Hi, I’m Shirley Noël Toby, LMFT, M.Div., PMH-C
I’m a Marriage and Family Therapist and the founder of HopeSent Marriage and Family Therapy. My work is grounded in collaboration, thoughtful care, and attention to the relational contexts that shape our lives. I believe therapy is most meaningful when it honors both where someone has been and what they hope for moving forward.
My Approach
As a therapist, I strive for attunement through clarity, reflection, and collaboration. I approach therapy as a shared process, listening closely for patterns, emotions, and meaning while holding space with care and clarity. Sessions are thoughtfully paced, allowing room for exploration without pressure or urgency.
Rather than directing or fixing, I work alongside clients to support understanding, agency, and growth through connection.
Who I Work With
I work with individuals, couples, and families navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, and roles that carry emotional responsibility. This includes clergy and clergy spouses, first responders, first-generation adults, and those balancing leadership, caregiving, or relational demands.
My work is informed by cultural sensitivity and an understanding of how identity, societal and generational expectations, and responsibility intersect with emotional well-being.
Spirituality, Meaning, and Care
My background includes formal theological training, which informs my sensitivity to the ways faith, belief, and meaning can shape emotional and relational experiences. Spirituality is approached as a client-led area of exploration — honoring personal belief, questioning, and the impact of faith systems without prescribing or directing any particular worldview.
This includes thoughtful support for those navigating spiritual transition, deconstruction, or healing from spiritual harm.
Professional Grounding
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and engage in ongoing professional development to support thoughtful and ethical care. I work with individuals, couples, friends and family members.
I am also certified in Perinatal Mental Health (PMHC-), which allows me to specialize in informed and intentional care for those who are navigating growing their family and the emotional, physical and mental shifting this new season can bring.
If you’re considering therapy and wondering whether this might be a good fit, you’re welcome to reach out. I would be glad to explore next steps with you.