ABOUT ME

Shamara is the CEO of Mara’s Lighthouse Counseling Center, a premier mental health group in Jacksonville, FL. With 15 years of experience in the mental health field, she specializes in Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Sexual Abuse, and child welfare. Shamara is a Qualified Expert in Child Welfare, a Certified Child Welfare Case Manager, and an EMDR Therapist. She is also a Child-Parent Psychotherapist and an Infant Mental Health Therapist, offering a deep understanding of early childhood development and attachment. Additionally, Shamara is licensed in Social Work across Florida, Georgia, Illinois, North Carolina, South Carolina, Maryland and Texas.

Beyond her clinical expertise, Shamara brings a wealth of experience in program development. She has successfully designed and implemented initiatives that address the mental health needs of diverse communities, ensuring that services are accessible and effective. As an experienced presenter and business coach, she has also served two terms as the Unit Chair of the National Association of Social Workers’ Northeast Florida Unit and provides clinical supervision to Social Work and Marriage and Family Therapy professionals pursuing licensure. Shamara’s supervision style emphasizes compassion and commitment, helping clinicians grow through a supportive, collaborative approach.

Shamara is deeply committed to the growth of her team at Mara’s Lighthouse and the broader mental health community. She has hosted retreats and support groups for the community. As a business coach, she empowers professionals to expand their practices and achieve success. Through her leadership, mentorship, and program development work, Shamara is helping to shape the future of mental health care, ensuring that others are equipped to make a meaningful impact in their fields.

EDUCATION

Bachelors of Psychology - Florida State University, 2009

Masters of Social Work - Florida State University, 2011

Certificate in Child Welfare, Florida State University 2011

Certification in Child Welfare Case Management,

Florida Certification Board 2012

Florida Licensed Clinical Social Worker - SW12874

Georgia Licensed Clinical Social Worker - CSW006764

Illinois Licensed Clinical Social Worker - 149023189

South Carolina Licensed Independent Social Worker - Clinical Practice - 14957

North Carolina Licensed Clinical Social Worker - C015493

Maryland Licensed Clinical Social Worker - 32404

Awards

Social Worker of the Year 2022- NASW Florida

Comcast Rise Award Receipeint 2024

Top Doctors of America Honors 2024