MONICA Gabriela. WILLIAMS, MSW, LISW - Upper Arlington

she/her/hers

Monica Gabriella Williams is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) with extensive experience treating individuals presenting with disordered eating, body image distress, and related issues such as trauma, perfectionism, life transitions, and mood disorders. Ms. Williams strives to provide her clients with a judgement-free space for self-exploration and healing. She utilizes a variety of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO-DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Her goal is to bring her full self into each session to create a safe environment where clients can feel comfortable being authentic, fostering meaningful connections and empowering clients to make positive changes in their lives.

Ms. Williams received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (BA) with minors in Criminology and Italian Studies from the University of Kentucky and her Master of Social Work (MSW) from The Ohio State University (OSU). Her time at the University of Kentucky included research at the Social Hierarchies and Behavior Lab evaluating implicit biases and participating in educational opportunities with nonprofit organizations in Cape Town, South Africa. While in Lexington, she served as a Crisis Counselor and sexual assault advocate for the Bluegrass Rape Crisis Center. Her graduate training and education included providing clinical services through OSU’s Counseling and Consultation Services.

Ms. Williams has worked in high-level care settings, most notably at The Emily Program, where she honed her expertise in treating eating disorders. Her work includes both individual and group therapy, with a focus on creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their vulnerabilities and embrace their authentic selves.

Clinical Interests/Focus: Women's Behavioral Health, Teen Girls, Disordered Eating, Body Image Distress, Self-Esteem and Self-Criticism, Perfectionism, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Trauma