Sheena Bates, MSW, LSAWIC
“You don’t have to be positive all the time. It’s perfectly okay to feel sad, angry, annoyed, frustrated, scared, or anxious. Having feelings doesn’t make you a “negative person”; It makes you human.”
Personal Statement:
My name is Sheena Bates. Living in the Walla Walla valley for more than 20 years, I have found this community to become my home. Reducing the stigma of mental health and empowering individuals and families is a passion. My goal is to ensure we work together on identifying, developing, and reaching goals. Welcome to taking one of many steps moving forward.
My Education, Training, and Experience:
I attended Walla Walla Community College and went on to complete my Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science from Bellevue University. I continued my education with Bellevue University and completed my Master of Professional Studies degree. Still feeling a bit unfulfilled, I decided to return to school and earn my Master of Social Work (MSW) with Walla Walla University in 2025.
I am Gottman Level 1 certified for couples counseling and intend to further my training as time allows. I am currently working towards gaining Eagala certification and PATH Intl. credentials for equine-assisted services and psychotherapy.
I have an active Social Worker Associate Independent Clinical License (SC70017365).
My Treatment Modality and Therapeutic Orientation:
The MSW program at WWU has clinical emphasis rooted in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). Throughout the program we focused on individual therapy, groups therapy, and couples and families’ therapy. As elective courses I focused on gaining additional experience in crisis intervention and CBT application.
I take a person-centered approach to therapy and focus on individual, or family, needs and goals. Evidence-based practices, such as CBT and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, guide my framework while also integrating trauma-informed care. It is important to ensure a safe environment where you are comfortable.
“Breathe darling. This is just a chapter. It’s not your whole story” (S.C. Lourie)