About me

Hi, I’m Shelly! I’m a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a passion for helping children and teens build confidence, manage emotions, and reach their full potential. For over 20 years, I’ve supported young people and their families through challenges such as anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, and life transitions—helping them find healthier ways to cope and connect.

After earning my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Michigan State University, I moved to Chicago to attend the Illinois School of Professional Psychology, where I earned my master’s degree in 1999 and my doctorate in 2004. From the beginning, my work has focused on understanding the emotional world of children and teens and helping families strengthen communication and resilience.

I believe every child has the inner strength to grow and thrive. My approach is warm, collaborative, and rooted in compassion and evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I work closely with both children and parents to uncover what’s behind the emotional or behavioral struggles and to develop tools that foster understanding, balance, and confidence at home and at school.

My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where your child feels heard and understood—and where you, as a parent, feel guided and empowered. Reaching out for therapy is a courageous step, and I’m honored to walk alongside your family on this journey toward healing and growth.

Specialties

  • Stress, Anxiety
  • Relationships
  • Self esteem, Motivation
  • Depression
  • Coping with life changes
Also experienced in:
Attachment issues , Body image , Communication problems , Control issues , Divorce and separation , Guilt and shame , Impulsivity , Isolation / loneliness , Life purpose , Men's issues , Mood disorders , Read more...

Clinical approaches:
Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy

Years of Experience: 21

Services offered


  • Messaging

  • Live Chat

  • Phone

  • Video

Licensing

IL Psychologist 071007174

Reviews

These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Shelly Scamardo. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with Teen Counseling might be different.

Written on Mar 18, 2026 after therapy with Shelly for 2 weeks

I really like the convenience of texting and messaging and my daughter prefers it.

Written on Mar 07, 2026 after therapy with Shelly for 1 month on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, and compassion fatigue

Shelly Scamardo is a kind, sensitive therapist. I can feel that she is fully engaged during a session and is listening with focus. And she is able to convey this over a "zoom" type call. It is apparent that her work is important to her, and that she is skilled at gaining an understanding of her client. I feel safe and accepted by Shelly, and am able to share without fear of judgment. I highly recommend her as a therapist.

Written on Dec 17, 2025 after therapy with Shelly for 1 month on issues concerning depression, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy-related issues, anger management, and coping with life changes

Shelly is an amazing listener who really takes what you have to say about how you are feeling into consideration in a way that gives you a sense of security while allowing you to guide the sessions yet at the same time offering clarity and subtle direction when needed. Shelly is a very adaptive and gifted therapist. You will leave each appointment with the sense that you are getting somewhere and making progress. Thank you

Work with me!