Gretchen Shay
Licensed clinical social worker guiding meaningful change
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About
Gretchen Shay is a licensed clinical social worker authorized to practice in both Alabama and Illinois, with 14 years of experience working as a social worker and therapist. She has supported children, adolescents, and adults facing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting difficulties, addiction and co-dependency, interventions, and complex family dynamics. She also has experience assisting people navigating medical diagnoses and supporting their caregivers from diagnosis through end-of-life care, including grief and loss therapy.
Her therapeutic approach is warm and interactive, rooted in respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and she avoids stigmatizing labels. She integrates cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and rational-emotive methods, adapting conversations and treatment plans to the unique needs of each client.
Gretchen believes taking the first steps toward a more satisfying and balanced life requires courage, and she aims to support and empower clients through that process. She looks forward to working with new clients and helping them pursue meaningful change.
- Location:
- Alabama, United States
- Years Experience:
- 14
- Gender:
- Female
- Languages Spoken:
- English
- Therapist of Color:
- No
- Communication Options:
- Phone • Video • Live Chat • Messaging
Specialties
Primary area of focus:Addictions, Depression, Eating, Family, Stress, Anxiety
Other areas of experience: Abandonment, Attachment issues, Blended family issues, Body image, Cancer, Codependency, Commitment issues, Compassion fatigue, Compulsion, Coping with life changes, Dependent personality, Divorce, Family of origin issues, Forgiveness, Gambling, Grief, Hoarding, Hospice and end-of-life counseling, Infidelity, Obsession, OCD, Parenting, Porn, Relationship, Relationship, Self esteem, Self-harm, Separation, Social anxiety and phobia, Trauma and abuse, Trichotillomania, Women’s issues, Workplace issues, Young adult issues
Credentials & Verification
- Credentials: AL LICSW 4865C, IL LCSW 149013908
- NPI Number: 1962731968
- License: LICSW (Alabama) #4865C exp 2027-09-30 • LCSW (Illinois) #149013908 exp 2025-11-30
Is Online Therapy the Right Step Toward Better Mental Health?
Many people wonder whether online therapy can truly help. For common concerns such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or navigating life changes, online therapy has been shown to be just as effective as traditional in-person sessions.
One major benefit is flexibility - clients can connect in the format that fits their schedule and comfort level, whether by video call, phone session, live chat, or in-app messaging. That flexibility often makes it easier to integrate therapy into a busy life.
All participating clinicians are licensed professionals, and clients have the option to switch therapists at any time if they prefer a different fit. For many people, online therapy offers an accessible, effective route to support and growth.
How much experience does Gretchen Shay have?
Gretchen Shay has 14 years of experience providing therapy services.
Is Gretchen Shay a licensed therapist?
Yes, Gretchen Shay is a licensed therapist with AL LICSW 4865C, IL LCSW 149013908.
In which languages does Gretchen Shay provide therapy?
Gretchen Shay provides therapy in English.
Where is Gretchen Shay located?
Gretchen Shay is located in Alabama.
How can I work with Gretchen Shay as my therapist?
You can work with Gretchen Shay through Phone • Video • Live Chat • Messaging.
How much does therapy with Gretchen Shay cost?
The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist’s availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, just click the ‘Start Therapy’ button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started with Gretchen Shay is quick and straightforward. Just click the ‘Start Therapy’ button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.