Grief, Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorder
LGBTQ+ Community Experience
Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Erin
Dr. Erin Sheplavy is a Licensed Psychologist and Drama Therapist with 7 years of experience in the mental health field. Dr. Erin has worked in various settings such as schools, partial hospitalization, community mental health, and private practice, which has allowed them to gain a wide range of skills to create individualized treatment approaches for each client. They are passionate about helping adolescents, young adults, parents, and couples explore, process, and work through patterns and behaviors that may cause stress, tension, or distress. Dr. Erin specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, gender and sexuality, life transitions, eating disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, anger management, women's issues, self-esteem, and relationship issues.
Dr. Erin completed their Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD) at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, and their Drama Therapy training through the alternative track at the Center for Creative Arts Therapy. Creativity is an important part of their life and they bring this into their therapeutic work through working collaboratively with clients to find an individualized approach that best suits their needs in therapy. Dr. Erin's work with clients is based in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TFCBT), relational therapy, and client-centered therapy. In working with diverse clientele throughout their career, they value exploring the various systems at play within a client's life including family rules, gender roles, racism, power dynamics, homophobia, transphobia, fatphobia, and more. Dr. Erin has training in exposure response prevention and eating disorders in which they can work with clients to foster an effective relationship with food and their body as well as help individuals gain control over their fears, worries, and compulsions. In prioritizing creating an individualized approach, they also recognize that not everyone can express their emotions and experiences through words. Dr. Erin's training in Drama Therapy allows them to create a space in which clients can explore through use of art, poetry, movement, song, and embodiment in order to express themselves.
We live in a society that prioritizes productivity, perfection, grit, and perseverance, which can create unattainable standards and high levels of stress. Life is filled with transitions, loss, growth, and expectations that can make it difficult to find clarity in your wants, needs, and identity. Dr. Erin is ready to support you in working through these experiences in order to build skills, insight, and perspective that can help you lead a more authentic and effective life.
"As a queer femme psychologist who has specialized in working with teens, young adults, and parents, I understand that life transitions, systemic pressures, and relational dynamics can be stressful and complex."
Get to know Erin
Why did you decide to become a counselor?
When I was a teenager, I was bullied and struggled with the emotional impact. I also watched some of my friends struggle with mental health and life experiences. Many of us struggled to find adults that could support us in what we were going through. It was after this experience that I decided that I wanted to become a therapist so that I could become an adult that supports teens, young adults, and families.
What types of clients do you work with best?
I work best with clients who are open to building a connection and collaborate to create a safe space to explore, process, and learn. I also work best with clients who value from the ability to go with the flow and find a balance between structure and spontaneity.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
I am excited to work with clients who are motivated to learn more about themselves and make changes in their lives.
What’s one thing you wish all clients knew?
I wish all clients knew that therapy isn't about an expert telling you what to do. It is a collaborative connection between two individuals in which the therapist can guide or walk alongside you as you work through your struggles.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
I chose to practice at Thriveworks because it fosters an environment in which there is trust in my personal professional style and approach to therapy as well as opportunities to collaborate with other clinicians and continue to grow my skillset.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by the arts. I find that the ways in which emotionality, messages, and connections can transcend through various forms of art created by people of all ages is incredibly moving and inspiring.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
In a first session, we will explore any questions about the therapy process and my approach to therapy. Then we will use the rest of our time to get to know each other and/or jump right into work, if that's what you prefer.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
I want to seek connection, start to build clarity in what the process of therapy will look like, and begin to build a safe space together.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first counseling session?
I value a collaborative approach, which means we will engage in dialogue and often work together as a team to figure out our next best steps. I also believe an important part of my job as your therapist is to help keep you on track towards the goals you have sought to accomplish, which at times may mean having conversations about any avoidance or resistance that may be entering the space.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
I like to perform in musicals throughout Northeast Ohio. I consult with theatres to help them create emotionally safe spaces and approaches to rehearsing and performing. I cheer on all the Cleveland Sports teams and I spend time with my dog.
What’s one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
I value awareness and curiosity. This leads to self-reflection and compassion towards myself and others that can foster understanding, connection, and growth.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 10 years
- Graduating institute
- The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
- Graduating degree
- Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology
Additional details
Practice information
Publications, Accomplishments & Awards
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