Shannon Bruce

Rooted in the wide-open landscapes of Montana and inspired by the resilience of the Bitterroot flower, I believe healing often begins by reconnecting with our strength, our story, and our sense of hope. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and EMDRIA-trained EMDR therapist with more than six years of clinical experience, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s most difficult challenges with compassion, authenticity, and evidence-based care.

Originally from Miles City, Montana, my connection to the land and the people of this state has deeply shaped the way I approach therapy. I carry a deep appreciation for the strength, grit, and authenticity of the people and communities here. There is something special about Montana — the quiet strength of its people, the beauty of its rivers and mountains, and the sense of perseverance woven into everyday life. Growing up surrounded by that environment instilled in me the belief that even in difficult seasons, healing and hope remain possible. That perspective continues to guide the work I do with clients every day. 

I earned both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The University of Southern Mississippi and completed EMDR training with The Florida EMDR Educators under Dr. Andrew Dobo. My work combines evidence-based therapeutic approaches with genuine compassion and individualized care, recognizing that every client’s path to healing is unique. I believe therapy should never feel cold or impersonal. Instead, it should be a place where individuals feel safe enough to be honest, understood enough to feel less alone, and supported enough to begin moving forward.

I specialize in working with trauma, PTSD, addiction, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, behavioral challenges, and life transitions. I understand that many people carry burdens that are invisible to others, often feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from themselves and those around them. My goal is to help clients better understand their experiences, build healthy coping skills, process painful memories, and rediscover a sense of balance and confidence in their lives.

My therapeutic approach is rooted in evidence-based practices while remaining deeply personal and individualized. I believe therapy is not one-size-fits-all, and I work collaboratively with each client to meet them where they are. Through EMDR and other research-supported approaches, I strive to help clients move beyond survival mode and toward genuine healing, growth, and emotional freedom. I value creating an environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered throughout their journey.   Above all, I believe healing happens through connection, trust, and the courage to take one step at a time.

At the heart of my work is the belief that people are incredibly resilient. Even after life’s hardest seasons, healing is possible. The Bitterroot, Montana’s state flower, grows and thrives in difficult conditions — a reminder that healing and growth are possible even in life’s most challenging moments. Despite rocky soil and harsh climates, it continues to bloom year after year. I believe people carry that same kind of resilience within themselves. Even after trauma, grief, anxiety, addiction, or overwhelming life experiences, growth is still possible. Therapy is not about erasing the past; it is about learning how to move through it with greater understanding, strength, and self-compassion.

Outside of therapy, I cherish time with my two daughters, family, friends, and my Australian Shepherd, Chandler. After years of homeschooling my daughters and cheering them on through their marching band journey, I understand the importance of connection, encouragement, and having someone who truly believes in you. Those experiences have shaped not only who I am as a parent, but also the compassion and understanding I bring into my work every day.

 

It is truly a privilege to walk alongside clients as they move toward healing, balance, resilience, and a more empowered life.