30 Years Exp - LCSW
Stephanie Gagnon
30 Years Exp
30 Years Exp
Stephanie Gagnon
My name is Stephanie Gagnon, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. For the past 30 years I have worked primarily in an outpatient setting working with individuals and couples who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. When a person is experiencing severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. My goal and passion are to bring healing and happiness into their lives. My approach in counseling is an Integrative one, meaning I tailor the therapeutic process to best fit the needs of the person.
My most memorable person thus far in my career is a mom who lost her youngest daughter at the age of 18 to a tragic car accident. She was in the darkest depths of grief. During our first session she stated, "I don't know if I will ever be able to get better". I responded with, "I don't know if you will be either". As the years passed, approximately 4, she learned to live with her grief and begin to reconnect with her life.
Clients can expect an Integrative approach to counseling. From the first session, I verbalize they are the "pilot", and I am the "copilot". I believe an individual is the leader of successfully achieving a fulfilling life when given the opportunity and tools to do so.
My goal in the first session is to foster connection. I want an individual to feel comfortable and hopeful that together we can disentangle their story and create one that they have willingly written.
In my 30-year career as a psychotherapist I would say my motivation has shifted. In my early years, it was to "help" others reach their goals by building rapport and the utilization of therapeutic techniques. As the years have progressed, and I have had the privilege of meeting thousands of people, my motivation is to be a part of an amazing transformation from despair, tragedy, and hopelessness, to that of joy, strength, and happiness.
Highlights
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
A person will leave a session feeling heard, validated, and have a clear understanding of their role in successfully achieving their identified goals to living a more fulfilling life.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I utilize an Integrative approach to treatment which draws from various psychological theories and techniques in order to best suit the needs of the individual.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My greatest strengths:
Specialities