Geralyn Marie Cleary LISW

During the first session, I like to get to know the issues that have led you to seek therapy along with any insight you have gained into what is helpful or not helpful for you. I want to answer any and all questions you may have about me or the process of therapy. This is a time for you to get to know a little about me and how we might work together. I want you to feel free to ask any questions and voice any opinions or concerns you may have.

My path to becoming a therapist was more like a calling for me. My mother had severe mental health issues and was in and out of hospital while I was growing up. As a child, I would find ways to try to get her to feel safe enough to open to me as she would not talk to anyone about these issues. I formed a very close bond with her as I got older and really feel like I was able to help her in some small, but very rewarding, ways. I feel like being a therapist is what I was meant to do with my life.

I would want someone to know that they are free to question or express any concerns while working with me. I want to know what is helpful to you and each individual is different. I want you to know that I am not easily offended and my goal is to be empathetic and helpful. I pride myself on being open-minded and keeping in touch with the problems of today's world. Lastly, I believe that laughter, even in difficult times, is healing.

• Ohio, Licensed Independent Social Worker, I.1800756

I began my career by working for community-based outpatient services for mental health substance use disorders serving primarily uninsured, low-income individuals. After graduate school, I moved into administrative positions serving as director of a women's residential treatment program and clinical manager for an urban minority drug and alcohol treatment program. Since 2016 I have been working as an independent therapist treating individuals for various mental health and substance use disorders.