Chris Lawler, MSW, LICSW, LADC
Licensed Graduate Social Worker
Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor
I believe that individuals seeking help for substance use struggles are hoping to find a place where they can receive genuine empathy, safety and collaboration. Sharing our deepest struggles with supportive people, and the events that come along with making positive change, can be a greatly transformative experience. I approach my work with substance and mental health disorders from a relational, person-centered, humanistic, bio-psycho-social, motivational interviewing and trauma informed perspective, and often incorporate components of cognitive behavioral therapy and relapse prevention. I also appreciate the use of humor, novelty, mindfulness and creativity in my work with individuals as they develop new skills and build new communities for themselves. I feel it’s important to provide a good base of education about the intersection of mental health and substance use disorders while in treatment, along with approaches to maintaining ongoing support after completion of treatment.
I've enjoyed a career working with both youth and adults who struggle with substance use and mental health disorders in community, school and clinic-based settings. Areas of expertise have included work with co-occurring disorders, difficult life transitions, anxiety, grief and loss, complex trauma and relapse prevention.
I completed the Addictions Studies Program (LADC) at Metropolitan State University and my Master of Social Work at Augsburg University. I hold certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as a Certified Specialist in Anger Management, and I’ve completed the International Gambling Counselor Certification (IGCCB) Level II training.
I look forward to being a collaborative partner with anyone I have the privilege to work with, and I’m happy to answer any questions you may have before scheduling. Recovery is an exciting place!
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Every member of our team is here to help you overcome drug, gambling and alcohol addiction. We emphasize prompt service, with chemical health evaluations that can be scheduled 6 days a week.
