Christopher Ellison , LCSW - Therapist at Grow Therapy

Christopher Ellison

Christopher Ellison

(he/him)

LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual

Greetings! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southeastern Kentucky. I received my master’s degree from Campbellsville University and have practiced for five years. I have several years of experience working with clients across their lifespans, specializing in adolescents and young adults ages 10-21. Overall, I enjoy helping clients navigate the complexities of adolescence, young and older adulthood with resilience, self-awareness, and emotional well-being.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In the first session, clients can expect several key components: getting to know my clients by establishing rapport, gathering information, and understanding the client's needs and goals. Introductions and some administrative tasks, such as filling out paperwork or discussing logistical details like scheduling, fees, and confidentiality. During our first session I will aim to create a safe and comfortable environment where the client feels heard, understood, and respected. I will invite the client to share their reasons for seeking therapy and what they hope to achieve from the process. This may involve discussing current challenges, symptoms, or concerns, as well as any goals or expectations for therapy. I will ask questions to gather information about the client's background, personal history, family dynamics, relationships, and relevant life experiences. This information helps me understand the client's unique context and tailor the treatment plan accordingly. I will explain the limits of confidentiality and discuss informed consent, ensuring that the client understands their rights and responsibilities in therapy. I will answer any questions you have about privacy, confidentiality, or the therapeutic process.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

I feel my greatest strength as a provider is my empathetic, nonjudgmental approach and ability to "Listen."

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

I enjoy working with clients who are motivated and open to the therapeutic process. Who desires personal growth and self-discovery: Therapy isn't just for addressing problems—it can also be a journey of self-exploration, personal development, and self-improvement. Clients interested in gaining insight into themselves, understanding their patterns of behavior, and working towards individual goals can benefit significantly from therapy. Folks who struggle with interpersonal relationships: whether it's with family members, romantic partners, friends, or coworkers. I can help clients develop healthier communication skills, set boundaries, resolve conflicts, and cultivate more satisfying relationships. Those navigating life transitions or challenges: Life is full of transitions and challenges, such as job changes, relationship changes, loss, relocation, or identity exploration. I can provide support and guidance during these times of transition, helping clients navigate uncertainty, manage stress, and adapt to change. I can help by providing a safe and non-judgmental space to express themselves: a space that provides a confidential space where clients can express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment or criticism. Therapists offer empathy, validation, and support, helping clients feel understood and accepted. Ultimately, I am trained to work with diverse clients and issues, and they strive to create a supportive and collaborative therapeutic relationship that meets each client's unique needs and goals.

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I utilize CBT with my clients to help them examine the relationships between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Operating on the premise that our thoughts influence our emotions, affecting our behaviors and vice versa. CBT aims to identify and modify negative or distorted thinking patterns and replace them with healthier, more constructive thoughts, leading to changes in emotions and behaviors.

Adlerian

Using an Adlerian model, I work with clients collaboratively to explore the client's unique subjective experiences, beliefs, and goals.

Attachment-based

Using this model I have helped clients through exploration of early relationships with caregivers and understanding how they shape an individual's emotional and relational development throughout life.

Biofeedback

Biofeedback is a technique used to help individuals learn how to control physiological processes in their bodies, such as heart rate, muscle tension, and skin temperature, through real-time monitoring and feedback.

Mindfulness-Based Therapy

Mindfulness is a practice that involves paying attention to the present moment with openness, curiosity, and acceptance. While I don't have personal experiences, I can explain how mindfulness is typically used in practice and how I integrate it into interactions.