Calera, AL Local Support & Community Resources

LaShanda Banks is a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with over 16 years of dedicated experience in the field of mental health. She is passionate about advocating for the well-being of individuals at every stage of life, from preteens to elders. LaShanda understands that mental health is paramount, significantly influencing one’s quality of life and daily functioning. Throughout her career, she has provided therapeutic services to a diverse range of populations including children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. With a wealth of knowledge in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma (including psychological and emotional challenges), as well as grief and mood disruptions, she utilizes evidence-based techniques that yield proven results. Her expertise includes mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and trauma-informed care. LaShanda firmly believes that life can present unexpected challenges, making it crucial to seek guidance and support. She emphasizes that no one has to navigate their struggles alone, reinforcing the idea that humility is a form of strength that empowers individuals to overcome their difficulties.

Rachel Graves is a compassionate therapist whose approach is rooted in a humanistic perspective, emphasizing that individuals are inherently motivated towards well-being and self-actualization. In a safe and supportive environment, Rachel creates opportunities for insight that empower her clients to change negative patterns and discover hope and healing. With an advocacy orientation, Rachel implements empowerment strategies to help identify and overcome external barriers that hinder individual growth and self-advocacy skills. She skillfully guides clients through traumatic experiences and the impacts of their life challenges, striving to return them to a state of healthy functioning. Her expertise includes addressing a broad range of issues such as trauma and PTSD, anxiety, and grief, along with utilizing diverse modalities like Expressive Arts, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Play Therapy, making her a valuable ally for preteens, children, teens, adults, and elders alike.