Demystifying Therapy: Strengths, Anxiety, and the Courage to Grow w/ Aaron Gilbert
In this installment of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek welcomes Aaron Gilbert, LICSW, a licensed independent clinical social worker with more than 30 years of experience helping individuals manage anxiety, depression, and related mental health challenges. Aaron is the founder of Boston Evening Counseling Associates and approaches therapy as a collaborative, trust-based process grounded in strengths-based, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and positive psychology. Together, they break down common misconceptions about therapy, exploring why it’s not about quick fixes or having all the answers, but about creativity, honesty, and courage. Aaron explains what positive psychology really means in practice, how focusing on strengths and small wins can build momentum for change, and why therapy should be viewed as an intentional act of growth rather than a last resort.
The conversation dives into anxiety and depression, clarifying the difference between healthy worry and anxiety disorders, why depression can’t simply be “snapped out of,” and how treatment adapts to each individual. Dr. Meek and Aaron also explore attachment theory and separation anxiety, including how attachment styles form, how they affect adult relationships, and how people can move toward greater emotional security and resilience. This thoughtful and compassionate episode offers clarity, hope, and empowerment for anyone curious about therapy or seeking meaningful next steps toward emotional well-being.
About Aaron Gilbert: Aaron Gilbert is a licensed independent clinical social worker with more than 30 years of experience of helping clients manage anxiety disorders. He founded Boston Evening Counseling Associates in Brighton, Massachusetts, in 2007 with the belief that good therapy is always a collaboration between client and therapist that requires creativity, energy, and most importantly, trust. His approach is influenced by training and experience in strengths-based, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused and positive psychology.