Life has a way of “lifing,” and sometimes the weight of it all can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, chronic stress, relationship challenges, life transitions, chronic health conditions, or the emotional impact of an STI diagnosis such as Herpes, HPV, or HIV, you deserve a therapeutic space where you feel seen, supported, and free from judgment. At Therapy is Golden, we believe healing happens through connection, compassion, and authenticity. Together, we’ll work to harmonize your emotions, visualize your potential, realize your goals, and actualize the most authentic version of yourself.
Hi, I’m Wendi Shepherd, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, MBA, and Founder/CEO of Therapy is Golden. With more than 15 years of experience in mental health, I provide a holistic and culturally responsive approach to therapy that combines clinical expertise with practical, solution-focused strategies. In addition to my clinical work, I serve as a part-time lecturer and social work practicum liaison, experiences that continue to deepen my commitment to the field of social work, education, mentorship, and empowering others through growth and self-discovery.
I strive to create a therapeutic environment grounded in empathy, grace, accountability, and humor when appropriate—because healing does not have to happen in isolation or shame. My approach supports clients in building insight, strengthening coping skills, improving communication, and developing sustainable tools for navigating everyday life challenges.
I work with individuals from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences, including marginalized and underserved communities navigating systemic stress, stigma, chronic illness, and barriers to accessing quality mental health care.
Therapeutic Services
Therapy is Golden is committed to creating an inclusive space for those who have often felt unheard, overlooked, or misunderstood. Our goal is to support you in building emotional wellness, resilience, self-awareness, and a healthier, more fulfilling life—on your terms.
Individual Therapy (Adults 18+)
Our individual therapy sessions are tailored to your unique needs and goals. We use evidence-based practices to help you overcome challenges so you can improve your mental well-being and ACTUALIZE your authentic self.
Areas of Focus/Specialty:
- Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Trauma
- Grief
- Intimacy + Navigating STI Diagnosis (Herpes, HPV, HIV)
- Work + Career Stress and/or Changes
- Chronic Stress
- Life Transitions
- Self Esteem
- Relationships
**Most Insurance Accepted**
Couples Counseling (Monogamous and Non-Monogamous)
Our couples therapy sessions provide a supportive environment to help you and your partner(s) work through conflict, improve communication, and strengthen the connection within the relationship.
Approaches/Techniques:
- Prepare + Enrich Facilitator - this is not couples therapy, it is an assessment and counseling program used to help couples identify their strengths and opportunities for growth while building skills for a healthier relationship. **Pricing varies - ask about packages**
- Gottman Level One Trained Therapist - research-based approach to help strengthen communication, add depth to relationship, and manage conflict more effectively
- Imago Relationship Trained Therapist - compassionate relationship approach that supports couples (and individuals) with reinvigorating relationships by shifting conflict to connection.
- Conflict Resolution/Mediation - trained in Basic Mediation by NY Peace Institute and as a divorce mediator in the state of New Jersey by New Jersey Association of Professional Mediators
WE DO NOT PROVIDE EMERGENCY/CRISIS SERVICES.
If you are experiencing an emergency and/or crisis, please contact 911 or go to the closest hospital.
Call/text 988 or visit lifeline.org to reach a 24-hour suicide and mental health crisis helpline.
Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-572-SAFE (7233) for anonymous, confidential help for domestic and intimate partner violence.