Jamie Gardner, MA, CSW, Clinical Intern
Jamie Gardner is a clinical social work intern at Midwest Encouragement Counseling Center, currently completing her Master of Social Work at the University of Nebraska Omaha. She holds a bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Nebraska at Kearney and a Master of Human Services Administration. Jamie is a Certified Social Worker (CSW) and provides clinical services as part of her graduate training.
Jamie brings more than 26 years of experience working with individuals and families. Her professional background includes hospital social work, providing support to college students, and extensive experience in the field of adoption, where she has supported pregnant and parenting women, birth parents, adoptive families, and individuals who are adopted. This experience has given her an appreciation for the complex emotions and relationships involved for all members in the adoption circle, including the Seven Core Issues in Adoption, identity and culture, infertility, grief, and loss.
Jamie enjoys working with women as they navigate life transitions, including pregnancy and postpartum, changing family roles, menopause, and empty nesting. She also has an interest in supporting those experiencing stress, burnout, depression, anxiety, attachment concerns, and challenges with self-esteem.
Her clinical training includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Process Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Jamie uses an integrative and collaborative approach that considers the connection between the mind and body, emotions, relationships, and the broader social environment. She works alongside individuals and families to develop greater self-understanding, build on existing strengths, and identify meaningful steps toward change.
Jamie strives to create a welcoming, affirming, and empowering environment where people feel heard, respected, and supported as they work toward their goals.