3+ Years Exp - LCSW
Eugene Gillen
3+ Years Exp
3+ Years Exp
Eugene Gillen
I was born in Memphis, Tennessee, and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, as the youngest of six children. My wife and I have been happily married for 28 years, and together we have four adult children. As a military spouse, I served as the primary caregiver for our family during deployments and other extended separations. I have a passion for teaching and enjoy activities such as listening to music, enhancing my financial literacy, watching movies, learning history, and studying psychology. My experiences working at a church food pantry and as a substitute teacher for special needs children have deepened my understanding of unconditional love. Before becoming a Clinical Social Worker, I completed two units of Clinical Pastoral Education, which complemented my theological studies and broadened my perspective on compassionate care.
I helped a young adult recognize that, during and after the end of the relationship, he actively surrendered his power to his significant other. This client discovered his own agency.
Clients can expect a relaxed process where they will be gently challenged and appropriately affirmed. My aim will be to emphasize self-compassion and support clients as they discover the beliefs and behaviors that have produced unhealthy outcomes throughout their lives.
A first session will consist of spending time connecting with and getting to know the client. I will explain my role and discuss confidentiality.
I became a therapist because being the recipient of talk-therapy transformed my life. The possibility of helping clients obtain clarity and increase their internal psychological resources excites me. I am committed to assisting others on their personal discovery journeys.
Highlights
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
Clients will leave a session with me feeling empowered to reframe unproductive thoughts and strengthened to accept and explore their vulnerabilities. Clients will begin to question the validity of certain long-held beliefs about themselves and others. Clients will feel heard and affirmed.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I utilize evidence-based therapies, including Psychotherapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, with a formal study of The Enneagram with a focus on Men's Mental Health.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I am a skilled and empathetic listener with a calming presence. I am relatable and an effective communicator. I am proficient at helping clients uncover core issues and identify barriers. I am able to ethically and seamlessly utilize self-disclosure to aid clients with modifying their behaviors.
Specialities