Gail Oakes

Gail Oakes

Gail Oakes is our Counselor.

Gail is excited about the opportunity to be at Door of Hope and prays that Jesus will use her as He brings hope, healing and restoration. Gail’s life verse from John 17:4 as Jesus identifies His life purpose fuels her passion. “I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do”.

Gail has been previously licensed as an Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR) and as a master’s level Licensed Psychologist, MA, LP.  Gail is intensively trained in Cognitive Behavioral Skills including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Systems Training for Emotional Predictability and Problem Solving (STEPPS). She is experienced in working with persons with depression, bipolar, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, personality disorders, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, and substance abuse.

Gail received degrees from; the University of Minnesota (BS in occupational therapy), Syracuse University, (MPA in Public Administration), and Bethel University, (MA in Counseling Psychology). She worked for 24 years at Hennepin County Medical Center in the William Jepson Day Treatment program, Mood and Personality Disorder Track. Her work history also includes 5 years at Syracuse Veterans Hospital, as an OT with CVA, brain injury, neurological and physical disorders, and 8 years at Northland Counseling, leading CBT groups, individual, couples, and Biblical counseling.

Gail is married with 2 adult children, three adult stepchildren, and five grandchildren. Her interests include walking, bicycling, swimming, fishing, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. She volunteers with Stephens Ministry, Discipleship Ministry, youth mentoring, Decision Point, Compassion International, Samaritans Purse Operation Christmas Child, World Vision, and missions/outreach teams.

Gail is passionate about integrating Biblical truth and coping skills to regulate emotions, to challenge distorted thinking, and to engage in effective behaviors.

Gail can be reached at gail@doorofhopeministries.org or 763-767-2150