Meet the Founder
Sharon Skelton, LMFT
Psychotherapy is a second career for me, and the work I can foresee doing until I’m 80. Every day I am amazed by the profound changes that can happen when people take time to examine their lives wholeheartedly.
I came to the practice of psychotherapy through the field of education. I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from UCLA and a Masters in Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy University. I hold an earned specialization in Children and Adolescent Psychology, though I work exclusively with adults.
At UCLA I trained to teach autistic children at the Clinic for the Behavioral Treatment of Children, and continued that work in the private sector for a number of years. I completed my education degree at San Francisco State University and taught schoolchildren ages 6 to 10 in a multiage classroom for ten years.
I’ve worked in counseling centers and mental health agencies, and as a school-based counselor in several districts. I am a certified EMDR therapist and full member of EMDRIA, the EMDR International Association. I am approved by EMDRIA to provide profession consultation to EMDR Therapist worldwide. My experience is that EMDR can be remarkably effective in reducing or removing the negative effects of trauma.
I am a lifelong student of yoga, meditation, and many of the world’s spiritual traditions.
It is my habit to study the texts and practices of as many of the world’s wisdom traditions as I can. I often use mindfulness practices, like guided imagery, in my therapeutic work. The research showing the psychological and neurobiological benefits of mindfulness techniques, including prayer, is extensive and still growing. To keep up on this research, I follow the work of Dr. Daniel Siegel Dr. Kristin Neff, and Dr. Bessel Van Der Kolk. I continue to study the work of Dr. Brene’ Brown and am a certified Daring Way™ facilitator.
I offer personal therapy, grief counseling, and EMDR therapy for trauma. Whether you’re seeking to navigate life’s challenges, cope with loss, or heal from traumatic experiences, my approach is tailored to support your unique needs.
My children are adults and my husband and I have been married over 30 years. On off days, I work in my vegetable garden, cook, and take long walks. I am a reader, a lover of the Sierras, and keep chickens.
Clients and friends often ask me, “How can you do it? Doesn’t being a therapist bring you down?” And my answer to that is, unequivocally, that I love my work. I feel so privileged to help people who are working to live more authentically and find more joy in their relationships. I believe that my work benefits everyone.
Personal Therapy
This moment of change is important because you are. Therapy can help you find new perspectives, new skills, and next steps.
Grief Counseling
Walking the road through grief with a professional who understands it can help you regroup faster, and heal in a deeper way.
EMDR Therapy for Trauma
I use effective treatments like EMDR Therapy and Brainspotting to help your body and mind repair from traumatic experiences.
Professional Affiliations:
AAMFT
American Association of Marriage & Family Therapists
CAMFT
California Association of Marriage & Family Therapists
EMDRIA
EMDR International Association
Ready to transform your life?
Take the first step towards a more authentic and joyful life today. Schedule an appointment with Sharon Skelton, LMFT, and experience the profound changes that therapy can offer. Whether you’re dealing with trauma, grief, or seeking personal growth, Sharon’s expertise and compassionate approach can help you find new perspectives, skills, and steps forward. Don’t wait—contact us now to begin your journey to healing and self-discovery.