Greetings! As a licensed professional counselor certified by the state of Georgia, New Jersey, Florida, and California, I provide individuals with fresh insights and strengths so they can integrate skills learned in therapy into their lives. I treat a wide range of mental health issues including mood and anxiety disorders, interpersonal difficulties & stress related to life transitions. I work collaboratively with people who struggle to manage depressive thoughts or are caught in a cycle of anxiety and avoidance.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
The first session is all about getting to know you, building rapport, and creating a safe, welcoming environment where you feel comfortable sharing your story. My goal is to help you feel supported and understood from the very beginning.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
With over 20 years of experience as a licensed therapist, I have developed a wide range of skills and strengths that allow me to provide effective, compassionate, and personalized care to my clients. My greatest strengths include: 1. Deep Empathy and Compassion I excel at creating a warm, welcoming environment where clients feel truly heard, understood, and valued. My empathetic nature allows me to connect with clients on a genuine, human level, which fosters trust and safety in the therapeutic relationship. 2. Holistic and Integrative Approach I draw from multiple therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. I customize my approach to meet the unique needs of each client, understanding that no single method works for everyone. 3. Extensive Experience Working with Trauma and Emotional Dysregulation I have specialized training in helping clients heal from trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation. My work with clients includes building emotional resilience, improving distress tolerance, and enhancing emotional regulation skills. 4. Strength-Based and Empowerment-Focused Approach I focus on helping clients identify and build upon their existing strengths and resources. Rather than solely focusing on problems, I emphasize solutions and positive growth. 5. Excellent Communication and Active Listening Skills I actively listen to my clients’ concerns, ensuring they feel truly heard and understood. I use reflective listening, summarization, and validation techniques to confirm that I understand their experiences accurately. 6. Adaptability and Flexibility I am skilled at adapting therapeutic approaches to suit each client’s unique needs and preferences. Whether a client benefits most from structured cognitive-behavioral techniques or a more fluid, person-centered approach, I adjust my methods to ensure optimal results. 7. Creating a Judgment-Free Environment I prioritize establishing a non-judgmental, safe space where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings without fear of criticism. Clients are encouraged to express themselves freely, fostering authenticity and self-acceptance. 8. Commitment to Continued Learning and Professional Growth I am dedicated to ongoing professional development, staying informed about the latest therapeutic techniques and research. I actively pursue training, workshops, and certifications to enhance my sk
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
As a licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience, I am best positioned to serve adults and adolescents who are dealing with trauma, low self-esteem, identity confusion, emotional dysregulation, and life transitions. My practice is rooted in evidence-based approaches such as CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy, allowing me to address a variety of challenges effectively.
About Cheryl Gardner, LPC,CPCS
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have over 20 years of experience as a licensed therapist, utilizing CBT as a core therapeutic approach in my practice. My work with clients focuses on identifying cognitive distortions that contribute to negative emotional states and unhelpful behaviors. I have applied CBT techniques in treating: Anxiety Disorders: Helping clients reduce catastrophizing thoughts and practice exposure techniques. Depression: Assisting clients in reframing hopeless thoughts, setting achievable goals, and improving motivation. ADHD: Addressing negative self-talk, improving executive functioning, and developing organizational strategies. Trauma: Helping clients identify triggers, challenge negative core beliefs, and regain control over intrusive thoughts. Self-Esteem Issues: Assisting clients in challenging beliefs of inadequacy and building a healthier self-concept.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I have integrated DBT into my practice for over 20 years, particularly when working with clients who struggle with emotional dysregulation, impulsive behaviors, and difficulties managing interpersonal relationships.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
I have found Person-Centered Therapy to be a powerful approach, particularly when working with: Trauma survivors who need a non-judgmental space to share their experiences. Individuals struggling with low self-esteem and identity confusion. Clients dealing with anxiety, depression, and grief. Adolescents and adults who feel misunderstood or invalidated. Clients seeking personal growth and authenticity.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
I have found SFBT to be extremely useful when working with: Clients struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma who need practical tools to cope with immediate challenges. Individuals going through life transitions, such as divorce, career changes, or grief. Clients with ADHD, focusing on improving daily functioning and goal-setting. Individuals seeking brief therapy with clearly defined goals. Clients needing motivation and empowerment, especially those feeling stuck or overwhelmed.