Meet Clara Gay, LSW
Pronouns: she/her/hers
**Offering In-Office and Online Video Sessions**
Clara Gay, MSW
I am a Licensed Social Worker, and I am often thought of as an empathetic sounding board. I work with both teens (15+) and adults. My clients experience me as encouraging, understanding, and optimistic, which combined create a safe therapeutic space. I pride myself on creating a warm environment for you to share what is happening in your life, the big and the small. I am ready to listen and help you navigate what comes next without judgment.
How I Help…
Every person is unique in why they decide to start therapy and what they hope to gain from it, so I find it imperative to develop a plan that aligns with your needs. I utilize a range of therapeutic approaches based on what feels most comfortable, and impactful, for you such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. We might try an approach in a session that you love or one that you dislike, and we will experiment to find what feels like the perfect fit.
No matter what therapeutic technique used, I strive to help my clients move towards their goals. For some, life transitions may be what has motivated them to start therapy. Maybe you need someone to listen non-judgmentally to your feelings about this change, or perhaps you want to gain self-confidence and coping skills to help you navigate this transition. The unknown can feel dark and scary, together we can shine a light and find a path out.
For others, depression or anxiety may be what brings them to session. Together we will build upon your current strengths to increase self-awareness and gain coping skills. Through a strong therapeutic relationship, I work to provide a safe space for you to explore not only how these challenges came about but also what the future can look like with the proper tools to face these issues.
I look forward to working with you no matter what brings you to explore or continue therapy. Some sessions may be filled with laughter, some with tears, others with silence. No matter what you need each session, I am excited to see you work toward your goals!
My Background…
I grew up in Massachusetts, receiving my Undergraduate degree in Psychology with minors in Education and Criminal Justice from Suffolk University. I stayed in Boston as I obtained my Master of Social Work degree with a concentration in Children, Youth, and Families from Boston College. As a therapist, I have worked in schools and community settings fostering connections with youth and their families to aid in growth in areas such as life transitions, depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationships. This experience has solidified my desire to help people identify their strengths and use them to work toward the life they want.
On a more personal note…
When not engaging in therapeutic work, I enjoy exploring something new. Pottery painting, community workout classes, tennis with a friend, dinner at a new restaurant – you name it I’ll try it! One of my favorite activities, no matter the weather, is taking a walk by the water with a cup of coffee and catching up with friends or family.
