Present and Affirming Therapist - Handel Behavioral Health
Mental Health Blog

Present and Affirming Therapist

Interview with Lindsay Thompson, LMHC

January 10, 2025

Lindsay Thompson, Licensed Mental Health Counselor began her journey in the healthcare field wanting to be a physical therapist. She soon realized that her favorite part of working with people was not the exercises, but rather, the vulnerability that emerged in listening to clients and supporting them through their thoughts and feelings. 

“I’ll always meet clients where they’re at and be present with clients in their emotions,” says Lindsay.

Lindsay went on to earn her Masters Degree in Psychology and Mental Health Counseling from BayPath University and has worked as an outpatient therapist for six years. Her experiences include in-home therapy, family therapy, psychiatric crisis, emergency room settings, inpatient psychiatric, and experience in a hardware secure facility.

Lindsay specializes in working with Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, grief and loss, Major Depression, divorce/life transitions, and perfectionism/executive functioning issues. She also has experience working successfully with ADHD (Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder).

She cultivates an affirming and relational practice where clients are encouraged to be themselves while offering supportive guidance along the way. 

We sat down with Lindsay to learn more about her approach to working with clients online in Massachusetts or in-person from our office in West Springfield.

How would you describe your therapeutic style and approach?

My approach to therapy is person-centered, empathetic, and relational. 

I like to create a safe space where clients and I can be present and transparent with each other. I’ll listen intently to the clients thoughts and feelings while offering validation and feedback along the way. 

I believe there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. My use of therapeutic modalities depend on the clients’ lived experiences and personal goals. 

I may utilize psychoeducation to help clients better understand their mental health condition and symptoms they may be experiencing. By teaching clients various coping strategies to manage their symptoms, clients can take an active role in their healing.

I have extensive training in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), which may help clients gain greater awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in the here and now. I may also bring principles of mindfulness, meditation, and self-compassion practices into the work we do together.

How do you form safe and supportive relationships with clients?

Clients often tell me how much they appreciate my authenticity. Instead of trying to be the perfect professional, I just allow myself to be an empathic human being at the other end of the room or screen with clients. 

I’m always present with clients and accept them for who they are, while respecting their autonomy. No matter what clients are experiencing or where they are on their journey, I’m here to validate them and offer supportive guidance that may bring clients closer to their personal goals.

What mental health conditions and life challenges do you offer treatment for?

I’m here to support clients, ages 18-65+ who are experiencing:

What’s your favorite part of being a therapist?

I feel really honored when people open up to me about things they may not feel comfortable to talk about with others.

What advice would you offer to someone who’s curious about starting therapy?

There’s no rush to get anywhere or do anything right away. Therapy is an individual journey and it’s going to look different for everyone.

I encourage people to continue showing up for therapy, even when it’s challenging or seems like it’s not working, as it creates a dedicated practice of staying present with yourself and consistent with the healing process itself.

Start working with Lindsay Thompson, LMHC today:

Lindsay Thompson, LMHC is here to be with you through suffering, healing, moments of grief, joy, insight, and triumph. She will listen intently, offer support and validation, and guide you to your own unique goals.

To start working with Lindsay online in Massachusetts or in-person from our office in West Springfield, contact us today at (413) 343-4357.

About The Author

Nettie Hoagland Headshot

Nettie Hoagland is a writer with experience in local news reporting, nonprofit communications, and community development. She earned her bachelor of arts degree in Media Studies, Journalism, and Digital Arts from Saint Michael’s College in Vermont. Nettie believes in the healing power of the arts to create connection and community. She is passionate about using writing as an instrument for personal and social growth in the field of mental health. She is currently based in Brooklyn, NY.

Lindsay Thompson Headshot

Lindsay will be with you in your emotions and accept where you are. You may be seeking therapy for change, and wanting to find your path and what feels right to you. Or you might not know exactly what you need, but you know something is just not feeling right, and that is okay to not have all the answers right now. Lindsay is here to support you, offer guidance and help you reach your goals. More About Author →