Shannon D Mimbs blog

Speaking to a Modern World Conference September 2025

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 00:25:34 GMT

Charlotte, North Carolina 2025

I'm grateful for the invitation to share on "Speaking to Psychotherapy as Soul-Making" in this year's ORT conference in Charlotte, NC. Would love to see you there!

Voyage ATL Magazine Interview

Sat, 13 Apr 2024 05:28:01 GMT

Interview

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Shannon Mimbs.

Hi Shannon, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.

Though not en vogue in some circles, admittedly, our narratives oftentimes consist of contrasts and polarities. In many ways, this has characterized my story to this point in my life. Much of what I am passionate about facilitating and sharing with others is due to the contrasting experiences I had while growing up in South Georgia.

Over the years, through various influential factors and relationships, I learned more and more the importance of being mindful of our choices, intentional concerning healthy habits, and the transformative power of love (the essence of which is uncontrolling). The context of the interconnectedness of everything, and the ongoing processes both within and around us, have become a vital part of my vocational, academic and day-to-day explorations. What does this mean practically? It underscores that cultivating and nurturing healthier relationships, to me, is at the heart of contentment, purpose, and living wisely.

While I could list various factors, actors, and forces at play along the journey thus far, I’m grateful for the shaping role my family has in my life. When asked about my favorite “super-hero,” it isn’t Marvel or DC that comes to mind. I see the faces of so many loved ones that have traversed hard times while continuing to build the best version of themselves possible, moment-to-moment. As for my current field, many years ago, I was afforded the opportunity to serve within a counseling agency that connected me with persons from all walks of life. My heart had found its home. This lit a fire within me to come alongside persons and families to journey towards wholeness or well-being (as defined by their values). Also, I sought to understand better the shaping influences (and interplay) of culture, philosophy, psychology, neuroscience, religions, and various sectors of meaning-making in our communities. This led to the completion of two graduate degrees and my current dissertation, in which I am exploring an “open and relational” view of psychotherapy (from a transdisciplinary approach).

Beginning my own practice has been an intensifying passion – a dream – and now a reality. I am beyond words grateful to have the privilege of doing that which I love. My office is located in East Cobb (Marietta), and my clients primarily span the Atlanta Metropolitan area. I’m also able to reach persons via telehealth, so the approach is flexible and customized to my clients’ needs. It’s also a joy to work near colleagues in the field who also run private practices from our shared space (East Cobb Counseling) in Providence Park. Some exciting things are ahead, so definitely stay tuned for coming updates this year as to new developments and partnerships for our community.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

I wouldn’t say it’s been a “smooth road,” but a voyage of gratitude. Gratitude, for me, is not only something that we may feel on occasion, but it’s a practice. Like many others, I have faced my share of loss, tragedies, rejection, betrayal, and the like. We live in a world that is beautiful, awe-inspiring, and wonderful while at the same time, full of deep-seated struggles, storms, violence, and injustices. This is one of the reasons I hold to the mindset of looking for teachable moments, leaning upon an “inner circle” of family and friends who truly care, and practicing mindfulness concerning what truly matters.

Clients will oftentimes hear me reference “1440”; that there are 1440 minutes in a day. The limitation of 1440 doesn’t have to be a discouraging reality. It can help us infuse significance and value into the moments we do have, aiming to promote overall well-being (for self, others and the World). Big picture: I want to invest my time, energy, and resources into what matters the most, no matter what comes our way. In the words of Richard Rohr, “How you get there determines where you arrive.”

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Shannon D Mimbs LLC?

I chose to start my practice in what’s sometimes called an “independent group practice model” or “sublease model.” This means a few other therapists are in the same building (East Cobb Counseling), but we each own and operate private practices. This offers a sense of community while affording individuality to be fully in charge of your business. It also gives room both for a personal “brand” but shared space and “branding” that’s bigger than us individually.

As for my personal brand, I resonate with the quote by Jay Danzie that says, “Your smile is your logo, your personality is your business card, how you leave others feeling after an experience with you becomes your trademark.” It captures well my commitment to reaching people, building community and fostering well-being in this area. This is one of the reasons why I believe that customizing services to the needs of a community is essential. There are many exciting developments and ventures ahead that are percolating. So, there’s more to be revealed soon concerning branding that will flow from my story and vision as it unfolds. For now, my focus continues to be cultivating solid relationships in our community and capturing the ethos of metro Atlanta.

I have an transdisciplinary academic background in psychology, philosophy, theology, and science. So, I draw from various modalities and frameworks to customize client services. From working professionals facing the daily grind of pressure to perform, teenagers struggling with questions of identity and belonging, and families or couples seeking to strengthen their connectedness in practical ways, I offer an integrative, relational, open-minded approach to the therapeutic journey.

What’s next?

That’s a great question, as I believe the future is open to our choices and creativity. I’m excited to work towards completing my doctoral dissertation this year. It has been a joyous venture thus far under the supervision of Dr. Thomas Jay Oord. Once completed, I look forward to more time to write (a way that I process), travel and speak, which are all passions of mine.

Most recently, I have been approached by one of the fastest-growing fitness clubs in the country, brainstorming ways to partner in our community to facilitate and promote overall health and wellness. Having worked as a personal trainer through college, and as someone you may see at the gym each day around 5 a.m., health and fitness are an integral part of my life. It helps me calibrate the day.

Additionally, I’ve been in conversation with a graduate school in formulating a certification program for psychotherapists. So, there are various plans underway to reach the community with resources about which I’m hopeful and excited (e.g. trainings, app-development, virtual groups, etc.). My hope of incredible things extends to you as well. As you’re reading this, know that your choices count. No matter the obstacles, and our past notwithstanding, you can work towards building the future that you deeply desire.

Contact Info:

Website: https://www.shannondmimbs.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannondmimbs/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shannondmimbs/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-mimbs-macmhc-mdiv-lpc-ncc-cams-526093279/
Other: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/shannon-davy-mimbs-marietta-ga/739618

Shoutout Atlanta Interview

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 14:39:54 GMT

Interview

https://shoutoutatlanta.com/meet-shannon-mimbs-licensed-private-practice-psychotherapist/

"Make the World Small"

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 20:47:16 GMT

When facing anxiety, perspective matters.

3 Things to Consider When Feeling Like a Failure

Sun, 02 Jul 2023 02:06:51 GMT

3 Things to Consider When Feeling Disappointed, Disoriented or Like a Failure

Your Worth

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 05:21:52 GMT

Intrinsic Worth

When Accepting Love is Difficult

Sat, 10 Jun 2023 21:45:48 GMT

When we feel "unlovable"

An interesting quote popped up on my phone earlier from a motivation app:

" One of the most peaceful moments you'll ever have, Shannon,

is when you realize that you aren't holding on to anyone.

Everyone around you is there because they've chosen to be ."

Now, there are various ways to interpret this, and we could offer several qualified responses. However, I was reminded that:

Oftentimes, we hear the word “ acceptance ” and our focus gravitates towards things that are painful or dire. Yet, another difficulty that some experience is accepting good things in their lives. Take “ love ,” for example.

For various reasons, this may be an area of struggle. This is especially true if we’ve been wounded, are used to operating from a posture of defensiveness or guardedness, or are overly critical of ourselves. There are moments, indeed, when we can be our harshest critic; to the point where we may feel “unlovable.”

Love, however, is uncontrolling, present and universal in scope (for all persons); both guiding and empowering the journey towards wholeness. It’s the “end” and the “means.” It radiates, permeates and transforms. And love is relational , with a dancelike reciprocity… an ebb and flow, that (in my opinion) brings true contentment and deep down satiates our longings.

A little grace, mercy or forgiveness may go a long way in the healing process. Not just for others but for yourself too . We each have areas of our lives in which we have missed it (maybe “hugely” or “by just a bit”… or anywhere in between).

Take a moment to consider those who choose to be in your life and genuinely care about your well-being. Whether by a quick text, phone call or grabbing a meal together, spend some time with them to treasure the gift that they are.

They may see the beauty in you that, for whatever reason, may be difficult to see for yourself.

Moments of Connection

Sat, 20 May 2023 00:07:57 GMT

When thinking of “ self-care ,” it can seem an optional indulgence, or an excuse for those being neglectful of others or using the term as a ticket to get out of responsibilities in parenting, partnerships or giving 100% at work. Yet, strategically carving out space in your daily and weekly schedule will block off time to breathe, reflect and recharge. It’s necessary space for healthier rhythms conducive to creativity and renewal .

But what about the “daily grind” or “hustle” that’s the key ingredient to success? If I could just get up earlier or stay awake later, I could finally keep up (or catch up) with what’s GOT to be done.

Working Harder = More Success .

Not necessarily.

What if productivity, with all the to-do’s in our schedule, has less to do with “more” and more to do with rest. Of course, a “good night’s rest” is a given. Sleep is an integral component to overall health and wellness. But it could be that delegation, simplification and designated times for play and wonder are missing pieces to the puzzle of zest and vitality.

Things for individuals, couples, families and organizations to consider:

1) Take time to connect

Beyond the quick text, post or family sit-downs, be sure to create space for the simple things: a homemade meal, a reading nook for the kiddos, sitting down on the porch swing, or some screen-free time.

2) Invest in one another

Beyond "this for that" ( quid-pro-quo ) bargaining, remember that at the heart of connection is affective (emotional) consideration. How do our words, attitude and actions affect others? Your needs and those of your family (or business, which is likely somehow connected to people) do not center merely on what's most "effective" in the moment (e.g., "If it gets the job done." or "If they'll just behave," etc.). This may be the case at times. But, overall, the driving power of our connectivity, put simply, has to do with loving responsiveness. A smile, kind words, strategic resources to meet a need, an embrace of a loved one or simply your presence. Let those around you sense their (intrinsic) value in how you relate to them - how you invest your time, energy and resources in their well-being. As I tell my kiddos, “My love for you has everything to do with who you are (becoming), not just in what you do."

3). Think small

Beyond the platforms of performance that may come your way, it’s faithfulness and consistency in everyday choices to relate well (to self, others and our world) that help us remain mindful of what's most important. It anchors us. I’m all about building, exploring and dreaming BIG. Yet, we might miss the joy and beauty of the journey if we let moments of connection slip on by. I’ve never witnessed someone at the end of their life tearfully exclaiming, “If only I’d had more letters behind my name or more cars in the garage or more accolades.” The good news is that we don't have to wait until the end to begin seeing clearly the treasures around us, oftentimes hidden in plain sight.

Here's the kicker, though. The demands or wants of others will always do just that – demand or want from you. And given the interconnectivity of everything around us, as well as the accessibility of persons by "notifications" from all sides, we can find ourselves amidst dizzying busy-ness with little room to breathe, ponder, reflect, or recalibrate.

You don’t have to please everyone. You don’t have to do everything. You don’t have to miss moments of meaningful, substantial, significant connection .

The Rhythm of Relationships

Thu, 11 May 2023 09:18:00 GMT

Calendars, Alarms, Reminders, Caffeine, Work, Bills... How would it look? What would they say? Did I forget something? [Part 2]

“I’ve got this.”

“If it is to be then it’s up to ME!”

“I can do it all by myself ”

Have you ever felt guilty when asking for help? I'm not referencing a handout but those times when a hand up would be nice. Ours is a culture that in many ways prizes self-reliance and climbing the ladder of success (however defined).

All by Myself.

Now, when I say that, it’s not to the chagrin of individuality . Each person is unique and no doubt intrinsically valuable. Meaning, that our value does not rise and fall based on our performance, material gain or accrued accessories. Our worth is deep seated in the fabric of who we are as human beings . So, in many ways, it’s good to celebrate individuality. Individualism - in the sense of overly relying on "me-myself-&-mine" - is a different animal altogether.

Suffice it to say that when we discuss identity or personhood it’s an incomplete picture to think of a person in isolation from others. Whether dressed to the nines working behind a mahogany desk, or someone with a plaque on the wall with alphabet soup behind her name - We’re human in the context of connections . In other words, I am a “person-in-community.” This community or environment may consist of family, friends, or foes. It’s made up of all that surrounds us, from the most complex to the simplest of organisms ("from the top all the way down").

And this has “what” to do with raising my children? Or prepping for my math final? Or deliberating the beta of my next investment?

It may actually give us some perspective. If the world isn’t simply uncharted territory for individuals to conquer, but a dynamic, vibrant system of incredible connectivity (constantly in process), then gauging the health of our relationships is crucial. I find it especially interesting that renowned psychologist Abraham Maslow, in his famous hierarchy of needs, acknowledged later in his life that the pinnacle of his model is not "self-actualization" but rather "self-transcendence." The shift was a recognition that reaching our full potential as a person may be personal but isn't privatized. In other words, it involves our relating to the "other" as a critical component to wholeness.

And for relationships to be in the process of becoming healthier, it takes work . It could be a gamechanger to realize that personal well-being has everything to do with the well-being of others . It opens our eyes to the gravity of our response-ability with our words, attitude and actions. Now - granted - depending on our past experiences, when we hear discussions about communication, consideration, forgiveness, understanding, listening well (among a host of other aspects important to relationship building), sometimes we sense a tinge of discomfort, hesitation or hurt. Many of us know all too well the emotional fallout and mental anguish of relational dissonance, betrayal or heartache. It leaves a mark and affects issues such as trust, vulnerability and intimacy.

Maybe Consider:

1) Am I being care-full with my relationships?

I sometimes ask kiddos in session if they would venture into the living room on Christmas morn, and with a running start, leap as high as possible, smashing their carefully wrapped presents under the tree. Or do we carefully handle that which is valued as gifts? Drawing from the illustration, we then discuss how we treat the "gift" of our family members. When they speak, are we engaged in listening well with the goal of understanding? Or do we grin and bear their words, chomping at the bit to say our piece? Do we slow down and treasure the moments we share together? Or do we brush past one another as if we’re antiquated fixtures in a room?

2) Inner Circle of Influence

There’s an oft-quoted expression that "you are the average of the 5 people closest to you." But Organizational Psychologist, David Burkus , offers an interesting qualification – “You’re not the average of the FIVE people you surround with. It’s way bigger than that. You’re the average of all the people who surround you. So take a look around and make sure you’re in the right surroundings.” With that being said, we do well to consider the persons who are closest to us, those in the “inner circle” as well as those around who we're around. The interconnected influences matter, as the folks we do life with (whether at school, work, or in the home) have a profound influence upon our choices, habits and ongoing character development.

So, amidst the hustle and bustle of our days, it may help to slow down and assess the condition of our connections.

And healthy relationships have a loving cadence to them . Rather than “finding” the rhythm, maybe it’s something we can learn or develop along the way. We don't slip into this. We need strategies, support and intentionality concerning our relational response. This is one of the tremendous potentials of the therapeutic process. It affords a safe space to discuss, explore and process a way forward regarding healthier connectivity.

Hurry Up and Slow Down?

Sun, 07 May 2023 13:22:11 GMT

Calendars, Alarms, Reminders, Caffeine, Work, Bills... How would it look? What would they say? Did I forget something? [Part 1]

I texted my sister yesterday her thoughts about possible stigmas that prevent someone from attending therapy, something I've been pondering after a recent online interview about mental wellness and why folks tend to run full-throttle through schedules but not carve out time for mental wellness. She texted back, "People [oftentimes] don't prioritize therapy bc they don't see instant results." If we have time and a problem arises, then we might try and find someone to help us fix some things. But be quick about it. There's tons to do.

Thinking about this, my family was planning the evening, as our son had an evening musical at his school, both my wife and I had readings and assignments to complete, and we needed to stop by the grocery store sometime to restock, then "find time" to clean, cook, wash clothes, hit up the gym, check emails (currently clocking 14, 927; I need to update the spam filter) and with school winding down, there's field day, awards ceremonies, and family birthday gatherings this week. And the dang "check engine" light just came on yesterday. These are the things that come to mind, but we have to check our Family Wall (an organizational app that has worked wonders, as long as one remembers to update it as the schedule builds).

We're no stranger to hurry. It's the pace of the world. But amidst the hustle and grind, there are pockets of space valued by families that need safeguarding. Not just for deadlines' or vacations' sake - for the sake of wellness .

Consider:

1) 1440

Major props to Kevin Kruse's book, 15 Secrets Successful People Know about Time Management . In it, he explains the various ways that this number has been the prompter par excellence in reminding him that there are only 1440 minutes in every given day. And the one resource that we can never replace or get back is that of time.

2) We don't have to please everyone or run ragged according to the demands of everyone around us. Simplification may be the inroad to contentment. Choose activities that line up with family values. What's important to you? What's essential to the well-being of your family?

3) Do we start eating healthy only after the doctor gives a dire prognosis? Do we attend the gym only the first of the year or a few months before summertime? What if healthy habits were built into the day?

4) Why is there this pressure to keep it all together? When we hear, "It's okay not to be okay," why the simultaneous cringe and sigh of relief?

5) How might we bolster our system of support to help our family be healthier and responsive to daily stressors? (Not reactionary and putting out fires impulsively when they pop up)

Such considerations require time to think about. And it could be that they would alter the structure of our days and the connectedness of our relationships. No time for workouts, eating healthy, therapy sessions, family dinners or slowing down?

It may cost us more , in the long run, n ot to.

Wellness of the Mind Series

Fri, 05 May 2023 12:20:22 GMT

National Mental Health Awareness month public event

Excited to join this dream team for a 4-part series.

Topics to be covered:

May 27th: You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know

June 17th: The Drought - Time To Get It Back

July 15: Healthy Relationship with Food

August 19: Battle Depression, Keep Moving

Hosted by Coach Mike Vialpando @ The Forge Roswell

Love Does Not Control Online Conference

Fri, 05 May 2023 10:55:54 GMT

I'm grateful to participate in this upcoming conference called Love Does Not Control Online Conference (via Eventbrite) hosted by Dr. Thomas Jay Oord. It was an honor to contribute to the recently released book, Love Does Not Control: Therapists, Psychologists, and Counselors Explore Uncontrolling Love (SacraSage Press, 2023).