Profile image of Shemika  Whiteside
Vetted

Shemika Whiteside(She/Her/Hers)

(She/Her/Hers)
Master of Science in Social Work, MSSW
KentuckyIndiana
Depression-Postpartum depression-Pregnancy, perinatal, postpartum mental health-Transition to new parenthood-Mood disorders-Women's issues-
AboutSpecialtiesLocationsInsurance & Fees

Professional statement

Shemika Whiteside, LCCSW received a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Louisville and a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies with a minor in Black Studies from the University of Illinois-Springfield. Mrs. Whiteside has worked in various mental health settings maintaining her unwavering focus on mothers and small children. As a perinatal psychotherapist, Mrs. Whiteside works with mothers and/or families who are struggling with perinatal mental illness during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Mrs. Whiteside is currently a social work doctoral student at The University of Louisville researching the impact of perinatal mood disorders, as evidence indicates that depression and other mood disorders in parents can have a harmful impact on children, including cognitive difficulties, insecure attachment, and behavioral problems.


Message to clients

Feeling as though you haven't processed a difficult time? Are you seeking support without feeling as though you need to censor yourself? Let's work together to help you find the peace you desire. I will not ask you to do anything I wouldn’t do. I’m laid-back and I do not give up easily on those I serve. I am a natural optimist and assess all positives. Knowing what happened to you is important and necessary, but I don’t believe there’s something wrong with you. If you can't believe this for yourself yet, I'll believe it for you until you do.

I feel that my cultural humility, experience with clients of varying socio-demographic backgrounds, and passion for advocacy are a rare find. Though I specialize in perinatal behavioral health, my diverse experience has afforded me the opportunity to become familiar with various populations.

I welcome clients from all walks of life. I want to ensure that you are heard and validated during our sessions. You may have received therapy in the past and your coping skills seem to have stopped working. I'm here to help you get back on track.


Work and Education

Years of Experience: 11 years

University of Louisville-Peace Hospital, Lead Assessment Clinician

University of Louisville, MSSW, 2013

Licensure

Kentucky: 258611 - Indiana: 34010948A

Languages

English

Specialties

Depression - Providing support and promoting healing of hopelessness, low motivation and energy, sadness, irritability, sleep disturbance, and loss of interest and pleasure in life

Postpartum depression - Coping with persistent feelings of sadness, exhaustion, and/or being overwhelmed after the birth of a child; developing strategies for more positive thought patterns and behaviors.

Pregnancy, perinatal, postpartum mental health - Addressing issues specific to women and families during the pregnancy and postpartum period, including postpartum depression and anxiety

Transition to new parenthood - Working with parents as they adjust to new parenthood

Mood disorders - Clinical depression, persistent depression, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders that cause disturbances in the client's mood, causing mood swings, restless sleep, and/or elevated mood

Women's issues - Therapy tailored to common concerns among women; providing a safe and understanding space to address life challenges, stressors, and questions around identity as a woman




Clientele

  • Adults (24+)
  • Parents
  • Seniors (65+)
  • Young adults (18-24)
  • Loveland Therapy Fund Clients

Locations & Hours


Insurance

  • Aetna (in-network in KY, IN)
  • Cigna (in-network in KY, IN)
  • United Healthcare (in-network in KY, IN)

Out-of-pocket fees

  • Individual sessions:$125 (60min)
  • Sliding scale:$50 - $125