Sharleen Nwakwesi , LCSW

Sharleen Nwakwesi is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in Florida with 28 years of clinical experience. She earned a bachelor of arts in psychology, a bachelor of social work, and a master of social work from the Universities of Toronto and York - credentials that reflect formal training in mental health, social services, and clinical practice.

Her therapeutic stance is client-centered and solution-focused, emphasizing a respectful, non-judgmental partnership. She works collaboratively with individuals and families to identify strengths, clarify goals, and develop practical steps that support meaningful change. Sharleen guides clients toward decisions and coping strategies that fit their values and circumstances while fostering trust and mutual respect throughout the process.

Sharleen supports people facing a wide range of concerns including stress, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, depression, major life adjustments, relationship and family difficulties, trauma and abuse, anger, career challenges, bipolar disorder, compassion fatigue, and ADHD. She also has focused experience with aging and geriatric issues, cancer, caregiver stress, commitment and communication problems, isolation and social anxiety, prejudice and discrimination, and traumatic brain injury. Much of her practice addresses the impact of physical illness and disability - for example adjustment to acute or chronic medical conditions, acquired brain injury, dementia, bereavement, and related caregiver strain - alongside emotional and behavioral symptoms such as depression and anxiety.

Her work integrates practical techniques from several therapeutic approaches and aims to help people build on existing resources to navigate life transitions and improve day-to-day functioning.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Sharleen uses client-centered therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy as core methods in her practice. Client-centered therapy focuses on building a respectful, empathetic relationship that helps people explore their values and priorities while identifying their own solutions; it is often helpful for stress, life transitions, self-esteem, and relationship concerns. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) emphasizes practical skills to identify and shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, which can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and some behavioral patterns.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. Sharleen works with each person to determine which strategies fit their needs, goals, and preferences, blending techniques as appropriate so the plan evolves with the client’s progress.

Online care offers flexibility to access therapy from different locations and at varied times. Sessions can be scheduled as video calls, phone conversations, live chat, or text-based messaging, allowing people to choose the format that best fits their schedule, energy level, and communication style. This flexible access supports continuity of care and makes it easier to maintain progress through life’s changes.