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Fanchen Gao, M.S.

Practicum Trainee
Pronouns: he/him/his


As your therapist, I deeply value and respect students’ feelings, experiences, and the words you use to describe them. My foremost aim is to cultivate a warm and safe environment where you feel at ease sharing your unique stories and feelings. My passion lies in working collaboratively with individuals, and I am dedicated to fostering and promoting the well-being of our community, both through hands-on therapy and evidence-based research. Your journey to mental and emotional well-being is paramount, and I am here to support you every step of the way.

Fluent in Mandarin, Chinese. 

Chen is a third-year Counseling Psychology doctoral candidate at Tennessee State University. As an international student from China, Chen’s journey in the U.S. spans six enriching years, deepening his understanding of diverse cultures, which he brings to his therapeutic practice. He graduated from Marquette University, where he earned his M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Professionally, Chen has been refining his skills for the past four years, working with a wide age spectrum, ranging from adolescents to elders. With an extensive training background in CBT and DBT, Chen leans towards a client-centered approach in his practice, always prioritizing the unique needs and experiences of each individual. His prior roles include interning at Rogers Behavioral Health and serving the Grafton & West Bend, Wisconsin community as a mental health therapist. Today, he is a Licensed Professional Counselor in training, with previous experience as a Substance Abuse Counselor in training. Chen enjoys engaging with college students and young adults, primarily focusing on addressing challenges related to depression, anxiety, and OCD.

Beyond his professional role, Chen enjoys outdoor activities. He’s a keen hiker, rock climber, and fitness enthusiast. These self-care activities not only keep him physically fit but also mentally agile. He believes that interpersonal interactions act as a rejuvenating force, recharging his spirit and passion for his work.