My name is Cheryl A. Swanson, LCSW. I am a Christian therapist who specializes in helping adults heal from trauma, anxiety, and depression, and in providing support to parents who are navigating their children's difficult behaviors.
Whether you're seeking emotional healing, practical tools, or faith-based support, I strive to create a safe, compassionate space where you can begin moving forward. My approach is gentle, collaborative, and person-centered. I believe you are the expert on your own life, and therapy should move at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Early in our work together, I focus on teaching practical skills so you can begin feeling better while we address the underlying issues contributing to your symptoms. I also believe that understanding how trauma, anxiety, and depression affect the brain and body can help you make sense of your experiences and build confidence in managing them. I draw from evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and psychodynamic therapy, tailoring treatment to your unique needs. One aspect that makes my practice unique is my ability to integrate Christian faith into therapy for clients who desire it, while always respecting each person's preferences and beliefs. I also have a special passion for working with parents who are motivated to learn new parenting interventions and practice them at home. Parents often report feeling more confident as they see their children's behavior change.
During your first sessions, we'll begin with a thorough assessment and then focus on helping you learn tools and strategies to reduce your distress. This gives you time to get to know me before discussing more difficult experiences, although our sessions are guided by what feels most important to you. My hope is to create a peaceful, safe environment where you can share your story openly. Clients often describe me as calm and attentive. I ask thoughtful questions to better understand your experiences, and when introducing new concepts or skills, I check in frequently to ensure they feel clear and helpful. I want you to know that I hear you and that my goal is to help you feel better.
