Chad Gardner
I became a psychotherapist because I believe deeply in the human capacity to heal, grow, and create meaningful change. For me, therapy is a collaborative process- one where we work together to understand the patterns that keep you feeling stuck and uncover new ways of approaching life with greater clarity and compassion. My style is warm, down-to-earth, and centered on building a safe, supportive relationship. I know that reaching out for therapy can feel vulnerable, and I strive to create a therapeutic experience where you feel genuinely seen and understood. Together, we’ll explore not only the challenges you’re facing but also the strengths, values, and resources you already carry within you.
First session
In sessions, I aim to balance thoughtful reflection with practical tools you can use outside of therapy. Sometimes that means slowing down to understand your emotions on a deeper level, and other times it means identifying strategies to help you feel more grounded in daily life. My hope is that our work not only provides relief in the present moment but also helps you develop lasting skills for resilience and self-compassion. I see therapy as a journey of discovery- one that doesn’t have to be walked alone. If we work together, my commitment is to meet you where you are, honor your story, and support you in moving toward the life you want to live.
Strengths
As a therapist, I draw from my professional experiences in hospice and domestic violence/intimate partner violence, addressing grief, loss, trauma, and relationship stressors. As a former firefighter and EMT, I possess a unique perspective for individuals exposed to secondary trauma. I draw from a blend of evidence-based approaches including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), solution-focused therapy, and psychodynamic exploration. This integrative style allows me to tailor our work to your unique needs- whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, or navigating a major life transition. I also have a strong interest in working with clients who are exploring identity, self-worth, or the impact of past experiences on their present life.
Ideal clients
I work well with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship challenges, life transitions, and emotional challenges. I strive to create an inclusive, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients from diverse backgrounds feel respected, heard, and empowered in their growth. I am especially passionate about helping people build practical coping skills, strengthen self-understanding, and move toward lives that feel more balanced, meaningful, and aligned with their values.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in session as I have found it helps clients identify and change unhelpful thought patterns that affect emotions and behavior. I have used CBT to treat concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress, and unhealthy coping patterns. CBT focuses on practical skills and strategies that can help people respond to challenges in healthier and more effective ways.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I utilize acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) in session as I have found it helps clients develop psychological flexibility by learning to accept difficult thoughts and emotions rather than fighting them. I have used ACT for anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic stress, and life transitions. ACT encourages people to act in ways that align with their personal values, even when discomfort is present.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I utilize dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) in session as I have found it helps clients build skills to manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and reduce harmful behaviors. I have used DBT for emotional dysregulation, self-harm, anxiety, depression, and borderline personality disorder. DBT focuses on mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness skills.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
I utilize solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) in session as I have found it helps people identify strengths and practical solutions rather than focusing heavily on problems or the past. I have used SFBT for stress, relationship issues, life transitions, and goal-oriented counseling. SFBT emphasizes small, achievable changes that can build momentum toward larger improvements.
Grief Therapy
I utilize grief therapy in session as I hand found it helps clients process the emotional, psychological, and life changes that can occur after a loss. I have used grief therapy to support individuals experiencing bereavement, complicated grief, or difficulty adjusting after the death of a loved one or other significant loss. Grief therapy provides a supportive space to express emotions, develop coping strategies, and gradually adapt to life after loss.
Location
Virtual sessions
In-person sessions17 Forest Ave, Fond du Lac, WI 54935, Suite 016
Identifies as
Man
White
Top specialties
Couples Counseling
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
Other specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Domestic Violence
Family Conflict
First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Life Transitions
Men's Issues
Military/Veterans
Self Esteem
Women's Issues
Serves
Adults (18 to 64)
Couples Counseling
Elders (65 and above)
Family Conflict
Family Therapy
Gender-fluid
Individual Therapy
Man
Non-binary
Teenagers (13 to 17)
Transgender
Licensed in
WisconsinLicense 12378 - 123