Spela Bertoncelj , LCSW

Spela Bertoncelj is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in Montana who brings several years of clinical experience to her work supporting people through stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger, and challenges with self-esteem and motivation. She draws on established therapeutic methods to help clients build coping skills, manage difficult emotions, and navigate life transitions while honoring the client as the expert in their own story.

Spela’s practice addresses a wide range of concerns including trauma-related difficulties, relationship and attachment issues, caregiver stress, chronic illness and pain, communication and control problems, and feelings of isolation or purposelessness. She also works with clients facing divorce, financial stress, body image worries, guilt or shame, and struggles with impulsivity or forgiveness. Her approach is grounded in respect for each person’s strengths and resilience, and she encourages practical strategies that support day-to-day functioning and long-term growth.

She emphasizes collaboration and empowerment, helping individuals identify goals and build on their existing resources. Spela recognizes that beginning therapy can take courage and she offers a supportive, nonjudgmental presence for those taking that first step. As an LCSW - a credential indicating specialized training in clinical social work and psychotherapy - she combines clinical knowledge with a client-centered focus to guide meaningful change.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Support

Spela frequently uses Client-Centered Therapy, which focuses on creating a respectful, empathetic space where the client’s experience guides the work; this approach helps people explore their values, build self-understanding, and strengthen their sense of agency. She also draws on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify and reframe unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, a practical approach often used for anxiety, stress, and mood concerns. In addition, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) techniques are employed to teach emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness skills useful for managing intense emotions and improving relationships.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic journey, and Spela collaborates with each person to determine which methods best fit their needs, goals, and preferences. She tailors strategies over time and checks in regularly to ensure the work remains relevant and helpful.

Online therapy offers flexible ways to connect, including video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. These options allow individuals to access licensed professionals from home or while traveling, fit sessions into busy schedules, and choose the communication style that feels most comfortable, making ongoing care more attainable and consistent.