Charlene Gainey

Your first session is about understanding what brings you to therapy and what you hope to get out of it. We'll talk through your current concerns, what's been weighing on you, and the history that matters most. I keep our time together safe, respectful, and judgment-free, so you can be honest about what's really going on. We'll also start identifying your first goals and introduce a few practical coping tools you can use right away. By the end of our first session, you'll walk away with more clarity, a first-draft plan, and the reassurance that you don't have to figure this out alone.

I provide collaborative, DBT-informed therapy that balances compassion with practical skill-building. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, mood instability, and trauma-related concerns, helping them strengthen emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.

My style is supportive, structured, and goal-oriented. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space while also gently challenging unhelpful patterns. Together, we focus on developing insight and building real-life tools that promote lasting, meaningful change.

Your first session is focused on understanding what brings you to therapy and what you hope to gain from the process. We will review your current concerns, relevant history, and any stressors impacting your daily life. For caregivers, this may also include exploring the emotional, physical, and relational demands of your caregiving role and how it may be affecting your well-being.

I strive to create a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard and supported. The first session is primarily assessment-focused, but we will also begin identifying initial goals and, when appropriate, introduce practical coping tools you can start using right away.

By the end of our first meeting, you can expect greater clarity about your goals, a preliminary treatment plan, and reassurance that you do not have to navigate your challenges—whether personal or caregiving-related—alone.