Dr. Tom Gaus, Psy.D.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Denver, Colorado specializing in treating adults and teens with anxiety and OCD. I am also a co-owner and the practice manager at Anxiety Solutions of Denver. I am passionate and excited by the work I get to do with my clients. I was lucky enough to train under some amazing clinicians who worked in settings specifically devoted to anxiety and OCD treatment throughout my doctoral training. Through those experiences, I developed a well-rounded understanding of those disorders, discovered my talent in providing anxiety and OCD treatment, and gained a deep appreciation for how effective anxiety and OCD treatment can be in changing peoples’ lives for the better. For me, there is nothing more rewarding than walking alongside my clients as they connect with their inner-strength and conquer their fears. I also honor that walking alongside my clients is a privilege that requires trust. Developing genuine, meaningful relationships is a core value of mine and is what led me into the field of psychology. I therefore feel extremely fortunate that I get to engage in the process of connecting with and understanding the individuals I work with as they find long-term relief from their suffering.

I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from The University of Tulsa, where I also played soccer. After graduating, I moved back to my home town of St. Louis, Missouri where I worked for one year as a Case Manager for youth in the foster care system. I then received my Master’s and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Spalding University in Louisville, KY. During my time in Louisville, I completed practice placements at StongMinds Psychology, Community Catholic Center, Indiana University Southeast Counseling and Psychological Services, the Louisville OCD Clinic, and the Kentucky Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders.

When I’m not working, you can find me fishing, camping, golfing, skiing, listening to music, playing guitar, or searching for Denver’s best beer, wings, pizza, and burgers. I am an avid learner of new skills and hobbies, which I have found are never-ending in Colorado. My wife and I could not be more in love with what this place has to offer.

What would your clients say about you as a therapist?

I think most of my clients would describe me as personable, informal, nonjudgmental, genuine, honest, and someone who has a sense of humor. I believe I can establish a connection with just about anyone and create an environment where people can be their most vulnerable selves without worrying about being judged. Anything and everything is on the table. I think most of my clients are surprised that laughter takes place in many of our sessions. I believe and hope that my clients feel genuinely cared for by me, because I tend to care deeply for the people I work with. I think my clients would say that I do not shy away from hard conversations, as I have found them essential to growth and true connection. Lastly, I believe my clients would say that I am knowledgeable about and confident in my abilities to understand and treat people with anxiety disorders and OCD while doing so in a manner that feels approachable.

Do you have any pets?

Sadly, no. I have wanted a dog for the longest time but our landlord hasn’t allowed it. My wife and I are moving at the end of this year and might be more excited about getting a dog than buying our first home.

What is your dream vacation?

I’m really going to nerd out on this one. I prefer the mountains over the beach every day of the week, but will take both when I can. I also love seclusion and quiet with the option of being social and active. Therefore, I would love to start my dream vacation on the Southern coast of Italy where I can explore the food, culture, and beauty it has to offer. I’d maybe do some cliff diving and snorkeling while I’m there. After a few days of that, I would make my way up to Switzerland where my wife and I would stay in a little rustic cabin in the woods away from fellow vacationers. I’d wake up every morning before the sun, go fly fish in some remote stream, and come home to make coffee and cook a full breakfast before a day of exploring the Swiss Alps.

Do you have a guilty pleasure?

Researching my dream guitars and plotting a way for me to buy them one day.

What is a weird fact about you that most people wouldn’t know?

I was once clotheslined by a clothes line.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

Playing 4 years of college soccer despite it not going as I would have liked.

What are your favorite hobbies?

Exploring and sharing music with friends and family, fly fishing, golfing, playing guitar, camping, having a beer with friends, doing literally anything with my wife and family

What’s your favorite movie?

Sandlot

What is your favorite TV show?

Severance or Breaking Bad

IKON or Epic?

IKON

What is your favorite video game?

Mario Kart on Wii

Do you play an instrument?

Yes – guitar

What is your favorite type of food?

Japanese

What is your favorite sports team?

St. Louis Blues and Liverpool

Where are you from?

St. Louis, Missouri