Ingrid Shadow

About Ingrid

Ingrid Shadow, MSW is an LCSW who graduated from Rutgers University in 1999. As a well-versed clinician, Ingrid has 26 years of experience in the field and is licensed in Texas. What makes you enjoy working with seniors?

Since I was a little girl, I remember listening to the stories my grandparents, great aunts and those older than me shared. I always felt fascinated when learning about their experiences, wisdom and the life lessons that came along with their conversations. These positive experiences motivated me to become a therapist.

Why do you think online therapy is effective for seniors? Online therapy is believed to be very effective for older adults as it significantly improves accessibility to mental health care by removing barriers like transportation difficulties, physical limitations, and the need to travel to a therapist's office, allowing them to receive treatment from the comfort of their own homes, which is particularly important for seniors with mobility issues or living in remote areas; this increased access can help them address mental health concerns that they might otherwise avoid due to logistical challenges. How do you approach therapy sessions?

My main goal during the sessions is for my clients to feel that I am respecting their life experiences, make them feel comfortable by building rapport, addressing concerns, using clear communication, and tailoring interventions to their specific needs, often incorporating life review techniques and focusing on values-based goals, while being mindful of potential cognitive changes that may require adjustments to the therapy process. What is your advice to someone who is starting therapy for the first time? My advice for anyone who is starting therapy for the first time is to be open and honest with your therapist, come prepared with any concerns or goals you want to address, actively listen to your therapist's guidance, and don't be afraid to ask questions if something is unclear; remember that therapy is a collaborative process where you should feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and experiences.