About Annie Shirrell

The therapeutic relationship can sometimes feel unbalanced, with you sharing your innermost thoughts and experiences while knowing very little about me. This dynamic is intentional- the focus is on you, not me! However, I understand the value of knowing a bit about the person accompanying you on your therapeutic journey. So, here's a brief glimpse into who I am.

I am a transplant to California from my home state of Kansas via brief stints in various other states and countries. Psychotherapy is my second career. I previously worked as a Licensed Customs Broker. I have experienced therapy both as an individual client incorporating healing from my sexual trauma and as a participant in couples counseling (because relationships can be challenging!). I firmly believe that there is always more to learn and discover, which is why you'll often find me with my nose buried in a book or exploring new places with my 13 year-old pup Finn.

Education

  • B.A. International Business - Stephens College, Missouri.

  • M.A. Counseling Psychology - Santa Clara University, California

Professional Training

  • Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) Level I & II

  • Sex Therapy-Modern Sex Therapy Institute and California Institute of Intregral Studies (CIIS)

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

  • Somatic Experiencing Level I- Somatic Experience International 

  • Gottman Method Level I, II and Trauma/Infidelity- Gottman Institute

  • Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy- Sue Johnson Hold Me Tight Program

  • California Sexual Assault Domestic Violence 65-hour Training- YWCA Silicon Valley