Sheila Owens, LCSW

Sheila Owens is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California who helps people facing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and self-esteem struggles. She supports people dealing with grief, trauma, parenting challenges, and life changes. Sheila also works with issues like bipolar disorder, anger, career strain, and concerns related to identity and LGBT matters.

Sheila brings eight years as a licensed clinician plus decades of experience in mental health case management and coordination. That background shaped her practical approach to everyday problems. She listens first, then helps people map small steps that can ease pressure and build confidence.

Conversations with Sheila focus on clear goals and tools that fit daily life. She uses methods such as client-centered work to follow each person’s pace, cognitive behavioral techniques to change unhelpful thinking and behavior, and mindfulness practices to reduce reactivity. Sheila also draws on dialectical behavior strategies and EMDR where appropriate for trauma work.

Her style is respectful and straightforward. She aims to tailor sessions to what each person needs rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions. Sheila describes therapy as a collaborative process where clients set priorities and she helps guide practical progress.

People reach out to Sheila when they want help coping with big emotions, repair strained relationships, or find steadier ground after loss or change. She encourages small steps and steady momentum toward a more manageable life.

How different approaches translate to online sessions

Client-centered therapy focuses on listening and following the client's lead. In online work this often means creating space to talk through what matters most and shaping each session around immediate needs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps people notice patterns of thinking and behavior and then practice small changes. Online CBT sessions typically include brief skill teaching, at-home practice suggestions, and follow-up on how those changes felt. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) offers tools for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and clearer communication. Delivered remotely, DBT skills can be practiced between sessions and reviewed together to refine what works.

Choosing the best approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will discuss different methods and help figure out what fits the client's goals and preferences. That might mean starting with one approach and adding another as needs change.

Confirm the current session options before booking so you know what formats are available. Online therapy can make it easier to fit appointments into a busy life, reduce travel time, and allow more flexible scheduling around work, school, or caregiving. Many people find that having sessions remotely helps them keep consistency and apply skills in real time between meetings.