Skip to main content
Headway
Headshot of Chad Gardner, LCSW

Chad Gardner

Therapist(he/him/his)
11 years of experience
  • Virtual & in-person
  • Family issues, Grief or loss, Relationship issues, Identity issues, Trauma
  • Individual therapy, Family therapy

Great to meet you!

I became a psychotherapist because I believe deeply in the human capacity to heal, grow, and create meaningful change. For me, therapy is a collaborative process- one where we work together to understand the patterns that keep you feeling stuck and uncover new ways of approaching life with greater clarity and compassion. My style is warm, down-to-earth, and centered on building a safe, supportive relationship. I know that reaching out for therapy can feel vulnerable, and I strive to create a therapeutic experience where you feel genuinely seen and understood. Together, we’ll explore not only the challenges you’re facing but also the strengths, values, and resources you already carry within you. As a therapist, I draw from my professional experiences in hospice and domestic violence/intimate partner violence, addressing grief, loss, trauma, and relationship stressors. As a former firefighter and EMT, I possess a unique perspective for individuals exposed to secondary trauma.

My approach to therapy

As a therapist, I draw from a blend of evidence-based approaches including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), solution-focused therapy, and psychodynamic exploration. This integrative style allows me to tailor our work to your unique needs- whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, or navigating a major life transition. I also have a strong interest in working with clients who are exploring identity, self-worth, or the impact of past experiences on their present life.

What you can expect from me

In sessions, I aim to balance thoughtful reflection with practical tools you can use outside of therapy. Sometimes that means slowing down to understand your emotions on a deeper level, and other times it means identifying strategies to help you feel more grounded in daily life. My hope is that our work not only provides relief in the present moment but also helps you develop lasting skills for resilience and self-compassion. I see therapy as a journey of discovery- one that doesn’t have to be walked alone. If we work together, my commitment is to meet you where you are, honor your story, and support you in moving toward the life you want to live.

About me

  • I identify as
    Caucasian, Cisgender Man
  • My style is
    Solution Oriented, Affirming, Open Minded

Qualification and insurance

  • Years of experience
    11 years of experience
  • Training
    MSW (Master of Social Work) at University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
  • License type
    LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) (Wisconsin)
  • Licensed in
  • Insurance accepted
    Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Carelon Behavioral Health, Cigna, Oscar, Oxford, Providence Health Plan, United Healthcare, United Healthcare Medicare Advantage

Cost

Care details

  • Top specialties
    Family issues, Grief or loss, Relationship issues, Identity issues, Trauma
  • More specialties
    Anxiety, Depression, Stress management, Anger management, End of life care, Women's issues, PTSD
  • Therapy methods
    Psychodynamic, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Humanistic, Structural Family, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
  • Care types
    Individual therapy, Family therapy
  • Ages served
    Adolescents, Seniors, Adults
  • Languages
    English
  • Location
    17 Forest Avenue Suite 16
    Fond du Lac, WI 54935

Nearby areas