Shelby Leske

Shelby received her Masters Degree in Counseling and Psychological Services from St Mary's University and is working towards licensure as a professional clinical counselor. Shelby has worked in community mental health settings for the past 7 years and has extensive experience working with adults experiencing severe and/or persistent mental health concerns. In addition, Shelby has received substantial training in supporting persons who have experienced sexual violence in both therapy settings and a crisis center. She has also co-led groups for women who have experienced sexual violence at Shakopee Correctional Facility. Shelby primarily works with adults 18+ and has extensive experience providing services concerning depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem, psychosis, sexual violence and crisis intervention.

Shelby has an eclectic approach to therapy and draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Solutions-Focused Therapy. She also practices harm reduction.

Shelby describes her therapeutic style as person-centered, relational and client driven. "I believe that each person is the expert on their life and that we all need support at different times throughout our lives, especially in navigating difficult times or situations. It is my goal to provide a safe and welcoming space for you to feel empowered in making decisions and build skills that suit your individual needs and desires. I believe therapy should be interactive and client-driven, and I will meet you where you are at - whether you are considering changes or ready to make them. I like to acknowledge and work through both things that we have control over and the outside forces that impact our daily lives, and bring in humor when appropriate."

Thank you for taking your time to see what River Valley Behavioral Health & Wellness Center is all about. We believe in guiding wellness from the inside out. If you are looking to schedule your first appointment with us, you will need to fill out an intake form. You can do that by calling our administrative team or sending us a message. Please let us know what is bringing you in and what you are looking to work on.