Gabrielle Klein is an advanced clinical intern at Wildflower. In her clinical practice, Gabrielle draws on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. Gabrielle works with adults, couples, and family structures experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues, as well as the challenges that accompany big life changes including the transition to parenthood. Gabrielle has experience in bringing awareness to behaviors that may no longer be serving us and guiding clients to healthier coping strategies, identifying values-aligned actions and how to achieve them, and integrating mindfulness practices in everyday life. She is working towards completing her master’s degree through DePaul University. Read Gabrielle’s full bio here.
What inspired you to pursue a career as a psychotherapist?
I became a psychotherapist because of several significant experiences and realizations in my life. My own powerful experiences in therapy showed me firsthand the transformative potential of this work. During my difficult transition to parenthood, I discovered the vast network and resources available to new parents, which made me realize the importance of support and guidance during challenging life chapters.
Speaking to professionals in the field and learning about the career path further inspired me. In graduate school, I have found the coursework fascinating and deeply meaningful, which has reaffirmed my commitment in the field. Ultimately, I want to help people create genuine, positive change in their lives, and being a psychotherapist allows me to be a part of that transformative journey for others.
As a psychotherapist, what part of your job is most satisfying?
The part of being a psychotherapist that I find most satisfying is being able to see the growth in my clients and experience the powerful connection vital to this vulnerable work.
How would you describe your therapeutic approach?
My therapeutic style is warm, validating, and relational. Being a human is messy and the chance to explore our lives in therapy with all of the vulnerability that it entails, is deeply powerful. I believe that you are the expert on your life and experience and my role is to listen and help guide your healing process. I am passionate about continually learning and I tailor my approach to what works best for each client.
Why do you believe that psychotherapy can help?
I believe that in a supportive and collaborative therapeutic relationship, psychotherapy can help improve self-awareness, support emotional regulation, alleviate distressing symptoms, and provide a wide range of healthy coping strategies. By promoting insight and understanding, psychotherapy can also help clients improve their relationships, empower them with the right tools, and may prevent more severe issues from developing.
What are some of your specialties and what drew you to them?
I was first introduced to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a client in psychotherapy. CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are deeply interconnected and that changing one can lead to changes in the others. I found this concept deeply helpful as well as the collaborative and goal-oriented nature of this approach. Additionally, I have chosen to specialize in perinatal mental health due to my own challenging transition to parenthood and the incredible benefit psychotherapy can provide during this beautiful but difficult phase of life.
What is one thing about psychotherapy you wish everyone knew?
I wish for everyone to know that psychotherapy can benefit everyone at any point of struggle, transition, or unknown in their life. It can feel daunting and stressful to even begin the process of seeking out psychotherapy, but the process and end result of leading a healthier, more fulfilled life is so worth the effort.
What is your motto or personal mantra?
In moments of struggle, I draw on the helpful line from Glennon Doyle: “you can do hard things”.
What are your favorite self-care activities?
I love to rock climb, read a great book, and make a mess baking with my two little kids.
