenting support, and conflict resolution. Traig is passionate about helping clients heal, grow, and reach their full potential through compassionate, solution-focused care.

Traig earned his Master’s in Social Work from Southern University of New Orleans. His approach is rooted in evidence-based methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused techniques. He works to meet clients where they are with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a strong commitment to client-centered care.

If you’re seeking a trusted guide to help you navigate life’s emotional and behavioral challenges, Traig is here to support your journey. His goal is to provide a personalized, safe space that empowers healing, self-discovery, and long-term growth.

"Oftentimes we wear a mask to survive our days. I am here to offer you the safe space where your mask is no longer required."

Charniece Scott is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 15 years of experience in mental and behavioral health. She has developed a dedicated career in working with adolescents, young to middle-aged adults, and families with a wide range of concerns including depression, stress/anxiety, crisis intervention, difficult life transitions, family conflicts, grief and loss, relationship challenges, and anger management. Charniece has a diverse background in medical social work and is also a functional family therapist.

Charniece earned her Master of Social Work from Louisiana State University. Through cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and humanistic-based techniques, Charniece fosters a warm and collaborative therapeutic environment within her practice.

Charniece believes in the power of an authentic clinician-client relationship grounded in respect, sensitivity, and compassion. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life by taking the first step towards change. If you are ready to begin your journey, Charniece wants to empower you and provide her unwavering support.