Shayna Hillenberg, M.S.W, L.M.S.W. is a licensed clinical social worker who has extensive experience and training working with early childhood, school-aged children, teens, and families. Her areas of specialty include anxiety, self-esteem issues, ADHD, depression, self-harm, and aggression though neurodiversity affirming and child-center informed play therapy. Shayna utilizes a wide variety of approaches including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), art and play therapy, executive functioning coaching strategies, mindfulness strategies, strengths-based and client-centered therapy.

Shayna has experience providing mental health therapy in clinical settings including private practice, serving at-risk youth as a shelter care worker and case manager, working in early childhood development programs, and the foster care system.

Shayna partners with her certified therapy dog, Blu, to integrate animal-assisted interventions into therapeutic practice. Together, they support clients by fostering a safe, calming, and engaging environment that enhances emotional regulation, builds trust, and encourages meaningful participation in the therapeutic process. Blu’s certified training allows him to provide comfort and grounding in a variety of clinical and community settings, while Shayna’s professional expertise ensures that each interaction aligns with treatment goals. Their collaborative approach reflects a commitment to promoting well-being, resilience, and healing through the human–animal bond.

Shayna received her bachelor’s degree in Family Studies and Social Work form Western Michigan University. She then received her Master of Social Work from Madonna University with a focus on clinical work with children.

In her free time, Shayna enjoys spending time outside with her friends and family, traveling, and working with her puppy Blu who is a certified therapy dog.