Gary Swan, LCSW
Experienced LCSW for relationships and addiction
- Anxiety and stress support
- Addiction and relapse support
- Relationship and family concerns
About Gary Swan
Gary Swan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a substance abuse counselor practicing in Wisconsin with 21 years of professional experience. He works with people managing stress, anxiety, addictive or impulsive behaviors, relationship trust issues, low self-esteem, and communication challenges, and he supports clients facing depression, mood concerns, anticipatory anxiety, grief, and trauma.
Gary focuses on practical skills and insight-building to help individuals increase motivation, strengthen confidence, and improve interpersonal connection. He draws on a range of therapeutic approaches to address intimacy-related issues, family and blended family dynamics, parenting and fatherhood concerns, codependency, and the complex interactions of co-occurring conditions such as bipolar disorder or substance use. He also addresses issues of guilt, shame, forgiveness, and the effects of family of origin and control problems.
In sessions he aims to create an open, nonjudgmental environment where thoughts and feelings can be explored. He acknowledges that taking the first step toward change takes courage and offers steady support as trust is built one step at a time. He sometimes cites the Sufi poet Rumi's line, 'Be with those who help your being,' and encourages individuals to consider writing the next chapter of their life, including in their spiritual journey if they choose.
Gary focuses on practical skills and insight-building to help individuals increase motivation, strengthen confidence, and improve interpersonal connection. He draws on a range of therapeutic approaches to address intimacy-related issues, family and blended family dynamics, parenting and fatherhood concerns, codependency, and the complex interactions of co-occurring conditions such as bipolar disorder or substance use. He also addresses issues of guilt, shame, forgiveness, and the effects of family of origin and control problems.
In sessions he aims to create an open, nonjudgmental environment where thoughts and feelings can be explored. He acknowledges that taking the first step toward change takes courage and offers steady support as trust is built one step at a time. He sometimes cites the Sufi poet Rumi's line, 'Be with those who help your being,' and encourages individuals to consider writing the next chapter of their life, including in their spiritual journey if they choose.
Areas of Expertise
Primary Focus
Also Specializes In
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesAnger managementBipolar disorderCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
Additional Focus Areas
Attachment issuesBlended family issuesCo-morbidityCodependencyCommunication problemsControl issuesDivorce and separationDrug and alcohol addictionEmptinessFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsFatherhood issuesForgivenessGuilt and shameImpulsivityIsolation / lonelinessLife purposeMen's issuesMood disordersPanic disorder and panic attacksProcess addiction (porn, exercise, gambling)Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Self-loveSocial anxiety and phobiaWorkplace issues
Therapeutic Approach
Attachment-Based Therapy Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) Gottman Method Mindfulness Therapy Motivational Interviewing Solution-Focused Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions
How much experience does Gary Swan have?
Gary Swan has 21 years of professional experience.
Is Gary Swan a licensed therapist?
Yes, he holds the credential LCSW. License details: WI LCSW 8083 - 123.
In which languages does Gary Swan provide therapy?
Gary Swan provides therapy in English.
Where is Gary Swan located?
Gary Swan is located in Wisconsin.
How can I work with Gary Swan as my therapist?
You can work with Gary Swan through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
Does Gary Swan work with international clients?
Gary Swan does not currently work with international clients.
How much does therapy with Gary Swan 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, just click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Just 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.
Combining Therapeutic Approaches for Online Care
Gary Swan integrates Attachment-Based Therapy to explore how early relationship patterns shape current connections and emotional responses. This approach can help people address trust issues, intimacy-related concerns, and difficulties arising from family of origin dynamics.He also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify and change unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns. CBT is practical for managing anxiety, depressive symptoms, impulsivity, and many stress-related problems by teaching concrete coping and problem-solving skills.
In addition, a Client-Centered stance emphasizes respectful, empathetic listening and collaboration so clients feel heard and supported while they set their own goals. Gary works with each person to determine which combination of approaches fits best for their needs and preferences.
Finding the right therapeutic approach is part of the work. Gary will collaborate with clients to assess goals, try strategies, and adjust the plan as needed so the treatment aligns with what matters most to the individual. Online therapy options include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, offering flexibility for scheduling, accommodating different comfort levels, and making consistent support more accessible across everyday routines.