DK Therapy has grown, and we would like to give you the opportunity to get to know a little more about our therapists, what challenges their clients face, and what it would be like to work with them.
At DK, we focus on your comfort within the therapy office. We hope that knowing a bit about your therapist before your first visit, helps you make a connection even before meeting them.
Without further ado…Let’s get to know teen therapist Clara Gay, LSW.
Clara Gay, LSW, exploring beautiful Budapest
What experiences have brought you to the helping profession?
Clara: In high school, I had no idea what I wanted to do after graduation and felt so “othered”. Everyone else in my family had known what career they wanted to do since they were my age, all my friends had plans of what schools or trade they wanted to enter, and my teachers always asked me what my plans were.
My high school guidance counselor was the first person to look at me and say “You’re 16, you don’t need to know how to want to spend the next 60 years of your life.” The relief I felt when someone finally listened to my confusion, validated my feelings, and made me feel less alone was immeasurable. I knew then that I wanted to provide that comfort for other people, just like my counselor had provided to me.
Why do you think it is important for people to participate in therapy?
Clara: Growing up is hard! You’re trying to figure out yourself and the world all while juggling daily activities like school, work, sports, or clubs. Sometimes, those around you just don’t “get” it.
Therapy is a time when you’re able to share what’s on your mind with someone who is ready to listen and isn’t part of your everyday life like family, friends, or teachers. In therapy, I provide a space where you’re able to express the struggles you might experience without judgement and share your successes without sharing the spotlight.
What are some of the challenges your clients face?
Clara: Many of my clients describe themselves as feeling misunderstood, anxious about their future or frustrated with what is happening in their life. Sometimes, it’s hard to pinpoint exactly how you feel and so instead clients feel overwhelmed by everything they are experiencing.
Navigating their identity as they become their own person can also be a challenge for my clients. I appreciate working with teens who desire to bravely live their authentic lives, whatever that may look like for them.
