Shala Cole
Shala Cole, Psy.D, CGP, International Center Liaison
- California Licensed Psychologist PSY 31816
- Psy.D., Clinical Psychology, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Chicago
- M.A., Forensic Psychology, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Chicago
- B.S., Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing
Pronouns: She/Her
Specializes in:
- Depression/ anxiety
- Identity development
- Interpersonal conflict/issues
- First-generation college student concerns
- Group therapy
Fun Facts:
I loved llamas before they were cool.
Dr. Cole has worked in a variety of settings with culturally and socioeconomically diverse individuals. She obtained her master's degree in forensic psychology and completed her master's internship at a forensic hospital working with those presenting with severe mental illness. During her pre-doctoral training, she worked at a private practice performing neuropsychological assessments, in a substance abuse treatment facility, and in college counseling centers. Dr. Cole found her love for working with college students, which has deepened since she went on to complete her internship and post-doctoral residency at Florida State University Counseling Center.
Dr. Cole practices from a psychodynamic approach, integrating other models as needed to fit the particular needs of the student. Dr. Cole values learning about students' defining experiences, prominent relationships throughout the lifespan, and sociocultural influences to help students gain insight into conflicts, anxieties, or feelings of being stuck. She believes in providing a therapeutic relationship where the student feels unconditionally supported, understood, and free of inhibition. This helps foster an environment for change to occur and move students toward their goals. Dr. Cole enjoys working with a variety of presenting concerns including, but not limited to, anxiety/depressive symptoms, identity concerns, family of origin issues, and relationship
issues. She also particularly enjoys working with first generation college students and BIPOC students. In addition to individual therapy, she is passionate about providing group therapy. Dr. Cole is a certified group psychotherapist (CGP). She currently serves on APA Division 49, Group Psychology and Group Psychotherapy, as membership chair and a member of the ECP Task Force. She has also completed specialty training in Behavioral Health Consultation and psychological assessment.
Dr. Cole is originally from the Midwest, but is enjoying her time away from the snow. In her free time, she enjoys teaching her dog Frodo tricks, biking, movies and documentaries, traveling, exploring new cuisines, and soaking up the sun.
