Diane Sharnek, MS Ed., LPC

Licensure
Licensed Professional Counselor

Education

Associate of Applied Science, Criminal Justice, Youngstown State University

Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, Kent State University

Masters of Science, Vocational and Community Counseling, Youngstown State University

Professional History

Diane began her career in psychology as a Vocational Evaluator at Goodwill Industries working with clients with various emotional and physical disabilities who were seeking employment. Next, she worked as a Guidance Counselor at Mercer County Vocational and Technical School where she counseled and taught life skills classes to at-risk youth in a drop-out prevention program. After 4 years in the school setting, Diane became a PsyCare employee in 1991 as a member of the Psychology Department at Hillside Rehabilitation Hospital. It was there that she developed a passion for working with patients with physical and cognitive deficits, many of whom had experienced a traumatic brain injury, a stroke or a spinal cord injury. Working with these patients frequently required the development of behavior management plans due to various behavioral/cognitive issues. In addition, she has extensive experience performing neuropsychological testing and evaluation of cognitive/dementia difficulties.

Diane also has over 20 years of experience in disaster response as a Mental Health Specialist. She has deployed to numerous hurricanes and natural disasters as part of a Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT /PA-3) through the government’s national disaster medical system. This has allowed her to utilize crisis management skills while frequently observing the best in people during the worst of times. Most recently, Diane serviced as the Director of Human Resources at Boardman Medical Supply Company for 4 years  before returning as a therapist at PsyCare.

Specialties

• Anxiety
•  Adjustment Disorders
•  Bereavement
• Cognitive Impairments/Dementia
• Depression
• Rehabilitation Counseling
• Self-esteem/Self care
• Stress Management
• Vocational Counseling
• Worker’s Compensation

Professional Objectives

“It is my belief that each person is a unique and worthy individual who should be treated with respect and acceptance. My goal is to support clients as they work to achieve their full potential.”

Theoretical Orientation

“I utilize an eclectic approach that is based on each individual’s needs and preference and may consist of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness. I frequently provide patients with educational hand-outs to increase treatment success.”

Professional Affiliations/Memberships

• Disaster Medical Assistance Team – PA-3

Certificates/Special Training

• Non-violent Crisis Intervention Training
• Star Behavioral Health Provider for Military and their families
• Psychological First Aid
• Formerly trained in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM)