What patients are saying
Overall rating
5.00
About Shirley Gonsalves
Focus areas
Anxiety
Hypnotherapy
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Mood Disorders
Therapy
BIPOC Mental Health Issues
Negative Body Image
Clientele seen
Teenagers (13-17)
Individuals
Young adults (18-24)
Couples
Adults (25-64)
Treatment approaches
Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)
Culturally Sensitive
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Dialectical (DBT)
Compassion Focused
EMDR
Identity
Gender
FemaleLanguages spoken
English, Hindi
Getting to know Shirley Gonsalves
Seeking therapy is a courageous step. It takes strength, vulnerability, and a willingness to face parts of us that can feel overwhelming or even painful, especially when sharing them with someone new. I recognize how hard it can be to open up, to build trust with a therapist, and to navigate the emotional weight that can come with asking for support.
That’s why my approach is grounded in compassion, cultural sensitivity, and a deep respect for each person’s unique experience. My goal is to meet you where you are, with empathy, curiosity, and zero judgment.
I hold two master’s degrees-one in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and another in Clinical Psychology from the University of Mumbai. My training has provided me with the necessary skills, knowledge and strong foundation in evidence-based approaches to support clients navigating a wide range of emotional, relational, and mental health concerns.
What should a new client know about working with you?
I use a holistic, collaborative, trauma-informed, and person-centered approach to therapy. I believe therapy works best when we work together to understand not only what you are experiencing today, but also the attachment styles, past experiences, relationships, and thought patterns that may be influencing how you feel and relate to yourself and others.
I work with teens ages 14+, adults, and couples experiencing concerns such as Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, CPTSD and PTSD, Sexual trauma, Relationship and Dating conflicts, Premarital counseling, self-esteem and body image, Inner child work, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Borderline personality disorder, Grief and loss, Self-harm, and other mental health issues. I am also fluent in English, Hindi, and Marathi and offer therapy in all three languages.
What is your typical process for working with clients?
For me, the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of the healing process. I believe that one of the most important aspects of therapy is developing a trusting, genuine, and collaborative relationship between therapist and client. When you feel safe enough to be vulnerable, honest, and fully yourself, therapy can become a space where meaningful healing and growth can take place.
My approach is also psychodynamic, meaning I look beyond the immediate concern to understand you as a whole person. Together, we may explore how childhood experiences, attachment patterns, relationships, and significant life experiences have shaped the ways you think, feel, relate to others, and respond to challenges in the present.
I also draw from a range of therapeutic approaches based on your individual needs and goals, including EMDR, DBT, CBT, ACT, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, Hypnotherapy and Gottman Method for couples work. Rather than believing that one approach works for everyone, I tailor therapy to you and your unique circumstances.
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In-network insurances
Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
UnitedHealthcare
Out-of-pocket fees and assistance
Initial session: $175 for 55 minutes
Ongoing session: $165 for 55 minutes
- Sliding scale: Offers lower out-of-pocket fees on an individual basis, typically based on your ability to pay
- Files your insurance claim: You pay the session fee upfront and the provider files the claim for you, so you can get reimbursed directly without worrying about the paperwork
More information on payments and coverage
I am in-network with BCBS PPO, Aetna PPO, and United Healthcare PPO plans. I can also offer self-pay and sliding scale options for those who don't have insurance or are out of network. Once you setup your appointment, our billing team can confirm if you are in-network and what your estimated cost per session will be.
Office location
Shirley Gonsalves, MA, LPC also offers online video visits for patients
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- The Chicago School, Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- St. Xavier’s College (Bachelor's)
- University of Mumbai, Master's in Clinical Psychology
- Anixter Center (Internship)
NPI number
1972395382
Patient reviews
All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
Overall rating
5.00
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1 review
Most relevant
Less than 6 months agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
How soon can I make an appointment with Shirley Gonsalves?
Generally, Shirley Gonsalves has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Shirley Gonsalves's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Shirley Gonsalves accepting new patients?
Shirley Gonsalves generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Shirley Gonsalves's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Shirley Gonsalves accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Shirley Gonsalves is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Shirley Gonsalves online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Shirley Gonsalves using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Shirley Gonsalves work with?
Shirley Gonsalves works with Serengeti Wellness.
Where is Shirley Gonsalves's office located?
Shirley Gonsalves has 3 office locations, including in Chicago and Spillertown, view full addresses on Shirley Gonsalves's profile.
What are common reasons for patients to see Shirley Gonsalves?
Shirley Gonsalves frequently sees patients for Depression, New Patient Visit, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Shirley Gonsalves on their profile.
What languages does Shirley Gonsalves speak?
Shirley Gonsalves speaks English, Hindi, and Marathi.