Chris Watkins
New therapist

Chris Watkins

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

·LICSW, MSW
New therapist
Amherst, WI, United States
$150 - $175
Accepting clients

About

Starting therapy can be absolutely daunting. With so many variables, I've deferred to what many people have known for a long time: "The Relationship Matters Most". Great therapy begins with the connection. I am a 40 year old, transracial adoptee raised outside of Boston. I have four wonderful children. Life experience has taught me to be curious and supportive of individuals as they explore themselves. I enjoy working with people who want to get to know themselves on a deeper level and work towards mentalizing others. I enjoy working with folks who are brave enough to show up to therapy. It's an incredible first step. Utilizing psychodynamic therapy, I will work diligently to highlight strengths, shore up defenses, and slowly explore choices so people can have more control and engagement in their life. This doesn't always mean finding a solution, and often starts with naming difficult emotions in a way that is safe/safer. Ultimately, creating acceptance for ourselves. Individuals can come to therapy with a plan, and will often coach providers with what they need. I am focused on starting this journey together so that I can hear and explore your needs. Whether you are resourcefully practiced at naming them, or struggle to find your voice. I hope to follow your lead, and am inspired that you took the first step to show up.

"I mainly offer a relationally based talk therapy, that works to co-create an examination of yourself within therapy and relationships in your life. You can expect curiosity, emotional reflection, and validation within the therapeutic process. I am also interested in supporting folks with understanding Somatic Regulation, and navigating periods of distress in their body."

I work with

Couples
Couples
Family
Family
Individual
Individual

Age groups

Adults
Adults
Children
Children
Seniors
Seniors
Teens
Teens

Specialties

Areas of Focus

ADHDAdoptionAnger Management
AnxietyAutism SpectrumBody PositivityChild or AdolescentDepressionDevelopmental DisordersDual DiagnosisFamily ConflictIntellectual DisabilityMen's IssuesOpen Relationships Non-MonogamyPeer RelationshipsRacial IdentityRelationship IssuesSex-Positive, Kink AlliedSubstance UseTransgenderTrauma and PTSDVideo Game AddictionWeight Loss

Therapeutic Approaches

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Psychodynamic Therapy
Family Systems Therapy
Solution-Focused Therapy
Narrative Therapy
Attachment-based
Culturally Sensitive
Emotionally Focused
Person-Centered
Relational
Strength Based
Trauma Focused
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Somatic
Interpersonal
Motivational Interviewing
Play Therapy
Compassion Focused
Existential
Multicultural
Jungian

Services & Pricing

Free Consultation

15 min · Online, In Person

Free

Individual Therapy

50 min · Online, In Person

$150

Sliding scale available.

Couples Therapy

50 min · Online, In Person

$175

Sliding scale available.

Qualifications

CALM AT HOME

Verified by Calm at Home

Licensed · LICSW, MSW

Chris Watkins · Verified March 2026

Education and Years in Practice

Attended Smith College School for Social Work, in

Additional Credentials

Membership from ASWB MA

2019

Insurance & Policies

Accepts insurance

I am in network with the above insurance agencies, and in the process of finalizing insurance with MassHealth, Medicare and Wellsense.

Payment Methods

Cash
Check
PayPal
Venmo
Wire

Location

Primary

Essential Psychotherapy

Amherst, WI, 01002

United States

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Essential Psychotherapy

East Street

South Hadley, MA, 01075

United States

View on map
UTC (UTC)

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My Practice at a Glance

Available both in-person and online

Amherst, WI, 01002 map

"

I mainly offer a relationally based talk therapy, that works to co-create an examination of yourself within therapy and relationships in your life. You can expect curiosity, emotional reflection, and validation within the therapeutic process. I am also interested in supporting folks with understanding Somatic Regulation, and navigating periods of distress in their body.

I see couples, family and individual
$150 - $175 Per Session
Accepts insurance

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