MENUBryan Bergstrom, LMFTA
Bryan Bergstrom’s Therapist Disclosure Statement <<< (Clickable)
Seeking therapy is an act of courage, whether you want to make a change, improve your relationships, or you are experiencing a challenge such as sadness, anxiety, trauma, or grief. I offer a safe and compassionate space to work through the challenges you want to address. I take a stance of acceptance and non-judgmental curiosity and interest in each of my clients. Come as you are. I want to know you and your experiences as we explore the changes YOU want to make in your life and relationships.
As a therapist, I embrace a systems perspective. I feel strongly that the systems we are a part of and engage with are key to how we view ourselves and others. Our relationships are how we experience life. “Systems” can include family, friends, jobs, and many others. As social beings, our relationships throughout our lives shape how we see ourselves, others, and the world around us. A strong and trusting therapeutic relationship is also key as we collaborate to create change in your life.
Prior to becoming a therapist, my work experience was largely in public parks and recreation. My life experiences better enable me to understand my clients’ lives and experiences. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate. I earned my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Whitworth University. I have received specific training in Emotion Focused Couples Therapy and am seeking further training towards certification.
In my free time I enjoy being in nature – especially on the water. My hobbies include gardening, hiking, and anything to do with boats. I value time with friends and family, especially around a fire in the backyard.
Specialties and areas of focus
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Grief/Loss
- Trauma
- Self-Esteem
- Relationship Issues
Q&A with Bryan
1.) Some therapists are more comfortable addressing the immediate problem, while others want to focus on the deeper issue. Which are you?
If clients need or want to work on their immediate problem, I am happy to do so. To accomplish lasting change, I invite clients to explore deeper issues. My approach is “challenge by choice”.
I feel strongly that it is the client’s choice how deep they want to go and what they want to disclose and discuss. Some clients want to work through a specific immediate problem and if that is their goal then we can work towards that goal. If they want to get to the root of their issue and go deeper, I am ready, willing and able to do so.
2.) Do you tend to lead the session, or follow my lead?
Clients often share what is happening with them and I follow their lead. However, I will challenge clients to focus on the goals we have agreed to work toward and direct the session to that end.
3.) What are your strengths as a therapist?
I am accepting of people as they are, recognizing their strengths and collaborating with them to accomplish the healing or change that they need.
4.) If you had one superpower, what would it be and why?
The ability to communicate with other species. What is my dog really thinking?
5.) What makes you laugh?
I appreciate dry humor. People who can deliver a one-liner that cracks people up.
6.) Who would you have dinner with, dead or alive?
Any or all of my Grandparents. I was lucky enough to know them all and I would love to speak with them again.
