SherylShope – True Heart Therapy

Hi, it's nice to meet you!

I'm Sheryl Shope, and I'm glad you're here.

What is a fun fact about myself?

I’ve played soccer my whole life and still love being on the field. I played in college and went on to compete at the semi-professional level in the WPSL.

What can you expect as my client?

I believe in the healing power of being in relationship with others, and I know that being vulnerable takes courage. You can expect someone who is ready to truly get to know you and meet you where you are, without judgment. My role is to walk alongside you as you make sense of your struggles, your relationships, and the meaning in your life.

Together, we’ll deepen your ability to connect with yourself and others, reflect on your values, explore your relational patterns, and help you live in alignment with what truly matters. I bring humor, curiosity, and compassion to build a genuine connection where you feel comfortable, safe, and seen. I draw from Emotionally Focused Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with reflection on Intergenerational impact.

Pronouns: She/Her

Who am I outside of therapy?

Outside of therapy, I can usually be found adventuring with my husband and our two children, hiking, exploring museums, or tracking down good food. I love reading mysteries and science fiction/fantasy (especially anything with a dragon in it!), watching Survivor, playing soccer/futsal, and I get a lot of joy from being creative with crafts and playing music. My friendships are also an important part of my life and know that nurturing those relationships has reinforced my view that every relationship, whether with family, friends, or community, plays a meaningful role in our wellbeing.

How did I become a therapist?

I’ve wanted to be a therapist since high school (though before that I dreamed of being a marine biologist!). After earning my BA in Psychology, I was fortunate to explore several different areas of the therapeutic world, from providing therapeutic mentorship in community mental health, to offering recreational therapy in an Alzheimer’s care facility, to supporting families navigating developmental disability diagnoses as a behavioral therapist.

Through each of these experiences, my passion for being in connection with others only grew stronger. I learned the power of witnessing people in their suffering, their joy, and all the moments in between. Marriage and Family Therapy felt like the most natural fit for me because it aligns with how I see humans: as deeply relational beings who heal and thrive through connection.

I am currently earning my Master’s degree in Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy from Lewis & Clark Graduate School of Counseling and Education. I have earned certification in Activity Coordination when supporting individuals with Alzheimer’s and their families, and in the behavioral therapy space, I became a Board Certified assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA). I received my Bachelor’s in Psychology from Wittenberg University.

Prior to starting my Masters degree I was a behavioral therapist for 8 years. In this role, I supported families and their children as they navigated developmental disability diagnosis while living a values based life. I have experience in providing recreational therapy to individuals with Alzheimer’s and their family members while holding space for grief and uncertainty. I’ve also worked as a teacher in an emotional growth classroom, providing support to adolescents in individual and group settings. I integrate all of my therapeutic experiences to bring a broad understanding of humans and the relationships that shape their lives.

I delight in working with individuals, couples, and families who are longing for deeper connection and tired of feeling stuck. My ideal clients are those who value relationships, want to grow in self-understanding, and are open to exploring new ways of relating. Whether you’re navigating grief, parenting, relationship transitions, or simply feeling disconnected and unsure how to move forward, I’m here to walk alongside you with honesty, curiosity, and compassion as you create meaningful change.