Colleen Gigante
Colleen Gigante
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
I am a real person! I believe that everyone’s uniqueness is a gift to share with the world. I have always thought that every “flaw” we see in ourselves is what truly makes us special. Everyone has a story and every story is important.
With positive regard, genuineness, and empathy I am able to build rapport and have a trusting therapeutic relationship with my clients. My experiences have professionally and personally led me to learn to appreciate every moment the good, the bad, and the ugly. I have faith in that thought that everything happens for a reason, as challenging as they may be. We learn through these experiences’ resiliency. The resiliency to keep going regardless of the struggles we may face in our life.
My personality and passion are parallel to the theoretical orientation I use, always with the client feeling safe, respected, and heard. Remember… don’t let anyone else write your story for.
- Anxiety/ Fear of the unknown.
- Depression
- Parenting Strategies/ Healthy Communication
- ADHD
- Adolescents
- Teenage Development/Feelings of being lost
I am a real person! I believe that everyone’s uniqueness is a gift to share with the world. I have always thought that every “flaw” we see in ourselves is what truly makes us special. Everyone has a story and every story is important.
With positive regard, genuineness, and empathy I am able to build rapport and have a trusting therapeutic relationship with my clients. My experiences have professionally and personally led me to learn to appreciate every moment the good, the bad, and the ugly. I have faith in that thought that everything happens for a reason, as challenging as they may be. We learn through these experiences’ resiliency. The resiliency to keep going regardless of the struggles we may face in our life.
My personality and passion are parallel to the theoretical orientation I use, always with the client feeling safe, respected, and heard. Remember… don’t let anyone else write your story for.
- Anxiety/ Fear of the unknown.
- Depression
- Parenting Strategies/ Healthy Communication
- ADHD
- Adolescents
- Teenage Development/Feelings of being lost
Education and Experience
I fell in love with this career while I was a high school teacher. As a teacher I realized that many young people see their unique attributes as flaws – when really, these “flaws” could actually become strengths when guided and nurtured in a healthy way.
When further pursuing this career, I went on to receive my graduate degree at Argosy University and my bachelor’s degree at the university of UNC, Chapel Hill. I was the recipient of the Strathmore’s “Who’s Who Worldwide” award for exemplifying leadership and achievement in my profession. I gained my experiences while working at a Trauma Center, Baker Act Unit, Substance Abuse Community Center for Children and Adults, and this roller coaster we call life. This career choice means that I get the opportunity to help others realize their own inner strength and beauty, which is incredibly rewarding for me.
5 Fun Facts about Colleen:
-
- I was in the United States Marine Corp
- As a teacher my students always came to me for emotional support which inspired me to become a therapist
- In boot camp I was nicknamed “smiley” because I could not stop smiling
- I am a mom of two beautiful daughters
- I lived in Japan for 2 years
