Gwen Pontikes
LPC-MHSP, LADAC II
About Gwen
License #: LPC=MHSP #6717, LADAC II #1722Hello! I’m Gwen Pontikes, the dedicated therapist behind Therapy with Gwen, specializing in trauma and addiction. With experience in supporting clients facing mental health challenges and substance use disorders in residential settings, I bring a wealth of life experience to my therapy practice. My own journey through a childhood marked by addiction and codependence has shaped my approach to therapy. Having navigated my struggles with anxiety and depression, I’ve gained valuable insights into managing childhood dysfunction and overcoming unhealthy coping mechanisms. I also understand the complexities of supporting a loved one through addiction recovery, which inspired me to transition into a second career in counseling. Throughout my life, I have cared for my parents during their declining health and end-of-life issues, striving to balance my responsibilities to them, my spouse, my children, and myself in a healthy manner. The grief I faced from losing my parents has deepened my understanding of life’s emotional challenges, allowing me to offer compassionate support to my clients. I prioritize my own wellbeing as a therapist by seeking supervision and consultation, and I invest in my personal growth through therapy. This commitment helps me be the best therapist I can for my clients.
My Therapeutic Approach
I am a person-centered therapist who utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients review their thoughts for "accurate reflection." We often get bogged down by cognitive distortions, and it can be beneficial to review and reframe our thoughts, as these often dictate our mood and behaviors. I meet you where you are, and if it feels like a good fit, I incorporate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to support you with emotional regulation, mindfulness, effective interpersonal communication, and increasing your capacity to engage with uncomfortable feelings and situations. This approach can lead to significant long-term benefits. Leveraging my expertise in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and somatic developmental trauma therapy, our goal is not to change who you are - but to have you become more whole as a person. Together, we will establish clear goals, monitor your progress, and utilize your unique strengths to help you thrive. I am deeply committed to guiding you toward a meaningful and integrated life, addressing the complex landscapes of trauma and addiction with compassion and expertise. As an EMDR and somatic therapist, my focus is on helping you build adaptive thoughts and behaviors while acknowledging the realities of life's challenges and hardships. I will work with you to connect your thoughts, emotions, physical body, and spirit, enabling you to live as a fully integrated and whole person.
Who I Help Best
Clients I help best are individuals seeking to navigate the complexities of trauma and addiction, as well as those on a journey of personal growth and life transitions. They may struggle with symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, or depression, feel overwhelmed by their emotions or trapped in cycles of addiction. I support clients facing trauma by using EMDR therapy to help them reprocess painful memories in a safe environment. For those dealing with addiction, I share techniques to foster tools to fend off cravings and facilitate healthier coping mechanisms. Additionally, I work with individuals navigating significant life changes, helping them manage uncertainty and redefine identity or return to their true self. Clients who struggle with emotional dysregulation benefit from my guidance in developing skills for sitting with and at times releasing feelings. I support clients with a history of codependency, helping them establish healthy boundaries and prioritize their own needs. For clients interested in holistic integration, I connect thoughts, emotions, and physical health to promote overall well-being. Ultimately, my goal is to create a compassionate and empowering environment that facilitates meaningful change and a more integrated, fulfilling life for my clients. If you resonate with these challenges and are ready for transformation, I am here to help. I offer self-pay. Please do not hesitate to talk to me about a flexible/sliding scale fee plan if needed to pursue therapy.
What a First Session Is Like
The first therapy session is crucial for building rapport and understanding your needs. I begin with a warm welcome, ensuring that you feel comfortable while explaining what to expect during the session and emphasizing confidentiality. Engaging in casual conversation helps ease any initial anxiety, and I practice active listening to show that I value your experiences. I gather background information by asking about your personal history, trauma experiences, and any addiction challenges you may face, inviting you to share what brought you to therapy and your specific struggles. Together, we outline initial therapy goals, encouraging you to express what’s most important to address while recognizing your strengths and coping mechanisms. I explain the therapeutic modalities I use, such as EMDR, CBT and DBT, emphasizing that our approach will be tailored to your unique needs. If you express experiencing any distress, I address your concerns first and may introduce initial coping strategies to help you manage overwhelming emotions. As the session concludes, I will review key points, talk about scheduling future sessions, and offer encouragement, reinforcing that your decision to seek help is a significant step in your healing journey. I will encourage you to be honest and listen to your gut about our connection to work together. If you are unsure, I will encourage you to research other therapists and help you find the best counselor for you to work toward your goals!
Areas of Expertise
Populations Served
Office Location
Therapy Space - Midtown
210 25th Ave N
Nashville, TN 37203
Insurance & Fees
Session Rates
Individual Therapy
$150
per 50-minute session
Insurance Accepted
Frequently Asked Questions
Gwen specializes in Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Grief & Loss, PTSD & Trauma, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Stress Management, Family Therapy. I am a person-centered therapist who utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients review their thoughts for "accurate reflection." We often get bogged down by cognitive distortions, and it can be beneficial to review and reframe our thoughts, as these often dictate our mood and behaviors. I meet you where you are, and if it feels like a good fit, I incorporate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to support you with emotional regulation, mindfulness, effective interpersonal communication, and increasing your capacity to engage with uncomfortable feelings and situations. This approach can lead to significant long-term benefits. Leveraging my expertise in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and somatic developmental trauma therapy, our goal is not to change who you are - but to have you become more whole as a person. Together, we will establish clear goals, monitor your progress, and utilize your unique strengths to help you thrive. I am deeply committed to guiding you toward a meaningful and integrated life, addressing the complex landscapes of trauma and addiction with compassion and expertise. As an EMDR and somatic therapist, my focus is on helping you build adaptive thoughts and behaviors while acknowledging the realities of life's challenges and hardships. I will work with you to connect your thoughts, emotions, physical body, and spirit, enabling you to live as a fully integrated and whole person.
About Gwen Pontikes, LPC-MHSP, LADAC II
Gwen Pontikes is a licensed therapist (LPC-MHSP, LADAC II, License: LPC=MHSP #6717, LADAC II #1722) practicing in-person therapy at Therapy Space in Nashville, TN.Gwen specializes in Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Grief & Loss, PTSD & Trauma, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Stress Management, Family Therapy and accepts Self-Pay. Gwen is currently accepting new clients.Therapy Space provides private, HIPAA-compliant office spaces for mental health professionals.