New to Grow
Hi, I’m Gwen, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy is direct, compassionate, and grounded in real-life experience. I believe therapy should feel like a safe space where you can be honest about what you’re going through without judgment. Over the years, I’ve worked with individuals navigating substance use, life transitions, trauma, stress, family dynamics, and the emotional weight that comes with trying to hold everything together. I have experience supporting people from many walks of life, including individuals who feel overlooked or misunderstood by traditional systems. In our work together, we focus on understanding patterns, building practical coping strategies, and creating meaningful change. I believe healing happens when people feel seen, heard, and supported while also being challenged to grow. My goal is to meet you where you are while helping you move toward the life you want to build.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
The first session is really about getting to know each other and making sure you feel comfortable. We’ll talk about what brought you to therapy, what you’ve been dealing with recently, and what you hope to gain from our work together. I’ll also ask some questions about your background, support system, and any challenges you’ve been facing. We’ll review things like confidentiality, policies, and how therapy works so you know what to expect moving forward. There’s no pressure to share everything right away. The goal of the first session is simply to begin building trust and understanding what support looks like for you. By the end of our session, we’ll have a clearer idea of your goals and how we can work together to support them.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
One of my greatest strengths as a therapist is my ability to create a space where people feel comfortable being honest about what they’re going through. Many of my clients tell me they appreciate that I’m both compassionate and direct — I listen deeply, but I’m also willing to challenge patterns that may be holding them back. I bring a practical, real-world perspective to therapy. My goal isn’t just to talk about problems but to help clients develop tools they can actually use in their everyday lives. I’m also experienced in working with individuals navigating complex life situations, including substance use, stress, family dynamics, and major life transitions. Above all, I’m committed to meeting people where they are while supporting them in building healthier coping skills, stronger boundaries, and a greater understanding of themselves.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
My ideal clients are individuals who are ready to better understand themselves and make meaningful changes in their lives. You might be someone who feels overwhelmed, stuck, or carrying more than you show to the outside world. Maybe you’re navigating substance use, relationship stress, family issues, grief, burnout, or simply trying to figure out your next chapter. Many of the people I work with are used to being the strong one for everyone else. They may struggle with setting boundaries, processing past experiences, or managing stress in healthier ways. You don’t need to have everything figured out before starting therapy. If you’re open to reflection, honest conversation, and learning new ways to cope, we will likely work well together.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have significant experience using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients understand how their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are connected. Through CBT, I support individuals in identifying unhelpful thinking patterns, building healthier coping skills, and developing practical strategies to manage anxiety, depression, stress, and substance use triggers. My approach is structured yet flexible: I tailor CBT tools to each person’s needs, helping them learn to challenge negative beliefs, regulate emotions, and create consistent behavioral change. In both group and individual settings, CBT allows clients to build insight and regain a sense of control in their daily lives.
Motivational Interviewing
I have extensive experience using Motivational Interviewing to support clients who feel ambivalent about change or overwhelmed by where to begin. MI is a collaborative, person‑centered approach that helps individuals identify their own reasons for change and build confidence in their ability to move forward. In my work across IOP, PHP, substance use recovery, and outpatient therapy, I use MI to help clients explore their values, strengthen motivation, and take realistic, meaningful steps toward their goals. My style is supportive, respectful, and non‑judgmental, allowing clients to feel heard while safely examining what’s holding them back.