Doug Gardner, LMSW, RPT

Hello! Thank you for taking a few minutes to learn a little more about me. Finding a therapist can feel daunting. There are so many of us out there! I hope you can get a sense of who I am and how I engage in my work. I want anyone I work with to feel safe, seen, heard, valued, and appreciated.

I first want to say that I am delighted to have the opportunity to support you and your family on your journey to greater strength and stability. The family is the environment in which we develop, grow, learn, and prepare for life. Helping a family to be as strong and stable as possible is one of the greatest services one can provide. I am honored and humbled to play a part in helping your family become a little stronger and more stable.

As a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor™️, I believe in the transformative power of art, play, sand tray, books, pretend, and creativity. These tools allow individuals to express themselves, explore difficult emotions, and process experiences in a safe and nurturing environment. Play therapy facilitates communication, builds personal strengths, fosters emotional wellness, and enhances social relationships, making it an incredibly effective approach for clients of all ages.

In addition to providing psychotherapy services, I also offer supervision and training to social work practicum students and post-graduate fellows at Mala Child and Family Institute. This role is profoundly fulfilling, as it allows me to shape the next generation of compassionate and skilled practitioners. By offering guidance, support, and mentorship, I help fellows develop their clinical skills, confidence, and professional identity. Witnessing their growth and dedication to providing high-quality, empathetic care is incredibly rewarding. This role aligns with my commitment to fostering a culture of learning and excellence within the field, ensuring that we continue to offer the best possible support to the diverse communities we serve.

I am accepting clients of all ages, racial, cultural, religious/spiritual backgrounds, sexualities, and sexual orientations. My approach is warm, inviting, and empathetic, and I am dedicated to creating a safe space where every individual feels valued and understood. Together, we can work towards a brighter, more fulfilling future for you and your loved ones. I look forward to partnering with you on this transformative journey.