Paul Gardner Psychotherapy, LCSW, LCSWR

In college, I volunteered at the LGBTQ+ center on campus, which I found really fun and fulfilling. I was a music major and had originally wanted to play music professionally. I decided to change paths and become an LGBTQ+-affirming therapist.

I am an LGBTQ+-affirming therapist; I have had great rapport over the years with my clients who identify as LGBTQ+. I also specialize in anxiety, worry, and panic. My approach to anxiety uses a combination of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Sometimes, we do things that don’t work for us long-term in an effort to get rid of anxiety. Maybe this is overeating, overworking, or drinking too much alcohol. These behaviors might work temporarily but over time, they keep our anxiety and worry in place. In some cases, these behaviors lead to health problems down the road. We will look at these behaviors nonjudgmentally and see what we can do to build a life that commits to your values and where you want to be.

I am always interested in learning the most up-to-date information on LGBTQ+-affirming therapy and treatment for anxiety. I always enjoy reading nonfiction and taking continuing education courses to better my practice.