Shenika Whitaker-Carlos

With over two decades of dedicated service to youth and families, Shenika Whitaker-Carlos, LCSW, CSOTP, stands at the forefront of mental health care, offering a comprehensive approach to healing and growth. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider, Shenika brings a wealth of experience and specialized skills to her practice at Discovery Counseling & Consulting.

Shenika's journey in the field of mental health is marked by a diverse and impactful career. She has held pivotal roles as a Corrections Counselor, Counselor Supervisor, Aggression and Behavior Management Program Supervisor, Therapist Supervisor, and Mental Health Therapist. This rich background has equipped her with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by individuals and families, particularly in navigating the complexities of mental health stigma.

At the heart of Shenika's practice is a passion for creating an atmosphere of acceptance and inclusion. She specializes in treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, PTSD/Trauma, self-harm, suicidal behaviors, and substance abuse. Her expertise extends to working with individuals aged 11 and up, offering individual, group, and family therapy, as well as crisis intervention services to a diverse population.

Shenika's therapeutic approach is grounded in evidence-based practices. She is skilled in several cutting-edge treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, Cannabis Youth Treatment, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Aggression Replacement Training. As a member of Discovery Counseling's Intensively Trained DBT Team, Shenika is particularly adept at helping clients develop effective coping skills and achieve their personal goals.

Educated at Virginia Commonwealth University, where she earned her Masters in Social Work, Shenika combines academic excellence with practical experience. Her commitment to ongoing professional development ensures that her clients receive the most current and effective treatments available in the field of mental health.

Shenika Whitaker-Carlos is more than just a therapist; she is a dedicated advocate for mental health awareness and a skilled guide on the journey to emotional well-being. Her compassionate approach, coupled with her extensive experience and specialized training, makes her an invaluable resource for individuals and families seeking to overcome mental health challenges and build resilient, fulfilling lives.