Mental Health Counseling in Jacksonville, FL
Become the
partner
parent
boss
person
you want to be.
About Ali Korman Shelton
You want solutions and change, not sympathy and psychoanalysis.
Whatever you’re going through right now, you’re here because you’re looking for answers—not questions. I totally get that, and as a straight shooter myself, I can appreciate that point of view.
Therapy and counseling often have a reputation for being all about sharing your feelings with someone who, in turn, asks you about them repeatedly for an hour...and then you leave. While emotions are certainly part of it, therapy with me is mostly about uncovering and working through the issues that are causing those emotions.
The pit in your stomach when you receive an email, the dread you feel when your alarm goes off in the morning, the tension between you and your partner that you could cut with a butter knife…those feelings are trying to tell you something.
Shoving them down and ignoring them won’t solve anything, but by framing them in a context of curiosity and growth, you can move toward your life goals with more certainty and confidence.
Let’s work together to find the right tools and skills, so you won’t need me in the future.
My approach
a marathon, not a sprint.
While I’d love to be able to say “here’s exactly what to do to fix the situation,” it’s usually not that simple. That’s okay, though, because all the work we do is going to be collaborative, so you’ll never have to face a challenge alone. And I’ll make sure you always know that the finish line is ahead, even when you can’t see it.
Your experiences are unique, and I’ll always meet you with understanding, empathy, sincerity, and flexibility in my approach. Whether you’re coming to counseling as an individual or with your partner, I look forward to being part of your journey to a life of balance and contentment.
Together, we’ll work on…
Getting your needs met
Set boundaries and communicate what you need and want without upsetting others.
Embracing your sexual wellbeing
I take a sex-positive approach to therapy because sexuality is a fundamental experience that everyone deserves to learn how to enjoy.
Cultivating self-awareness
Know the signs of unhealthy patterns so you can regain control and be the person you strive to be, personally and professionally.
Navigating conflict
Have more peace in your work and home life by learning how to disagree and communicate without arguing.
Feeling more connected
Be tuned into the needs of your partner and family at home, and your team at work.
Working with me is a comfortable, laid-back experience.
Because I encourage my clients to move at their own pace.
I’ve also been told I’m observant and intuitive, qualities that allow me to help guide you to the root of your problems. Then, we can work together to customize tools and solutions that you can use to transform your life.
I, myself, was a corporate executive for a decade, and before that worked for 20 years in the political sphere—and was, admittedly, a work-oholic. Counseling has helped me immensely in living a more purposeful and open life. I’d never ask you to do anything I haven’t done myself, and I will be real with you when I feel that’s the best approach—which, if you’re direct like me, it usually is.
In our sessions, we’ll explore all of this and more in a casual, non-judgmental environment. No need to put on any pretense. Just come on in, kick your feet up, and we’ll get to the bottom of what’s been bothering you.
My methods include:
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Providing a nonjudgmental atmosphere where you’re in control of the discussion.
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Our actions are not random and can be changed by addressing the root causes of behaviors.
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Learning how your thoughts affect and influence your behavior.
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Helping couples improve their communication, resolve conflicts, and build trust and intimacy.
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Your experiences and struggles are unique, and your solutions should be too.
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Gottman Level 1 & 2 Certiication
Registered Intern in the State of Florida, IMH 22880
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Jacksonville University
Qualified Supervisor, Dr. Susan Craven Williams, PhD
Who you are now doesn’t have to define who you’ll always be.
Give yourself the chance to change the narrative.
Click the link below to schedule an appointment, and I will follow up with a phone call where we will briefly discuss what has led you to reach out. We will also go over my process and approach to working together. I can answer any questions you have, to help you determine whether we’re a good fit.