Question 1

Why did you decide to become a counselor?

Accepted Answer

Chris became a therapist because he believes no one should have to navigate pain alone. Seeing the strength in others, even when they don’t see it themselves, inspired him to create a safe space for healing. He understands how trauma, grief, and anxiety can feel isolating, and his passion is helping clients reclaim their sense of self, find hope, and move forward with confidence.

Question 2

What types of clients do you work with best?

Accepted Answer

Chris works best with clients who feel lost in their trauma, grief, depression, or anxiety and are searching for a safe space to heal. Whether they feel stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about the future, he helps them navigate their emotions with patience and understanding. Chris connects deeply with those ready to rebuild their sense of self, regain confidence, and take steps—big or small—toward a better quality of life.

Question 3

What type of clients are you most excited to work with?

Accepted Answer

Chris is most excited to work with clients who may feel stuck in their healing journey but are open to exploring new ways to reclaim their strength. He finds deep fulfillment in helping those navigating trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety rediscover their resilience. Whether they’re taking their first step or continuing their journey, Chris is honored to walk alongside them with warmth and understanding.

Question 4

What's one thing you wish all clients knew?

Accepted Answer

Chris wishes every client knew that no matter how broken, lost, or overwhelmed they feel, they are never beyond healing. Everyone deserves a space where they can feel safe to open up without fear or judgment. No struggle is too small or too big—what matters is that you're here, and you don’t have to go through it alone. Healing takes time, but you are worth every step of the journey.

Question 5

Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?

Accepted Answer

Chris chose to practice at Thriveworks because of the strong sense of community and support—not just for clients, but for counselors, too. Here, no one is alone. The team collaborates, learns from one another, and provides guidance when faced with tough cases, ensuring the best care for clients. At Thriveworks, both clients and counselors have a network of support, making healing a shared journey.

Question 6

What inspires you?

Accepted Answer

Chris is inspired by the resilience of the human spirit—the way people can face pain, loss, and uncertainty yet still find the strength to keep going. He is moved by the courage it takes to open up, to heal, and to reclaim one’s life. Every small step a client takes toward healing reminds him why he does this work: because no one should have to walk their journey alone.

Question 7

What can clients expect in their first session with you?

Accepted Answer

Walking into your first session with Chris feels like a mix of comfort, relief, and maybe even a little laughter. He believes healing doesn’t have to feel heavy all the time—there’s space for lightness, even in the toughest moments. You’ll start by getting to know each other, easing into the conversation with warmth and even a joke or two. As the session unfolds, you’ll explore what brought you here in a way that feels safe and at your own pace. Chris will meet you with understanding, helping you navigate the hard stuff without feeling alone. By the end of the session, you’ll leave with a sense of relief—maybe even a smile—knowing you have a safe place to return to, where healing happens one step at a time.

Question 8

What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?

Accepted Answer

In the first session, Chris wants every client to feel safe, heard, and understood. His goal is to create a space where you can take a deep breath, let your guard down, and know you’re not alone. He focuses on building trust, easing any anxiety about starting therapy, and helping you feel comfortable sharing at your own pace. By the end, you’ll leave with a sense of relief, a clearer path forward, and the reassurance that you have someone walking alongside you on your journey.

Question 9

What should clients know about you before scheduling a first counseling session?

Accepted Answer

Before scheduling a session, clients should know that Chris creates a space where healing and humor go hand in hand. He believes therapy doesn’t have to feel intimidating, and sometimes, the worst dad joke can lighten even the heaviest moments. Don’t be surprised if you leave with a terrible joke stuck in your head—one so bad you’ll have to share it. Chris brings warmth, understanding, and a down-to-earth approach, making therapy feel like a safe, supportive, and even enjoyable part of your journey.

Question 10

What do you do for fun/on your time off?

Accepted Answer

When Chris isn’t spending time with his family, you’ll probably find him deep in a game of chess—morning, noon, and night. Chess isn’t just a hobby; it’s a way to slow down, focus, and find calm in the chaos. He even brings chess into sessions, offering clients the chance to play while they talk, creating a relaxed, grounding atmosphere. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, he’s always up for a game!

Question 11

What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?

Accepted Answer

For Chris, balance and serenity define him both in and out of the therapy room. Whether it's through a game of chess, spending time with family, or finding peace in the little moments, he believes in staying grounded even when life feels chaotic. He brings this same sense of calm into his sessions, helping clients find their own balance as they navigate their healing journey.

Christopher Sivik