Shirley Souder , LMFT, LCSW

Shirley Souder is a seasoned therapist whose background combines formal psychology training with faith-informed counseling. She earned a Christian Counseling degree with a theology minor from Fort Wayne Bible College, a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Industrial Psychology from the University of St. Francis, and a master’s degree in psychology from the same university. In addition to these academic credentials, she holds LMFT and LCSW licenses - LMFT meaning Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and LCSW meaning Licensed Clinical Social Worker - which reflect training in both family systems and clinical social work.

Her clinical orientation draws on William Glasser’s Reality Therapy, asking practical questions about how current behaviors serve clients and what changes they want to make. She blends that pragmatic framework with Christian Counseling practices, teaching people how to study the Word and apply spiritual insights to everyday decisions. Emotional forgiveness skills are a particular focus, and she offers guidance on applying those skills in relationships and personal growth.

Shirley works effectively with teens and adults across individual and marital concerns, and she supports widows and widowers adjusting to new normal life skills. She also assists with practical life needs such as interview preparation, nutrition suggestions, personality and behavior challenges, and strategies for coping with difficult people. Her approach emphasizes applied tools and faith-informed reflection to help clients navigate change and strengthen relationships.

Integrating Therapeutic Approaches in Online Sessions

Shirley draws on Attachment-Based Therapy to explore how early relationship patterns shape current connections - this approach helps clients understand and improve their close relationships by identifying attachment needs and responses. She also uses Client-Centered Therapy, offering a respectful, empathetic stance that lets clients set the pace and focus while the therapist provides support and reflection to foster self-awareness and growth. In addition, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps clients identify and shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, which can be useful for managing stress, anxiety, and patterns that interfere with daily functioning.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process and Shirley works collaboratively with clients to determine which methods best fit their needs, goals, and personal preferences. She combines techniques when appropriate and adjusts the plan as clients progress.

Online therapy with Shirley is offered through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, providing flexibility for busy schedules, mobility limitations, or distance. These options allow clients to engage in consistent care, access support from their chosen setting, and continue work on relationship, emotional, and practical life challenges with a licensed professional.