Meet Our Counseling Team
Shawn McBride
MA, Licensed Professional Counselor/Therapist
My name is Shawn McBride, MA, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and African American male therapist serving people in Maryland and around the world. With 25 years of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals and couples at all stages of their relationships—whether dating, engaged, or married. I hold a Master’s degree in counseling, and I’m certified in Prepare Enrich Assessments. Additionally, I’m a member of the American Counseling Association (ACA) and the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC). Having been married to my wife for 30 years, I’m also the proud father of five adult children. My extensive experience as a therapist and my background as an ordained Christian minister—having officiated over 300 weddings—gives me a deep understanding of relational dynamics. I have successfully guided countless individuals and couples through nearly every relationship challenge imaginable, using a compassionate and goal-oriented approach. I work harder than anyone you’ll find to help you achieve healing and growth individually and in your relationship. My practice is rooted in creating a nonjudgmental, confidential, and supportive environment where you and your partner can feel safe to open up and navigate the tough issues. I provide perspective, teach practical skills, and offer effective tools to empower you to succeed. With my gray hair, wisdom, and real-life experience, I aim to help you address relational challenges quickly and practically. I prefer in-person sessions in my private office in Bowie, MD, but virtual appointments are available if you’re out of town or prefer a remote option. I offer a flexible payment structure, including major credit cards, HSA/FSA, and Afterpay for installment payments. Sessions are 55 minutes at $265, and I can provide clinical receipts for potential insurance reimbursement. Therapy can transform your relationship, even with just one or two sessions a month. I look forward to meeting you and your partner soon. Schedule an appointment today!
Rev Jaison & Mrs. Shellon Young
Pastoral Counselors
Rev. Jaison & Shellon Young Sr. have been married for nearly 25 years. We are the proud parents of three adult children; Bria, Jaison Jr. and Jordin. We have been in ministry for over 20 years and Mr. Young has been an ordained minister since 2010. Mr. Young holds a bachelors degree in Business Management from Stayer University (DC 1998). Mr. Young has mentored and trained many young men to become great citizens of the community. Mr. Young’s belief is that all people are made great and it’s our job to find that greatness in them. Throughout his life, Mr. Young has coached several couples in the art of marriage. Mr. Young stands on his beliefs that being ethical in life is a major reason why people are successful. Mrs. Young is a native from Guyana and attended Prince George’s Community College. She has spent most of her life in America. Mrs. Young’s call on life is to assist young women in obtaining a better relationship with Jesus Christ. She believe it is her mission to bring these young women closer to God. Mrs. Young has a passion for helping women see there true potential. In 2006, my wife and I started our first non-profit the Prince George’s Chargers Youth Athletic Association, Inc. and have been able to assist many families with finding Christ through our sports ministry. In 2010, my wife and I started our second non-profit Metro League Sports Association, which is now referred to as IMPACT Sports. Through this company we have been able to service over 500 children per year through the art of sports. Both Mr. and Mrs. Young are certified trainers through Prepare and Enrich Assessments.
Dr. Eric Elston
Crisis Intervention Specialist
Dr. Eric Elston is a compassionate and experienced educator with over 25 years of experience and a crisis intervention specialist dedicated to supporting individuals in their journey towards personal and professional growth. With a strong background in educational reform and emotional intelligence, he has conducted extensive research on the application of a systems approach to mentoring and social learning theory. His expertise lies in social learning and cultivating the unique abilities of disconnected youth and young adults. In his role as a crisis intervention specialist, Dr. Elston provides valuable instruction on social skills and self-regulation strategies. He specializes in working with students who may be considered "at risk" behaviorally, offering follow-up support services to address their unique needs. Dr. Elston's approach focuses on harnessing the power of social learning to empower disconnected youth and young adults to realize their full potential. Dr. Elston also serves as a resource to parents, providing guidance and increasing their knowledge and sensitivity in effectively responding to teens and young adults in crisis. Through consultation with parents, he implements effective behavior management strategies, fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for both the youth and their families. He recognizes the importance of collaboration with parents in creating a holistic support system that promotes the well-being and growth of their children. Furthermore, Dr. Elston is well-versed in conflict resolution intervention. He utilizes effective strategies to mediate and resolve conflicts, creating an environment conducive to growth and personal development. His expertise extends to assisting parents in the development of intervention strategies for children displaying challenging behaviors, ensuring that their unique abilities are recognized and nurtured. Driven by a deep commitment to social justice, advocacy, and the personal growth of individuals, Dr. Eric Elston is a dedicated mentor/coach making a positive impact on the lives of disconnected youth and young adults. With his expertise in social learning and cultivating unique abilities, he empowers individuals to overcome challenges, discover their strengths, and thrive in their personal and professional lives, while working closely with parents to create a supportive and nurturing environment for their children.
Jason R. Jones
Pastoral Counselor & Relationship Coach
Jason is a devoted husband and father, who brings over two decades of pastoral care experience and deep insight into relationships, marriage, and family dynamics to his counseling practice. As a seasoned spiritual leader and certied relationship counselor, he offers faith-based counseling that combines Biblical wisdom with clinical and practical relationship strategies. Drawing from his extensive experience as both a pastor and executive and his training in relationship counseling, Jason specializes in: - Premarital counseling and marriage preparation - Marriage enrichment and relationship strengthening - Dating guidance from a Christian perspective - Crisis intervention for couples - Blending families and navigating family transitions - Cross-cultural relationship dynamics His unique approach integrates: - Scripture-based wisdom and spiritual guidance - Practical relationship tools and strategies - Cultural awareness and sensitivity - Real-world experience from counseling hundreds of couples - Strategic problem-solving techniques - Effective communication strategies Counseling Philosophy "I believe every relationship has the potential for growth and transformation when built on a foundation of faith, mutual understanding, communication, collaboration and practical wisdom. My role is to help couples discover God's design for their relationship while providing them with real-world tools for success." Testimonial "Pastor Jones helped us build a strong foundation for our marriage by combining Biblical principles with practical relationship skills. His guidance was invaluable in preparing us for lifetogether." - A Newly Married Couple Availability - Mondays and Tuesdays, 10am-4pm ET - Evening and weekend appointments are occasionally available - Virtual counseling sessions offered - In-person counseling sessions available in Washington, DC, beginning in January 2025 - Flexible scheduling for engaged couples - Group workshops and seminars upon request
