Gary Conachan III (he/him)

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

I have read several books and pursued my own learning about the Internal Family Systems approach. I've used it with clients and seen them find healing from acute trauma backgrounds. Conceptually, the IFS approach aligns with my values and beliefs around how we can change and heal.

Attachment Theory

Attachment theory can be helpful in understanding both ourselves and selves-in-relationship: with friends, family, significant others, and our planet. The therapeutic relationship can be incredibly healing when it becomes a secure attachment and model for other relationships in our lives.

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

In sex therapy, CBT is often used to address sexual problems and dysfunctions. Sometimes we get in our own way and need to change our thinking, receive education (especially where there's been none), and learn better communication skills to help our sexual relationships.

Feminist

For me, my orientation as a feminist therapist looks like naming my identities and biases, the reasons behind treatment approaches, and always asking for consent in treatment. In other words, I work to equalize the power imbalance as much as possible, always working collaboratively with my clients.

Humanistic 

Humanistic therapy places the client at the center of their treatment. While the therapist brings expertise from their field, the client is in charge of their goals for treatment and empowered to share what is working and what needs improvement. Both therapist and client show up in their full humanity.

Sexual Problems

From working through sexual dysfunctions to exploring your sexuality, sexual concerns can take a toll on us individually and relationally. When our concerns impact those around us, they can become especially distressing. One of my top specialties is sex therapy, which means I am regularly researching, consulting, and seeking further training in these areas.

LGBTQ Issues

As an LGBTQ person, I have lived experience and knowledge around coming out, navigating non-affirming family relationships and faith communities, exploring sexuality, and more. I actively pursue my own learning about topics involving gender and sexuality to expand my own knowledge and fill in the gaps where my lived and professional experiences fall short. Additionally, I provide pro-bono evaluations and care letters for those needing them for gender-affirming care.

Relationship / Marriage Issues

From courses in relationship and family therapy to my own personal work and studies, I have knowledge and experience around navigating difficult relationships. I can help you implement boundaries, increase communication skills, and clarify your personal values.

Spirituality

As an ex-evangelical queer person, I've experienced first-hand what it's like to deny who you are for your faith and community. While my experiences and knowledge are rooted in the Christian faith, folks of other faiths have had similar experiences and I recognize the need in our field to help clients work through issues of faith and spirituality.

Gender Identity

As a cisgender, gay, queer person, I've had my own experiences around navigating gender identity. I'm passionate about helping folx find supportive, gender-affirming care; as such, I'm currently offering care letter evaluations pro-bono. Recognizing the limits of my experience and knowledge, I seek to learn what I don't know and stay up-to-date on the latest research regarding trans-affirming care.