Chris Gardner, LPC (She/Her)
The Basics
Title: Clinical Therapist
Availability: Availability within one month
Location: Downtown + Telehealth
Schedule: Weekdays, Evenings + some weekends
Insurance/payment: UPMC, Highmark BCBS, Untied/ Optum, Cigna, Aetna
Sliding Scale: $100-140
My Specialties
I enjoy working with and welcome members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Through personal experience and professional training, I am committed to supporting and empowering children, adolescents, adults, couples, parents, and families navigating issues including sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, as well as relationship health. I am here to provide you with the culturally affirming support and encouragement you deserve in becoming your authentic self.
My Orientation & Approach
My approach helps family members better understand one another, improve communication, change behavior, resolve conflict, and generate stability. This approach is appropriate for all ages and can be useful for individuals in resolving issues related to their current situation and issues related to their family of origin.
Some Fun Facts
I was raised by two compassionate medical professionals and a loving grandmother – they instilled a strong desire to help others. I am so grateful for their presence and influence. I’ve lived in various regions throughout the United States, but I have made my home in Pittsburgh for most of my adult life. One of the greatest joys in my life has been parenting a child who has become a beautiful and sensitive adult. I now live with my very curious and acrobatic cat, Phoebe.
When I can, I spend time in nature - the forest, the tide pool, the river walk, the vacant lot - they all nourish me. I’m an avid gardener, and I am compelled to grow much more than I have room for. My other love is Art - making it and looking at it. My most recent endeavor was building an Arts and Crafts style buffet with my octogenarian stepfather. Not sure what’s next!
What working with me is like
Most of us have or will experience some sort of trauma and loss in our lifetime. It may result from a catastrophic event, a serious health diagnosis, a medical procedure or injury, a reproductive health issue, losing a loved one, a career change, or moving to a new location - the individual defines it. Regardless of whether the event is recent or distant, survivors of loss and trauma are more likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety. I am here to provide you with a safe, supportive space, to honor your feelings, and to facilitate movement toward a more joyful and rewarding life.