Christine Chesnel

LCSW, 14 years of experience
Rated 5.0 stars out of 58 ratings
Warm
Open-minded
Humorous
VirtualAvailable

I am a clinical social worker passionate about providing mental health treatment that is meaningful and accessible. I believe mental health is just as important as medical health, since after all, your head is connected to your body. Through a culturally-sensitive and trauma-informed lens, I work to foster the therapeutic relationship to gently challenge clients to get curious about how current patterns of behaviors and ways of thinking serve them.

Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

In the first therapy session, clients can expect that this typically involves the gathering of information about the client's presenting concerns, brief personal history, and goals for therapy. Usually, clients will have filled out an intake form prior to this initial session in order to help focus the conversation. Clients will be asked about their current symptoms, relevant life events, and any previous experiences with mental health treatment. I provide an overview of the therapeutic process and discuss confidentiality and informed consent. Additionally, the first session is an opportunity for clients to ask questions, express any concerns, and begin to establish rapport with me. By the end of the session, clients can expect to have a better understanding of what to expect from therapy and to begin laying the foundation for future sessions.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

I practice psychodynamic therapy to fully engage clients in interactive discussions, providing active listening as well as relevant feedback. Using a social justice framework, I prioritize a strengths-based & harm-reduction approach to clients' therapeutic goals and life experiences.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

If you haven't been feeling like yourself, want to improve self-worth and asserting boundaries, or you may have trouble with day-to-day activities; therapy can be a great place to start feeling better. Whether you're new to therapy or have connected in the past, I look forward to partnering with you on your continued journey of healing and self-discovery.

SpecialtiesTop specialties
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Serves ages
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Location
Virtual
My treatment methods

Attachment-based

In my practice, I integrate attachment-based therapy to help clients explore the impact of early relationships on their current emotional and relational patterns. Through assessment, psychoeducation, and exploration of attachment styles, I assist clients in understanding how past experiences shape their present behaviors and relationships. Together, we work on regulating emotions, processing attachment-related wounds, and fostering healthier relational dynamics. Using the therapeutic relationship as a primary tool, I employ various interventions and techniques to facilitate healing and growth, as I aim to support clients in developing secure attachments and navigating healthier relationships throughout their lives.

Dialectical Behavior (DBT)

In my therapeutic approach, I lean on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) techniques to support clients in building skills for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. With a focus on validation and acceptance, I help clients identify and challenge maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors, empowering them to navigate life's challenges more effectively. By incorporating DBT principles into our sessions, I strive to create a supportive and collaborative environment where clients can cultivate greater self-awareness, resilience, and overall well-being.

Motivational Interviewing

I incorporate Motivational Interviewing (MI) techniques to help clients explore and resolve ambivalence about change. Through empathetic listening, reflective questioning, and collaborative goal-setting, I work with clients to strengthen their intrinsic motivation for positive behavior change. By honoring their autonomy and fostering a nonjudgmental, supportive atmosphere, I aim to empower clients to clarify their values, set achievable goals, and take meaningful steps towards personal growth and self-improvement.

Trauma-Focused CBT

I utilize Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) to address the impact of traumatic experiences on clients' lives. I assist clients in processing traumatic memories, managing distressing symptoms, and restoring a sense of safety and empowerment. With a focus on promoting resilience and healing, I provide a supportive and validating environment where clients can explore their trauma-related thoughts and feelings while learning effective coping strategies for navigating their daily lives.

Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 8 ratings

1 rating with written reviews

April 30, 2025

Christine has helped me navigate emotions through ex relationships and everyday life. She's so kind, considerate, and matches my energy, it's been so refreshing to have her in my life. I can't recommend her enough and I'm so happy I have her! She really understands the client and is on top of everything.

Verified client, age 18-24
Review shared after session 38 with Christine