Staff

Rev. Ryan P. Bagnal, M.A., NCC, LPC-A

Hello, I’m Ryan Bagnal. I’m a licensed psychotherapist, and the founder and owner of Selah Counseling Services of Sumter, SC. I am a native of Sumter, SC, and I hold undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Biology, cum laude, as well as a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am licensed as an LPCA by the State of South Carolina.

I previously worked in youth ministry, as well as with CRU (Campus Crusade for Christ) in Georgia, and I am ordained as a minister of the Gospel. I am also a professional church musician, having originally majored in music in college.

I consider counseling to be a calling on my life, and I view my work with others through the lens of that calling. I believe that each individual is made in the image of his or her Creator and has unique needs. I use an eclectic approach to counseling. There are no “one size fits all” approaches for clients. I evaluate the needs of each person or couple individually and tailor their experience using a multifaceted approach. This can include counseling, solution-focused brief therapy, and health/nutrition coaching.

I am a grateful follower of Jesus Christ, whom I joyfully confess as my Lord and Savior. I am honored to provide Christian counseling that is firmly rooted in the timeless truth of God’s Word while thoughtfully incorporating contemporary knowledge of behavioral health and therapeutic practices. While my faith and worldview provide the foundation for my approach, my services are open to anyone who desires support, healing, growth, and meaningful change. I don’t require that clients share my faith, nor do I attempt to force my personal beliefs on anyone. I work with people from many backgrounds, and I believe that every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Faith-based counseling is not mandatory for services at Selah Counseling, but is joyfully offered to those who desire it. Our only requirement is that you have a desire for growth and improvement in your life. My hope is to meet people where they are and walk alongside them as they pursue growth and positive change.

In my spare time, I like to listen to and play music, watch movies, talk to people around the world on my Ham Radios, and read a good book. I also loves to play with my Dachshund, Daisy, as well as my rescued tuxedo cat, Angel, and her two kittens, Friedrich and Liesl.

Sarah Shelton, BSN, RN

Sarah is a 2007 graduate of the University of South Carolina, having received a Baccalaureate of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication.

She continued her academic career at Valdosta State University, graduating in 2013 with a Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing. She has been working as a registered nurse since 2014 in both inpatient and outpatient behavioral health settings.

Sarah is currently working towards her Master of Science in Nursing at Valdosta State University, with an anticipated graduation date of December of 2026. She is in the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner track, and anticipates being licensed as a PNP in 2027. She is currently completing her required hours of preceptor supervision with Selah Counseling Services of Sumter.

Sarah is married to her husband Andy, who is a retired veteran of the United States Air Force. They have 14-year-old twins. She loves spending time with her family, including their two cats and two dogs, reading a good book, traveling, and drinking yummy coffee beverages.