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Gary Nelson, LCSW

LCSW supporting LGBT individuals and families
  • Strengths-based approach
  • Family and relationship focus
  • 17 years experience

About Gary Nelson

Gary Nelson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a credential that indicates he is licensed to provide clinical social work and mental health services. He brings 17 years of experience to his work and serves as an associate faculty member with a major nationally accredited university in Indiana.

With extensive experience supporting people who identify as LGBT, Gary has focused much of his clinical work on individuals and families, helping them improve communication, cope with stressors, and strengthen relationships. He emphasizes a strengths-based approach, encouraging people to draw on their own abilities and resources as a foundation for change.

Colleagues and students know him as personable and laid back, yet straightforward in his guidance. Rather than simply telling clients what they want to hear, he aims to help them find their voice and practical ways to address personal and family challenges. Gary’s background combining academic work and direct clinical practice informs a pragmatic, respectful style intended to support meaningful progress over time.

Areas of Expertise

Primary Focus

LGBTRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem

Also Specializes In

Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesSleeping disordersCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigueADHD

Additional Focus Areas

AbandonmentAdoption and foster careAttachment issuesBDSM, kink, and alternative sex cultureBlended family issuesBody imageCaregiver issues and stressChronic pain, illness, and disabilityCo-morbidityCodependencyCommitment issuesCommunication problemsControl issuesDivorce and separationDomestic violenceEating and food-related issuesEmptinessFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsFatherhood issuesForgivenessGuilt and shameHIV / AIDSHospice and end-of-life counselingImpulsivityInfidelityIsolation / lonelinessLife purposeMen's issuesMidlife crisisMoney and financial issuesMood disordersMulticultural concernsNarcissismPanic disorder and panic attacksPolyamory / non-monogamous relationshipsPost-traumatic stressPregnancy and childbirthPrejudice and discriminationSeasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Self-harmSelf-loveSex addictionSexual assault and abuseSexual dysfunctionSexualitySocial anxiety and phobiaWomen's issuesWorkplace issuesYoung adult issues

Therapeutic Approach

Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Mindfulness Therapy Motivational Interviewing Solution-Focused Therapy Trauma-Focused Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

How much experience does Gary Nelson have?

Gary Nelson has 17 years of experience in clinical social work and counseling.

Is Gary Nelson a licensed therapist?

Yes. He holds the LCSW credential. License details: IN LCSW 34006899A.

In which languages does Gary Nelson provide therapy?

Gary Nelson provides therapy in English.

Where is Gary Nelson located?

Gary Nelson is located in Indiana.

How can I work with Gary Nelson as my therapist?

You can work with Gary Nelson through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Gary Nelson work with international clients?

Gary Nelson does not currently work with international clients.

How much does therapy with Gary Nelson cost?

The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.

Approaches for Online Therapy and Staying Connected



Gary commonly integrates Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness Therapy into his online work. Client-Centered Therapy focuses on building a respectful, empathetic relationship so individuals feel heard and supported while exploring their own solutions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps people identify patterns in thinking and behavior and develop practical skills to manage symptoms like anxiety or low mood. Mindfulness Therapy offers techniques to increase present-moment awareness and reduce emotional reactivity, which can help with stress and coping.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Gary works with each person to understand their goals, preferences, and circumstances, and together they determine which methods are most likely to help. This collaborative stance allows therapy to be tailored rather than one-size-fits-all.

Online sessions - including video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging - provide flexibility for busy schedules, reduce travel time, and make it easier to maintain continuity of care. For many people, these options increase accessibility and allow work on therapy goals in ways that fit daily life.

Ready to start therapy with Gary Nelson?

Take the first step toward a better you.