Chris Gardner, LPC

I love digging and playing in the dirt, collecting cool rocks, hiking and gardening. I also enjoy working with my hands and have explored metalworking, blacksmithing, woodworking, knitting, drawing and collage over the years.

When my body and hands need a rest, I love curling up on the couch with a cup of tea, listening to music or watching an episode of Only Murders in the Building.

I take a relational and integrative approach to therapy because I believe every person deserves care that reflects their individual experiences and needs.

At first, I ask plenty of questions. I am curious about how you became the person you are and what has shaped your life. As we get to know each other, our work becomes increasingly collaborative. Together, we set goals and explore new perspectives and strategies.

My role is to offer a compassionate, supportive space where you can share your hopes, struggles and fears, and try out different ways of thinking and being. I hope our work helps you feel more able to make your own choices and experience greater joy in daily life.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing individual, couples and family therapy for adolescents and adults. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Pittsburgh and my Master of Science in Education from Duquesne University, followed by further training in WPIC’s Structural Family Based Curriculum.

Over more than 20 years, my work has included community mental health, intensive in-home family therapy, case management, a partial hospitalization program for children, and reproductive healthcare and family planning. I have been part of Forward Wellness since 2019.

I welcome members of the LGBTQIA2S community and am committed to supporting adolescents, adults, couples, partners and families as they explore sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and relationship health. I want to offer culturally affirming support, useful resources and encouragement.

My approach also considers how people affect one another within families and relationships. When one person is struggling, others may feel that impact too. Together, we can explore those connections, strengthen communication and work toward a better understanding of one another, including how experiences in your family of origin may shape your life today.