Charlene Gainey

Welcome I'm so glad you're here. My name is Charlene Gainey, LISW-CP, and I believe that seeking support is one of the strongest and most courageous decisions a person can make. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by depression, navigating a difficult life transition, or carrying the emotional demands of caring for someone else, you don't have to face it alone. After nearly two decades in the mental health field, I've had the privilege of walking alongside people during some of the most challenging seasons of their lives. Throughout my career, I noticed that many clients weren't just looking for someone to listen—they wanted practical tools they could use when emotions felt overwhelming or relationships became difficult. That desire to provide both compassion and effective strategies led me to embrace a DBT-informed (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) approach. What I appreciate most about DBT is its balance of acceptance and change. It teaches that two things can be true at the same time: you can accept yourself exactly as you are while also working toward meaningful growth. My goal is to help clients build emotional resilience, strengthen relationships, reduce anxiety and emotional overwhelm, and develop healthier ways of responding to life's challenges—not by striving for perfection, but by making steady, sustainable progress. I have a special passion for supporting caregivers and those who spend so much of their lives caring for others that they often forget to care for themselves. Whether you're supporting an aging parent, a spouse, a child, or another loved one, caregiving can be deeply meaningful while also emotionally exhausting. You deserve a place where your own needs are seen, heard, and valued. Clients often describe my style as warm, collaborative, and encouraging. I strive to create a space where you feel genuinely understood while also feeling empowered to learn new skills and make lasting changes. I believe therapy should leave you with hope, greater confidence, and practical tools you can carry into everyday life. In addition to individual counseling, I offer DBT-informed skills groups that provide a supportive environment to learn, practice, and grow alongside others who are navigating similar challenges. Group counseling can be a powerful reminder that you are not alone and that healing often happens in connection with others. Whether you're seeking individual therapy or considering joining one of my groups, I would be honored to be part of your journey. My hope is that you leave each session feeling more equipped, more empowered, and more confident in your ability to navigate life's challenges with resilience and self-compassion. If you're wondering whether we're a good fit, I welcome the opportunity to connect and answer your questions before you begin. Finding the right therapist is an important step, and I want you to feel comfortable, informed, and supported as you make that decision. Whenever you're ready, I'll be here to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing, growth, and lasting emotional wellness.