"Don't Let Your Past Dictate Your Future"

"I am not afraid of the storm for I am learning to sail my ship"

- Louisa May Alcott - 

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"You're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think" 

- Christopher Robin - 

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"We do not have to become heroes overnight. Just a step at a time, meeting each thing that comes up, seeing it is not as dreadful as it appeared, discovering we have the strength to stare it down"

- Eleanor Roosevelt -  

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Welcome!

Are leftover traumas from your past holding you back from living fully? Do you wish you could stop trying to numb out from your negative thoughts, depression, anxiety or addiction? Through therapy, you can learn how to embrace your vulnerabilities and step into the life you want to be living. I am a compassionate and supportive clinical social worker who connects with you to create a safe space to talk about what’s happened to you. Together we’ll begin to understand the impact of trauma and shame while practicing techniques you can use to live a healthier and happier life.


You either walk inside your story and own it or you stand outside your story and hustle for your worthiness.


With over 25 years of experience, I customize your therapy to meet your individual needs using a variety of techniques including: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems Theory (IFS) and expressive modalities.

Clients have told me that they leave their first session with a renewed sense of hope. I believe people can overcome their depression and anxiety because I have seen clients do so. To make the first step, simply give me a call or send me an e-mail.

Are you having a difficult time handling the struggles in your life? 

Could you use an expert opinion on what you’re going through, or a non-judgemental ear just to listen? 

Do you think you could benefit the most from individualized attention? 

Are you hesitant to talk to others about your problems? 

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, then individual therapy could be the solution you’ve been seeking. Individual therapy differs from group or alternative therapy methods in the way that you are the sole focus of a single therapist who helps you develop and achieve your goals for therapy. 

If you’ve been feeling hopeless or lost lately, or struggling with a problem in your life that feels unsurmountable, individual therapy could help you improve your everyday life. 

Individual therapy helps you win against whatever you’re battling by putting a real expert in your corner by means of a professional therapist.

Here are some places to get started

Getting Started

Getting Started

About Ava Barron-Shasho

My private practice in Pikesville, Maryland, is where I provide individual, family and group therapy. I have 20 years of clinical experience helping clients reduce their anxiety and come to a greater understanding with their emotional issues such as addiction, shame and childhood trauma. I am fluent in American Sign Language and certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). To help my clients move forward, I use a variety of expressive techniques and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). In addition to my clinical practice, I teach Human Development at CCBC, as it holds a special place in my heart.


Let's connect online and get started!