(she/her)
Are you going through challenging situations, uncertain what to do, or how to navigate the difficulties of life? Are you in the valley of life? Is this season a low point where you are facing relationship challenges? emotional struggles? psychological distress? Sometimes it is in the valley of your life where you can decide to reclaim the power of your story, and you will see the most growth and progress towards your life goals. Are you ready to take the next step, and learn how to thrive and not just survive? I’m not going to tell you it will be easy. But know I have been doing this work for over 15 years working in varies settings as a crisis worker, human services supervisor, and clinician, and most recently in private practice and I will guide, support and gently challenge you in your journey out the “valley of life.” My name is Tonya Gardner, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I utilize a compassion focused approach with cognitive and behavioral strategies to empower you to grow and develop into your true authentic self. Together we can set goals to determine where you want to be emotionally, physically and mentally. It is no coincidence that you are here and considering your next steps with me. You made a decision to do something different, allow me to meet you wherever you are without judgement, genuineness , and unconditional positive regard as you begin the pathway to your healing. Let’s get started.
In our first session, you can expect to be fully accepted and praised for deciding to work on finding your why and becoming the best version of yourself. We will explore what it looks like to challenge yourself and step outside of your comfort zone and say good bye to a past version of yourself as you navigate a pathway towards your true authentic self.
I specialize in working with adults in crisis, dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and adjustment concerns to include career transitions, divorce, life phases, and relationships. I also have an extensive history working with individuals who have complex trauma history to include, PTSD, childhood abuse/neglect, sexual abuse, interpersonal violence, suicidal ideations, and grief/loss/rejection.
I work mainly with adult women from 18 to 99 going through life transitions, and challenges ready to make meaningful changes in their life.
I help clients recognize unhelpful thoughts and cultivate a kind and nurturing inner voice, encouraging self-soothing and self-supportive behaviors that promote a strong sense of self