Welcome to a new adventure! You are taking the next positive step on your journey. That's how it works, you take one healthy step at a time… and eventually you find yourself closer and closer to where you want to be. You begin to connect more with your strengths and gifts and finally you start to feel more at peace. I look forward to starting this journey with you. It is not always an easy journey, but it is one worth taking and you never have to go it alone. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) in Montana. I received an Associate of Arts degree with distinction at Casper College in Wyoming, a Bachelor of Arts degree with honor at the University of Wyoming in 1995, and a Master of Science degree with honors in Community Counseling at Montana State University/Billings in 2004 . I love empowering my clients using various therapeutic and cognitive behavioral approaches. I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with mental health, addiction, and co-occurring disorders. I have worked in the counseling field for over 20 years. I have worked in an inpatient treatment facility for almost 8 years as well as residential and outpatient centers. I enjoy working with adults, couples, families, youth, and have facilitated crisis mediations as well as individual, group and family therapy. I have addressed issues related to self- esteem, parenting, addiction, tobacco cessation, family dynamics, codependency, anger management, depression, anxiety, and trauma utilizing evidenced-based strategies including effective communication skills, self-compassion, meditation, mindfulness, relationship building skills, forgiveness, and conflict resolution. I have created several original materials to assist in the therapeutic process and to best fit my client’s needs. I utilize a solution focused approach building from a person’s strengths and utilizing a variety of value-based techniques to assist my clients in achieving a healthier and more fulfilled life. I am certified in Problem Solving Treatment and have taught various parenting classes including Love and Logic. I love the outdoors i.e. camping, hiking, taking my dog on an adventure and just soaking it all in. I have two wonderful adult sons and 4 beautiful grandchildren. I enjoy photography and I have started a few new hobbies with metal forging/blacksmithing, jewelry/beading, and painting. I am available for sessions most days (usually not Saturdays) and also upon request as my schedule allows. You can chose your preference for Video Sessions, Live (message) Chats, or Phone Sessions. If you need a session on the same day, let me know and I will put you on the cancellation list or I will try to fit you in a slot. Don't hesitate to ask and I will do my best to accommodate if at all possible at the available time. In the meantime, feel free to message anytime 24/7. Basically, it is what you are most comfortable with and at your own pace. I generally can respond at least once per morning and once per evening, sometimes more! You are also welcome to try the journal feature, and can keep the entries private for your own use or you can choose to share any entry with me that you feel comfortable sharing and you can change or delete what you want to share at anytime. Please remember that BetterHelp is not appropriate if you are in crisis or in immediate need of support. In crisis situations, please call 911 or local emergency services. You can also call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to talk to someone right away or for a Crisis Text Line text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the United States, anytime, about any type of crisis.

I earned my bachelor’s in Social work from the University of Montana in 1996. Since that time, in 2003, I earned my Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW. I have over 20 years of experience working with patients of all ages. I have clinical experience with outpatient, intensive outpatient and psychological inpatient. I believe in a person-centered counseling approach where my clients can feel a sense of respect and autonomy. I also have experience as a medical social worker that enhances my ability to work with comorbid diseases. l am well versed with cognitive behavioral therapies such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, DBT, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ACT. I also offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) for clients suffering from anxiety, panic, PTSD, or trauma. In addition, I utilize motivational interviewing skills, rational emotive behavioral therapy, and I have experience working with addictions. Furthermore, with addictions comes co-occurring disorders and I have had the privilege of working with that population for years. Your goals are what are important to me and will be the foundation of our therapeutic journey. I understand that it can be difficult to ask for help and I recognize the courage that it takes. No matter what struggle you are facing, I hope it is one that we can work on together!

At some point in our life, we all face the unexpected, whether it be the loss of someone important, a job, financial struggles, pain and sickness, or any of the other things life throws our way. It is helpful to have someone to talk to and offer a listening ear and perhaps some different perspective during those times. I hope to provide those things to my clients, as well as utilizing my experience and training to help others through the tough times. 2 Corinthians 1:4 I tend to be client centered, meeting clients where they are and help them reach where they want to go.

I am licensed in Montana with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I have worked in several settings (private practice, mental health centers, family-based services, juvenile, and adult corrections, dual diagnosis (alcohol/drugs, clinical syndromes, clinical personality patterns), psychiatric. Several of my mentors were rational-emotive therapists. My personal passions are high-level fitness (weight lifting, running, biking), wildlife advocacy. I have been a horseman/rancher and have horse-related activities./business. I like hiking, especially in Glacier. Yellowstone, the Bob Marshall Wilderness. I am a veteran.

I have been a therapist for almost 10 years. I graduated from Walla Walla University in Missoula Montana in 2013. I specialize in CBT, mindfulness practices, solution-focused therapy and trauma focused CBT. I work with a wide range of mental health issues including mood disorders, interpersonal effectiveness, attachment and relational issues.

I have 19 years experience working with all different types of people. I use many different treatment methods, geared towards what works for you. My style is to be honest and real with people. I am not judgmental and believe many people are too hard on themselves. You choose what you are comfortable with. Do you want homework or just to work in therapy? Often treatments are combined such as DBT and CBT. We may work on mindfulness along with journaling as a way to get in touch with feelings. I use DBT on a daily basis so i know it works. Mindfulness is an important factor in treatment. I will ask questions in order to discover what you need. I see issues as a challenge to discovering what works for you. I also believe that you need to do things to make yourself happy. Volunteer, join a book club, it is important to keep yourself active.

I am licensed in Montana with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

As a licensed therapist in Montana, I bring nearly two decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on creating affirming, supportive spaces for clients navigating social anxiety, trauma recovery, and life transitions. I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ communities, veterans, and older adults, offering trauma-informed care that honors each person's unique journey. My approach integrates evidence-based practices to help clients develop resilience, process challenging experiences, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. With expertise in addressing stress, anxiety, addiction, and trauma, I'm committed to walking alongside my clients with empathy, respect, and genuine understanding. My goal is to empower individuals to discover their inner strengths and create positive, sustainable change.

Ben grew up in Montana, where he took full advantage of the fresh air, mountains, and outdoor activities. He loved school and sports, and he played high school basketball, as well as American Legion and college baseball as a starting pitcher. Ben moved to Illinois to pursue his graduate degree at Northern Illinois University. It was during his training at NIU that he first discovered his passion for working with people struggling with OCD and Anxiety-related disorders. He subsequently devoted his career to becoming an expert in the application of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Exposure and Response Prevention as means for helping individuals get their lives back from these debilitating problem areas. Ben also treats co-occurring conditions such as depression, and tics/Tourette's. Ben is a member of the International OCD Foundation, and The TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors. He has completed advanced training through both the General and Pediatric installments of the IOCDF’s Behavioral Therapy Training Institute, and TLC’s Professional Training Institute. Ben places high value on making sure he is providing the most up-to-date treatments available. He is skilled in adapting his treatment methods to each individual who seeks help from him. Ben's attention to detail, creativity, and sense of humor help ensure that his patients are engaged in treatment and experience the results they are seeking.

As a licensed therapist in Montana, I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals through life's most challenging transitions. My practice is deeply rooted in understanding the complex emotional landscapes of stress, trauma, grief, and personal growth. I specialize in helping clients navigate difficult experiences, from social anxiety and relationship challenges to life purpose exploration and healing from past wounds. My approach is compassionate and holistic, focusing on empowering individuals to develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome feelings of isolation. I work with diverse populations, including young adults, veterans, first responders, and individuals experiencing significant life changes. By creating a supportive and non-judgmental space, I help clients build resilience, develop healthy coping strategies, and rediscover their inner strength. I am committed to walking alongside you as you work through complex emotions, relationship dynamics, and personal transformations. Together, we can explore your unique journey and develop meaningful strategies for healing and personal growth.

Welcome to where I believe in a collaborative and empowering approach to healing. As a licensed clinical professional counselor and retired Army veteran, I understand the unique challenges you may face, including trauma. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a proven method that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. At Straight Forward Therapy, we'll work together to understand your concerns, develop effective coping strategies for stress and anxiety, and improve your overall emotional well-being. I'll provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your challenges, build resilience, and navigate life's transitions. It's okay to not be okay. I'm here to support you on your journey towards healing and a more fulfilling life.

As a licensed therapist serving Montana, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex challenges. My practice focuses on helping clients develop stronger self-understanding, improve communication skills, and build resilience through personalized, compassionate care. I have extensive experience working with young adults and men addressing issues like stress, relationship dynamics, self-esteem, and personal growth. My therapeutic approach centers on creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop healthy coping strategies, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. I draw from evidence-based practices to help individuals manage anxiety, work through life transitions, and develop more authentic, empowered ways of engaging with themselves and others. I am committed to meeting each client where they are, honoring their unique journey, and providing thoughtful, culturally responsive guidance. Whether you're struggling with interpersonal challenges, seeking personal development, or working through significant life changes, I'm dedicated to supporting your path toward healing and growth.

As a Licensed Therapist and Life Coach in Montana, I bring over three decades of dedicated experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. I am also certified in EMDR and Hypnotherapy. My approach is compassionate and tailored, with specialized expertise in addressing Addiction, Trauma recovery, stress, anxiety, relationship dynamics I focus on helping clients navigate intricate emotional landscapes, particularly supporting older adults, individuals experiencing midlife transitions, and those dealing with workplace challenges, chronic conditions, and interpersonal difficulties. My therapeutic style emphasizes self-love, effective communication, and healing from past experiences. My practice centers on creating a supportive environment where clients can explore personal growth, overcome isolation, and develop meaningful strategies for emotional well-being. I am committed to guiding individuals through complex emotional journeys with empathy, respect, and professional insight. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, processing trauma, managing life transitions, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I offer a thoughtful, collaborative approach to support your unique path toward healing and personal empowerment.