Shelly began Independent College Counseling as a second profession after discovering her passion for helping students as they transition from high school to college. When working with high school students she noticed that the process of identifying their interests in careers and the options for education can be overwhelming. Shelly’s goal is to reduce stress and help students find their confidence by guiding them during this time of transition

Shelly began her career in education with the Regional Office of Education in Macomb, Illinois as a program manager developing and implementing multiple educational programs, including programs for children with special needs and their families. After 15 years she created her own business providing educational and support services to children and their families.

In addition to providing individualized therapeutic support services for clients, Shelly also served as an adjunct faculty member for Western Illinois University department of Counselor education as an instructor for the Assessment Techniques in Counseling course. She also served as a selection committee member for applicants to the graduate program.

While serving as an adjunct instructor Shelly realized the challenges that these graduate students had faced when trying to navigate the post-secondary educational systems. With the rapidly escalating cost of post secondary education the decision of an institution has never been more complex. Shelly uses a thoughtful, organized and individualized approach to assist students and their families to find the right fit academically, socially, and financially.

One of Shelly’s favorite activities, coaching volleyball, also steered her to the path of becoming a college counselor. The knowledge Shelly gained during the four years she spent as an assistant coach at the collegiate level and the years of coaching 18U National level club teams is invaluable when guiding students.

Shelly holds a BS degree in Family and Consumer Sciences and a Masters Degree in counselor Education.

When not busy working with clients, Shelly enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, reading, cooking and yoga. Shelly and her husband Mark have two children, Rachel and Nicholas, and one cat named Nala.