Sierra Gaw

LSW

My Approach

Sierra's therapeutic approach is both direct and pragmatic, creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment that allows patients to feel secure and validated. Her focus is on educating her patients about coping skills and emotion regulation, empowering them to actively manage and improve their mental health. Sierra tailors her techniques to each individual's unique needs, emphasizing small but powerful changes that contribute to long-term wellness. Although Sierra primarily works with younger populations, she is skilled in assisting patients from all walks of life. She employs a variety of evidence-based practices to help her patients better understand their thought patterns and behaviors, enhancing their ability to cope with stress and emotional challenges. Sierra aims to build strong, lasting therapeutic relationships by providing the necessary tools, support, and guidance for her patients to navigate their personal challenges effectively. Through her work, she strives to empower her patients, recognizing them as the experts of their own experiences, and supports them in making informed, self-guided improvements toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Ages Treated | Toddler, Children, Preteens, Teens, Young Adults, Adults

About Sierra Gaw

My Experience

Sierra began her journey into the mental health field at Northwestern University, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Education and Social Policy with a focus on Human Development and Psychological Services. She further advanced her clinical expertise by earning a Master of Social Work at Loyola University Chicago, specializing in Advanced Clinical Practice. Her educational path and her field experience have profoundly shaped her approach to mental health care.

In her practice, Sierra utilizes a variety of therapeutic modalities tailored to the individual needs of her patients. While not an exhaustive list, her approach includes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Play Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Strengths-Based Therapy. This selection of methods allows her to provide nuanced and flexible treatment options, ensuring that each patient receives care that is best suited to their personal healing journey. Sierra’s compassionate and empathetic communication style creates a safe space for patients to explore and overcome their challenges, with a commitment to fostering long-term growth and well being. Outside of the office, Sierra enjoys watching TV or movies on the couch with her dogs, baking, party planning and doing jigsaw puzzles.

Education

Northwestern University, B.S.
Education and Social Policy, Concentration in Human Development and Psychological Services
Loyola University Chicago, M.S.W.
Clinical Social Work, Micro Practice: Advanced Clinical Practice Specialization

Languages Spoken

English

Gender

She/Her

Treatment Modalities

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Attachment-Based Therapy
  • Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)
  • Compassion-Focused Therapy
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
  • Emotion Regulation Therapy
  • Emotionally Focused Therapy
  • Exposure and Response Prevention
  • Family Systems Therapy
  • Humanistic Therapy
  • Internal Family Systems Therapy
  • Interpersonal Psychotherapy
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Narrative Therapy
  • Person-Centered Therapy
  • Play Therapy
  • Psychodynamic Therapy
  • Strength Based Therapy
  • Trauma Informed Therapy
  • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy

If you’re ready to take the next step, make an appointment now.