Gwendolyn Gielow

About Me

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply unsure how to move forward, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. I received my MSW from DU and became licensed shortly after. With over 25 years of experience, I work with adolescents, adults, and families facing anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, substance use, grief and loss, and difficult life transitions.

I believe therapy should be a safe place where you can be yourself without judgment.

Reaching out for help can be difficult, but it can also be the first step toward healing, growth, and living your best life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) in Colorado, and I would be honored to walk alongside you in that process.

My approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, and I will meet you where you are while helping you understand what may be getting in the way of the life you want to live.

Together, we’ll explore your challenges, build healthier coping skills, and identify practical ways to create meaningful and lasting change. My style is thoughtful, curious, and compassionate, while also being gently challenging when it can help you move forward.

I draw from evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing, tailoring therapy to your individual needs, strengths, and goals. Reaching out for help can be difficult, but it can also be the first step toward healing, growth, and living your best life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) in Colorado, and I would be honored to walk alongside you in that process.

What typically happens in an initial therapy session

• Goal exploration — You and the therapist talk about what you want to work on: symptoms, life transitions, relationship patterns, or deeper identity questions. This helps shape the direction of future sessions.
• History and context — You’ll share relevant background: past therapy experiences, medical or mental health history, major life events, and current stressors.
• Expectations and boundaries — You discuss what you need from the therapist, what feels supportive, and what doesn’t. This is where you define the tone of the relationship.
• Therapeutic fit — The therapist will check in about whether their style aligns with your needs. You’re evaluating them just as much as they’re learning about you.
• Early strategy-setting — You might outline initial goals or identify a few starting points for future sessions.