Catherine Brenen , LMSW

Catherine Brenen is a Michigan-based licensed social worker with 16 years of clinical experience supporting adults facing a range of life challenges. She helps people manage anxiety, stress, substance use, depression, relationship and family concerns, trauma, health-related difficulties, and transitions related to aging. Her work emphasizes respect, empathy, and a faith-informed belief in people, creating a supportive environment where clients can explore goals and develop practical coping strategies.

Her therapeutic stance is warm and engaging, grounded in unconditional positive regard rather than judgment or fear-based tactics. She draws from solution-focused methods, client-centered principles, dialectical and cognitive-behavioral techniques, and at times psychodynamic ideas to tailor treatment to each person. Sessions are designed to be collaborative and tailored - the focus is on identifying strengths, clarifying values, and building skills that promote meaningful change.

Catherine holds the LMSW credential, which stands for Licensed Master Social Worker, and she practices in Michigan. She approaches care with patience, optimism, and a readiness to support people as they take the often-challenging first steps toward improved well-being.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Catherine Brenen uses client-centered therapy to create a respectful, collaborative space where the client's goals guide the work. This approach focuses on active listening, empathy, and building on individual strengths to address issues like relationship challenges, self-esteem, and life transitions.

She also applies cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help clients identify unhelpful thoughts and behaviors and develop practical skills for managing anxiety, depression, and stress. CBT emphasizes structured techniques and homework to support measurable change.

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is integrated when clients need skills for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. DBT blends acceptance and change strategies, which can be beneficial for managing intense emotions and improving relationships.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Catherine works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods best fit their needs, goals, and preferences, and she adapts the plan as progress unfolds.

Online therapy offers convenient options such as video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. These formats provide flexibility for scheduling, make it easier to maintain continuity of care amidst busy lives, and allow therapy to fit into clients' daily routines while preserving access to licensed professionals.