Dr. Stephen Bentley

Dr. Stephen Bentley is a licensed professional clinical counselor with 32 years of experience. He focuses on helping people who are dealing with stress, anger, addiction, anxiety, grief, mood concerns, and relationship or parenting strain. He aims to build a respectful, compassionate working relationship so clients feel understood as they begin change.

He uses a person-centered style that begins by listening to what the client needs. From there he blends practical tools from cognitive-behavioral work with attention to emotions and relationships. He looks for what will help a person make steady, realistic changes rather than relying on labels.

His background includes hospital work, group and individual therapy, crisis intervention, and more than a decade as a director and supervisor. He has also spent many years with the same practice, giving continuity to his approach and perspective.

Dr. Bentley has worked with a wide range of issues, including trauma, physical and emotional abuse, autism, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive concerns, and chronic health stress. He emphasizes respect, sensitivity, and compassion while avoiding stigmatizing labels.

He began offering telehealth more widely during the COVID-19 period and finds it a useful option for people who need flexibility. He invites people who are ready to make a change to take a first step and says he will support them through the process.

How his approaches translate to online work

Dr. Bentley combines person-centered work with cognitive-behavioral and emotionally-focused elements. Client-centered therapy means the therapist follows the person's lead, matches pace, and focuses on building a trustworthy working relationship that supports change. Cognitive-behavioral work brings practical tools for managing thoughts, behaviors, and anger triggers, useful for stress, anxiety, and addiction concerns. Emotionally-focused elements help people name strong feelings and repair strained connections in relationships.

Finding the right approach is part of the process and will be collaborative. The therapist will talk with the client about needs, goals, and what feels most helpful. Together they decide which methods and exercises to try, and adjust them as progress is made.

The original biography notes telehealth became a useful option during COVID-19, but specific session formats are not listed. Confirm current session options before booking. Online sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy life, reduce travel time, allow quicker check-ins during a work break, or let someone choose audio-only if video is difficult. Licensed professionals can use these options to deliver the same kinds of emotional work and practical CBT tasks that are done in person.