Meet Dr. Cynthia Shaw, Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Owner of Authentically Living Psychological Services, PLLC

Dr. Cynthia Shaw is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the founder of Authentically Living Psychological Services, PLLC. With years of experience in mental health, Dr. Shaw is dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s complexities through existential and trauma-informed therapy. She is also an adjunct professor at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, where she contributes to the field through teaching and mentorship.

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Diverse Clinical Experience and Specialized Training

Before launching her own practice, Dr. Shaw completed her PostDoctoral Fellowship at Resilience Psychological Services in Chicago, IL, and her PreDoctoral Internship in Philadelphia, PA at The Behavioral Wellness Center at Girard, focusing on the forensic unit and treating individuals with psychosis. Throughout her career, she has worked with numerous organizations, including Streamwood Behavioral Healthcare Services, Staten Island University Hospital, and Sankofa Psychological Services, providing care in a range of settings, from hospitals to schools and assisted living facilities.

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Dr. Shaw's training as a generalist allows her to work with a wide variety of clinical presentations. She has extensive experience helping individuals who are struggling with existential anxiety, identity formation, and relational challenges rooted in low self-esteem or feelings of disconnect. Dr. Shaw is also certified in grief counseling, trauma, psychosis, and judicial issues, adding depth to her therapeutic capabilities. Her dissertation focused on female sex offenders and the impact of community notification laws, further illustrating her expertise in complex legal and psychological issues.

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Therapeutic Approach: Existential, Relational, and Trauma-Informed Care

Dr. Shaw practices from an Existential and Philosophical perspective, blending Experiential and Relational Processing with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, and trauma-informed care. Her approach is aimed at increasing mental flexibility, adaptive coping skills, and enhancing interpersonal relationships. Dr. Shaw values authenticity, transparency, and collaboration in therapy, ensuring that clients feel seen, understood, and supported in their journey toward self-awareness and self-discovery.

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Her direct, non-structured, and person-centered approach is both strength-based and culturally sensitive, making space for individuals to explore their emotions and experiences without judgment. Dr. Shaw believes that the therapeutic relationship itself is a powerful tool for exploration and change, and she fosters a nonjudgmental and empathic spacethat encourages growth and healing.

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Specializing in Identity, Purpose, and Relational Issues

Dr. Shaw is particularly skilled in working with individuals who feel stuck, overwhelmed by existential dread, or unsure of their purpose. She also enjoys helping those grappling with identity issues and relational difficulties due to low self-esteem or a sense of disconnection. Whether you’re facing a major life transition, struggling with grief, or navigating complex relational dynamics, Dr. Shaw’s warm, direct, and open presence provides the support needed to find clarity and meaning.

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A Personal Approach to Healing

Dr. Shaw’s therapeutic philosophy centers on the idea that psychotherapy provides a space to confront suffering, gain insight, and discover one’s purpose. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, personal responsibility, and authenticity, believing that everyone has the capacity to create a meaningful, fulfilling life. Her clients describe her as considerate, relatable, and highly motivated—qualities that make her an effective and compassionate therapist.

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Contact Dr. Cynthia Shaw Today

If you are seeking a therapist who is skilled in existential therapy, trauma-informed care, and relational processing, Dr. Cynthia Shaw is currently accepting new clients. Contact Authentically Living Psychological Services, PLLC to schedule a consultation and begin your journey toward healing and self-discovery.

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