Allen Gholston, LCSW - Therapist in Tennessee

About Allen

Allen Gholston is a licensed clinical social worker who helps people facing stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, trauma, and related concerns. They make space for issues tied to identity and sexuality, including LGBT and gender dysphoria topics. Allen uses straightforward, respectful care and asks simple questions to find what matters most to each person.

Clients can expect a calm, nonjudgmental tone and practical steps to manage problems day to day.

Background and approach

Allen emphasizes listening first, then working with each person to set small, achievable goals. Sessions focus on what the client needs now rather than one-size-fits-all plans. With 20 years of experience and the Licensed Clinical Social Worker credential (LCSW), Allen draws on several therapy styles.

They commonly use client-centered work, cognitive behavioral techniques, dialectical behavior strategies, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing. These methods help with symptoms like low mood, worry, anger, and difficulties related to substance use. Allen has worked with people dealing with chronic illness, body image, co-occurring conditions, personality or mood disorders, and trauma.

They also address workplace stress, midlife transitions, prejudice and discrimination, and compassion fatigue for caregivers. Sessions are offered in English and Allen practices from Tennessee. International clients are accepted.

The focus is on clear communication and steady progress, with the therapist guiding each person toward practical coping skills and better day-to-day functioning.

How Allen’s approaches translate to online therapy

Client-Centered Therapy means the therapist follows the client’s lead and focuses on what the person says matters. It is about active listening and shaping sessions around the client’s priorities, which helps when dealing with grief, identity, or life changes.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, teaches practical skills for changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. It is useful for anxiety, depression, mood symptoms, and coping with stressful situations. Sessions include exercises and steps a person can practice between meetings.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or DBT, adds tools for managing strong emotions and improving relationships. It offers clear skills for distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and better communication when feelings run high.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. Allen will talk with each person about their goals and try methods that fit their needs and preferences. Decisions about which techniques to use happen together and can change as progress is made.

Online therapy offers flexibility through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging. These formats make it easier to fit sessions into busy lives, keep momentum between meetings, and use different ways of communicating when that helps. Licensed professionals can deliver the same kinds of skills and support online, making consistent care more accessible for people in Tennessee and beyond.

Client-Centered Therapy

The direction comes from you rather than from a set programme. The therapist offers a warm, non-judgemental space to think out loud and work at your own pace. Online, this rests on the relationship rather than on being in the same room.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT looks at the link between what you think, how you feel, and what you do. You work on noticing unhelpful patterns and practising steadier responses. It suits online sessions well, because much of the work happens between appointments and can be talked through from anywhere.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Concrete skills for riding out strong emotion, tolerating distress, and handling relationships without things escalating. The skills are practised in daily life, so between-session support by message or phone fits naturally.

Frequently asked questions

What kinds of concerns does Allen work with?

Allen addresses stress, anxiety, addictions, depression, grief, trauma and related issues. Their list also includes concerns about identity, body image, chronic illness, and career or life transitions.

What is the general approach in sessions?

Sessions are client-centered and practical. Allen listens first, then helps set small goals and teaches techniques to manage symptoms day to day.

How much experience does this therapist have?

Allen has 20 years of experience and has worked with a wide range of clinical concerns over that time. They became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker after completing a masters in social work.

What credentials and location should I know about?

Allen holds the LCSW credential with documentation MS LCSW C10110 and TN LCSW 6098 and practices in Tennessee.

Which languages and international options are available?

Sessions are offered in English and Allen accepts international clients.

What session formats are offered?

Allen provides video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging to suit different preferences and needs.

How does pricing work?

Cost varies with location and therapist arrangements; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.

How do I begin working with Allen?

To get started, select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule based on therapist availability.

Specialties and expertise

Top specialties

Also works with

Therapeutic approaches

Experience: 20 years
Licensed: Tennessee, Mississippi
Languages: English

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