Nicholas Chasler

Hi, I'm Nick. Clients who find me are capable and self-aware, but still find themselves overthinking, shutting down, becoming defensive, or feeling responsible for other people’s emotions. They often grew up being treated as “the problem” in their family of origin, and have learned to mask important parts of themselves, or were told their needs and reactions were too much. I work with LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals who want to understand why these patterns keep returning and create change that goes deeper than simply coping with them.

I view symptoms as having developed for understandable reasons and still feel necessary in situations that resemble the past. Together, we’ll become curious about what a very specific pattern may be protecting and develop new ways to respond. The aim here is to create greater self-trust to allow for actual meaningful change. I use an attachment-based, trauma-informed approach that treats symptoms and coping patterns as meaningful adaptations. We explore when a pattern appears, the experiences and emotional beliefs surrounding it, and what may make it difficult to respond differently. I also incorporate practical skills, emotional awareness, and body-based work when helpful. Therapy is collaborative: we decide together what deserves attention and move at a pace that supports both safety and meaningful change.

The first session is a chance for us to get to know each other and to begin understanding what’s bringing you in. You can expect a mix of conversation with some structure. I’ll ask questions about what’s been feeling difficult and your history, as well as what you hope might change. There’s no pressure to share everything at once, either. I know it can be a lot meeting with a clinician for the first time.

We’ll also talk about what therapy might look like moving forward and make sure it feels like a good fit. My goal in the first session is to begin building a foundation of trust. Many people feel nervous at first, which is completely normal.