Alumni All-Star: Shanelle L. Brown Best, EAS-C, LCSW

I have been a social worker since graduating from the MSW Direct Program in 2016. I began my social work journey at IU South Bend and due to my husband’s job transfer to Georgia, I had to finish my last 4 or so classes and practicums through the MSW direct program. I was so grateful to not have to give up my dream to graduate from the IU School of Social Work.

In gaining the experience at an Advanced Generalist program, it opened my mind up to all levels of social work. I sought out my internship at an Employee Assistance Program (Macro) and later to become employed there. As time went on, I wanted to gain more of my clinical experience, so I began doing groups (Mezzo) and clinical assessments at a community mental health company that deals with clients with persistent mental illness. I became state licensed in GA in March 2017 and recently fully licensed in February 2020 right before the pandemic shutdown. I am currently in the process of opening my private practice (Bestway Solutions, LLC). My practice specializes in Reproductive Medicine (due to my own experiences and struggles), Grief and Loss, Trauma, and Anxiety.

The reason I chose social work is because I grew up in Indianapolis with parents who struggled with mental health and addictions and I had to carry a lot of the burden with my younger siblings. I had a social worker who stepped in at a young age who supported me. That social worker gave me a lot of support and helped me navigate through challenges as a young girl. I always wanted to be a social worker and give back just as someone gave to me. ” I tell people all the time I am a product of my environment” I took that saying and turned it around for the good in my life. I use my life’s challenges to bring awareness to others and strive to overcome challenges in life. Becoming a social worker has been a “Healthy Coping Strategy” for me that has allowed me to impact so many others.

My biggest accomplishment is becoming fully licensed and providing support in this recent crisis (pandemic). Challenges in finding my true niche. Social Work has so many avenues to go to. I struggled to find out what area is the one that truly gives me the satisfaction. I learned to always be open to what the field of social work has to offer. Helping comes in all different forms. While serving our clients, it is important to practice self-care and be able to take the time needed to protect your mental health. They used to preach self-care, but as a mother, social worker, and wife, self-care is what is needed to maintain. Do not be afraid to try different areas of social work.

Favorite Quote:
“Making the Best out of Life requires the Journey” – Shanelle Best