About 

Shawn


I am a 2017 graduate of John Brown University with a Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy.  Prior to going into private practice, I gained a great deal of experience serving in several roles at a hospital and community mental health agency. I first worked as a crisis interventionist and counselor providing direct support in emergency departments, jails, schools and in-home. I then served as a community-based clinician helping individuals with severe mental illness achieve and maintain wellness and independence.  Lastly, I served as a general therapist helping individuals and couples deal with a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, psychosis, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, ADHD, parenting difficulties, and addictions.


Before pursuing a career in mental health, I served as an Air Force officer managing the security and transportation of nuclear weapons.  This experience in part inspired my desire to become a counselor as my role heavily involved providing personal guidance and support to my troops as they performed a mission requiring utmost psychological and physical reliability in an environment and subculture where depression, anxiety, alcoholism, and marital dysfunction were rampant.   

When I'm not in the office, I love spending time with my wife and kids.  I grew up in rural Mississippi where I spent most of my youth engaged in some outdoor adventure—a passion that has never left me.  I'm a stubborn DIY'er, and enjoy cooking, gardening, and learning about self-sufficiency.  

Lastly and most importantly, I am a follower of Christ.  Despite being a believer from an early age, I didn't truly give my heart to Jesus until my mid 20's when I was faced with devastating trials.  In Him I found healing, hope, and transformation.  


Credentials

National Certified Counselor - National Board of Certified Counselors - 2021Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor - State of Illinois - 2021Licensed Professional Counselor - State of Illinois - 2020MS in Marriage and Family Therapy and Clinical Mental Health Counseling - John Brown University - 2017BA in General Liberal Arts: Social Sciences; Minor in Political Science - Mississippi State University - 2008

Invictus Counseling LLC  '24   |   207 N Main St, Ste 104B, Columbia, IL 62236   |   309-331-4388  |  shawn.forbes.counselor@gmail.com


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