Cheryl Gardner

Hi there, I’m Cheryl Gardner, and I’m so glad you’re here. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health. I’m based in Atlanta, but I’m proud to offer virtual therapy services across California, Georgia, New Jersey, and Florida, which allows me to connect with clients from diverse backgrounds and experiences.What truly drives me as a provider is helping individuals discover their authentic selves. I’ve spent much of my career supporting clients through trauma, anxiety, ADHD, and identity challenges, and I’ve witnessed the transformative power of self-awareness and self-compassion. What I love most about this work is the ability to create a safe space where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to explore their emotions and navigate life’s challenges.I specialize in working with adults, particularly women and neurodivergent individuals, including those on the autism spectrum. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a deep belief that everyone has the potential for growth, healing, and fulfillment. I believe in meeting my clients where they are, helping them honor their experiences, and supporting them as they develop the tools to thrive, not just survive. Outside of therapy, I’m passionate about building communities of support through my self-awareness movement, ‘Discover, Embrace, and Evolve.’ It’s all about helping people step into their full potential, embrace their uniqueness, and live with purpose. I’m honored to walk alongside my clients as they embark on their own journeys of transformation, and I truly believe that no matter the challenges, healing is always possible.

What led me to specialize in working with autistic and neurodivergent clients is a combination of my professional background, personal values, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact. Throughout my career, I’ve encountered many clients who, despite their challenges, have shown incredible strengths and resilience. However, I’ve also seen how many of them have struggled to be understood and accepted due to societal expectations and misunderstandings about neurodivergence.For me, it’s about embracing diversity in the human experience and creating a space where neurodivergent individuals can thrive. I’m passionate about dismantling the stigma that surrounds autism and other neurodiverse conditions, providing support that focuses on strengths, and promoting inclusion. What drives me the most is being able to help clients discover their unique abilities, build self-acceptance, and empower them to advocate for their needs in all areas of life—whether that’s in school, the workplace, or relationships.Additionally, I’ve witnessed firsthand how therapeutic interventions can be life-changing for neurodivergent individuals, especially when therapy is tailored to their unique ways of processing the world. This specialization feels like a natural extension of my work, and I feel honored to be part of their journeys toward self-discovery and empowerment.

My approach as a provider is deeply rooted in the belief that every individual is unique and capable of growth. I focus on reckoning with and building upon each person's strengths rather than simply addressing their challenges. I believe that when we recognize and celebrate what’s already working—whether it’s resilience, creativity, or even the small victories—it creates a foundation for deeper healing and transformation.I approach each client with compassion and affirmation, meeting them where they are in their journey. It's important to me that they feel seen, valued, and respected for who they truly are, rather than focusing solely on what they might perceive as flaws or struggles. I guide them in reconnecting with their inherent strengths, helping them realize their full potential. By reinforcing their strengths, clients gain the confidence to tackle their challenges, which empowers them to not only cope with life but to truly thrive.I also work within an affirming, strength-based framework that aligns with my commitment to creating a safe space for self-discovery. This means celebrating neurodiversity and working with clients to acknowledge and honor their individual experiences—whether that means embracing their neurodivergent traits or working to enhance self-acceptance.In addition to my professional focus, I’m also an advocate for neurodivergent individuals and am involved in affinity groups that promote understanding, inclusion, and accessibility for people on the autism spectrum and other neurodiverse groups. My dedication to these communities shapes the work I do and ensures that my approach is always rooted in empathy and an understanding of the unique challenges and strengths that neurodivergent clients bring.Ultimately, I believe that everyone has the capacity for change, growth, and self-empowerment. My role is to support my clients as they uncover their authentic selves and build on the strengths they already possess. It’s about guiding them to see what’s possible and helping them step into their full potential with confidence and compassion.