Amanda Shana McIntyre is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), with more than 17 years of experience in the field of behavioral health. She was born in Chicago, Illinois, and relocated to Northern Virginia during her early childhood. Amanda attended Clark Atlanta University attaining a Bachelor of Social Work. She went on to complete a Master of Social Work at Barry University in Miami, Florida and then completed a Master of Divinity from Emory University’s Candler School of Theology.

As a social work practitioner Amanda has been afforded numerous opportunities to care for those in need and promote wellness. She has worked with children and families in foster care, she has cared for adults in behavioral healthcare facilities and community mental health centers , and for over 10 years Amanda has had the honor and privilege of serving both active-duty military members, veterans, and their families.

The Sanctuary Care & Counseling Center is Amanda’s aim to offer a safe and sacred space where people can heal.

Through varied work experiences  we have been granted front row seats to the pain, trauma, rejection, disappointment, grief, uncertainty, loneliness, and shame that far too many experience.

We believe in the power of hope, we know what peace can do. We know how people can thrive in safe and sacred spaces. We know that life looks vastly different for those who have support.

We seek out medical doctors, dentists, physical trainers, and nutritionist; our mental and spiritual wellness deserve the same care and intentionality.

As a result, we have made a commitment to being person-centered, compassionate and competent professionals that clients can trust to “walk with them”, as they aim to sort it all out.

Meeting YOU where you are means being intentional about letting you, your preferences, your experiences, and your needs guide our work together. It means not forcing you into one theory, but being open to considering various therapeutic methods that may be complementary to who you are, where you are, and what you bring to the therapeutic space. It means being flexible, granting you permission to lead, and ensuring that you always feel safe.

PEOPLE-We value people. We value you. You are important to us, and the fact that you have chosen, or considering choosing us on your healing journey is an honor.

SAFETY– This is a judge free zone. It is a priority that you feel safe, secure, and free while in The Sanctuary.

COMPASSION-We care, and are intentionally sensitive and aware of  YOU, YOUR story, YOUR needs. “We see you”.

HONESTY-This works both ways. We will always be honest with you, even if  it’s uncomfortable. We ask the same of you. If we can’t be honest with each other are we even doing therapy?

HUMOR-We are going to laugh. Period! There is healing in humor, and humor can also be found in healing.

GRACE– We will persistently remind you to extend yourself grace. We will remind you to accept yourself in all of your humanity and imperfections. We will encourage you to love yourself, all of you, as you strive to do better, to be better, whatever “better” means for you.