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Dan Gleason (he/him), Clinical Intern

 Hi there! I’m Dan. I’m in the final year of a Masters in Counseling at CSU. This is a second career for me - one I've decided to pursue after feeling unfulfilled in the corporate tech world, and it's clear to me that counseling is what I'm meant to do. 

My approach focuses on building trust first. I believe that before healing or growth can occur, it's on me to create an environment where clients feel supported and safe. At the same time, part of my role is to help folks identify and confront issues. Supporting someone means, at times, challenging their beliefs and opinions. I do so gently, but firmly, without judgment or criticism. Also, I think it's important to find a little space for humor - therapy doesn't always have to feel heavy. 

My techniques are, first and foremost, person-centered. Most often, I'll lean into Narrative Therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I also like to apply an existential lens, and to dabble in a bit of bibliotherapy (suggesting relevant books) when it feels right. I believe deeply in the power of externalizing; focusing on the problem as something that is separate from, but in relationships with, the person. 

I work with adolescents and adults of any identity. I'm especially interested in supporting men to access their vulnerability and challenge masculinity norms, and this is by no means my only focus; I get a lot of joy out of working with a diverse population of folks. 

When I'm not sitting in a chair, I love to cook new meals, run, slide down snow on wooden planks, bike, and read good fiction. I'm also always down to sit on a couch and watch a sci-fi or fantasy show.