Welcome to my private practice.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with approximately 20 years experience working with children and adolescents on a wide array of issues. I have experience working with adolescents in a residential placement facility for children who were displaced from their families due to sexual abuse or other complicated family situations, as well as adults with developmental disabilities and severe mental health disorders. As a result, I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults and provide services virtually for ages 8 and up. Majority of my career, I have worked with children, adolescents, and their families as a school social worker and have extensive knowledge on navigating the school system. I have both professional and personal experience working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum and a special interest in helping families with the unique challenges that they face.
About Me
Dr. Diona Shelton, DSW, LCSW
Diona Shelton received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in 2001 and her Master's in Social Work at Saint Louis University in 2003. She is a recent graduate of Capella University in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Diona has a Type 73 Professional Educator License and has professional certifications both as a child and adolescent trauma professional and a clinical trauma professional through Evergreen Certifications. Diona is licensed by the state of Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and the Missouri Department of Professional Registration. She holds membership with the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Her doctoral research is focused on exploring the best practices that result in improved experiences for young adults with autism as they transition into post-secondary education.
Diona has served as the Doctor of Social Work President of Phi Alpha Honor Society Phi Tau Chapter and is a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS). She serves on the NASW Illinois Chapter Board of Directors as the Southern District Chair, the NASW Illinois Chapter's Co-Chair for the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee, and is appointed to the Social Work Examining and Disciplinary Board with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Diona is the published author of “Little Man” and best-selling co-author of “Sistah Hooded: Stories of Strength and Resilience on the Doctoral Journey”. Diona has practiced as a school social worker in Illinois for over 15 years. She enjoys interacting with children, youth, and young adults and being a part of their growth and development.
Meet Our Team
Heather Anderson, Office Manager
Heather is originally from Connecticut and moved to Virginia in 2005. She has one child with Down Syndrome and one dog with whom she enjoys spending time. Heather has over 30 years of experience in billing and has been assisting mental health practices for the past seven years. She loves to help people out in all aspects of life and looks forward to helping with your billing and scheduling needs.
Why Choose New Beginnings?
It is an honor and truly humbling experience to know that you have chosen me as your therapist. I view therapy as a partnership and work with my clients to set mutually agreeable goals they would like to achieve.
The decision to seek therapy can be an overwhelming one. I am honored that you have chosen me to help guide you through this journey of self-discovery and enlightenment.