May Shanahan, LSW, MSW, IL | Psychotherapist

About May Shanahan

Focus areas

Childhood Trauma

Psychodynamic Therapy

Personality Disorder

Self-Harm / Injury

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Clientele seen

Teenagers (13-17)

Seniors (65+)

Young adults (18-24)

Individuals

Adults (25-64)

Treatment approaches

Psychodynamic

Attachment-based

Existential

Trauma Focused

Feminist

Psychoanalytic

Identity

Gender

Female

Languages spoken

English

Getting to know May Shanahan

My approach is grounded in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic theory, which means we will work together to gently explore the parts of your inner world that often live just beneath the surface: the patterns, feelings, and histories that shape how you move through the world. I believe that our earliest connections and experiences leave traces that continue to influence us; making sense of these threads can open up new possibilities for how we relate to ourselves and others. While we understand you in the context of the systems (social, political, cultural, environmental, etc.) and personal histories you navigate, I see therapy as a space to cultivate a deeper sense of agency. We will honor your past while working to discover where your present-day choices, values, and desires can take root; where you can grow your capacity for joy, freedom, and autonomy.

What should a new client know about working with you?

I strive to create a collaborative, nonjudgmental space where we can be curious together, even when things feel unclear or difficult to put into words. I believe that feelings, both emotional and physical, are often communicating something important; therapy offers a supportive place to listen.

What is your typical process for working with clients?

I have a special interest in working with people living with chronic illnesses and pain, survivors of complex trauma, and new and expectant parents of all genders. My professional background in the social work field spans ten years, including work with survivors of domestic violence, people experiencing homelessness, people with complex medical needs, LGBTQ+ people, and dual diagnosis. If you are frustrated with behaviors that once protected you but now keep you stuck, I would be honored to accompany you as we explore new ways of being. Please reach out if you would like to connect and see if we might be a good fit to work together.

In-network insurances

Popular visit reasons

Anxiety Disorder

Childhood Trauma

Depression

New Patient Visit

Postpartum Depression

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit

Therapy

Anxiety Disorder

Childhood Trauma

Depression

New Patient Visit

Office location

May Shanahan, LSW, MSW also offers online video visits for patients

Depth Counseling

122 S Michigan Ave, Ste. 1441, Chicago, IL 60603

Get directions

Education and background

Practice names

Depth Counseling

Education and training

Aurora University, Master's in Social Work
Elmhurst University (Bachelor's)

Patient reviews

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Frequently asked questions

How soon can I make an appointment with May Shanahan?

Generally, May Shanahan has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see May Shanahan's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.

Is May Shanahan accepting new patients?

May Shanahan generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see May Shanahan's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.

Does May Shanahan accept my insurance?

Choose your insurance plan to verify if May Shanahan is in-network.

Can I make an appointment with May Shanahan online?

Yes, you can make an appointment online with May Shanahan using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.

What practice does May Shanahan work with?

May Shanahan works with Depth Counseling.

Where is May Shanahan's office located?

May Shanahan has 2 office locations in Chicago, view full addresses on May Shanahan's profile.

What are common reasons for patients to see May Shanahan?

May Shanahan frequently sees patients for Depression, New Patient Visit, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for May Shanahan on their profile.