- Client-Centered Therapy
- CBT and DBT methods
- Mindfulness practices
About Catherine
Catherine Brenen is an LMSW - Licensed Master Social Worker practicing in Michigan with 16 years of experience. She works with adults on common life stresses including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, addiction, grief, and issues tied to aging. Her listed focus includes family of origin concerns and intimacy-related struggles among other areas.
Her approach is grounded in straightforward conversation and practical methods. She uses client-centered work to listen and clarify what matters most to each person. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is used to identify unhelpful thoughts and try different behaviors. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness techniques are included for emotional regulation and grounding.
Sessions often combine short-term problem-solving with deeper exploration of patterns that began in childhood or family life. She also integrates motivational interviewing when people are looking to change behaviors like substance use. The work aims to reduce overwhelm and build clearer ways to handle everyday stressors.
Catherine emphasizes respect and positive regard in conversation. She avoids judgmental or fear-based approaches and focuses on practical next steps people can take between sessions. That can mean skill practice, small behavior experiments, or trying new communication approaches at home.
People who come for help often want to understand how family roles and expectations still affect their choices. Catherine helps unpack those patterns, supports emotional coping, and works with clients on problem-solving for relationships, work, and caregiving demands.
Therapeutic approaches and online sessions
Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening and reflecting back what matters to the person. It helps clarify goals and priorities by putting the client's experience at the center of the work.Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, looks at the links between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is practical and skill-oriented, useful for anxiety, depression, and behavior change related to substance use or daily routines.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy, DBT, provides tools for managing intense emotions and improving communication. It often includes skills for distress tolerance and emotion regulation that can be practiced between sessions.
Choosing the right approach is part of the work together. The therapist will discuss goals, preferences, and the issues at hand and will recommend which methods to emphasize. That decision is collaborative and can shift as needs change.
Please confirm which online session formats are currently offered before booking, as the biography does not list specific options. Online care can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy schedule, allow shorter check-ins when needed, or avoid travel time. Many people find that regular virtual appointments help them practice skills in real life and maintain continuity of support.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
16+ years
Listed in
Michigan
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does she address?
She works with stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship and family concerns, grief, and issues related to aging and caregiving.
What is her general therapy style?
She uses a straightforward, client-centered style that avoids judgment and focuses on clear next steps and practical skills.
How much clinical experience does she have?
She has 16 years of experience as a mental health provider in Michigan.
What credentials does she hold and where does she practice?
She is an LMSW - Licensed Master Social Worker practicing in Michigan.
Which languages are supported during sessions?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people outside the United States work with her?
She does not accept international clients at this time.
What session formats are offered?
Please confirm current session formats before booking as the biography does not list specific session formats.
How are fees handled and how do I begin?
Cost varies by location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time. To start, select the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the emergency numbers. Looking for someone else? Find them by surname.