Gary Olson, MSW, LICSW
Independent Contractor
Therapy for ages 12+.
Hi, I’m Gary Olson.
I provide online and in-person therapy at our Wayzata location. I work with children (ages 12+) and adults (18 to 40) who are facing a variety of mental health challenges and life transitions. I specialize in helping individuals navigate life changes, ADHD, high-functioning autism, foster care and adoption, depression, anxiety, and parent-child conflicts. I also enjoy working with sports and career performance.
I am passionate about helping clients improve their lives and become the person they know they can be. My goal is to empower you to stop feeling overwhelmed or hopeless by providing the tools to make the right decisions at the moments they matter most. Whether you’re facing everyday stressors or more complex life situations, I’m here to support you in discovering growth and resilience on your journey.
My Journey to Becoming a Therapist
Like many of my clients, I’ve had my share of ups and downs. I believe that while life will always bring challenges, how we respond makes the difference in how we move forward. No one should face everything alone, and having support can make all the difference.
In our sessions, I respect and welcome your unique viewpoint and life experiences. Your story is entirely your own, and I look forward to working together as you learn, grow, and progress.
How I Help People Make Lasting Changes
What I love most about this work is guiding clients toward finding joy in life, even after facing obstacles.
My goal is for you to understand yourself better, explore what has shaped you, and identify the changes you want to make.
I’m here to provide you with a safe and welcoming space. I connect naturally with people, helping them feel comfortable and safe, and I strive to meet you where you’re at while offering thoughtful insights and support.
What Sessions Will Be Like
In our sessions, we’ll explore family stories, life’s challenges, successes, and strengths. We’ll tailor each session to your goals, with an emphasis on making this journey fully yours. My role is to support you in uncovering and navigating any roadblocks together.
- You deserve to live your best life and find happiness.
- There is no shame in anything that has happened to you.
- Healing requires deep conversations, understanding, and commitment.
- Therapy is for anyone who is engaged and open in their approach.
- Change happens when you open yourself to who you are, allowing you to become who you want to be.
My Professional Background
I have over 25 years of experience in mental health case management, foster care social work, in-home skills building, outpatient therapy, clinical supervision, and director-level leadership.
Education
B.S. Minnesota State University, Mankato
M.S.W. University of Minnesota
Licensure
LICSW (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker)
Whether you’re working through a specific issue or navigating a complex journey, I am here to help you discover your potential.
Let's Discover How I Can Help
Start living in the moment and enjoying your life.
