- CBT
- ACT
- DBT
About Brenden
Dr. Brenden Troster is an LMFT - Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Minnesota with seven years of clinical practice. He also holds a PhD in Developmental Psychology and brings long experience as a coach. He works with concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, ADHD, addiction, grief, relationship and intimacy issues, sleep problems, parenting stress, anger, self-esteem, career concerns, bipolar disorder, and coping with life changes.
Before private practice he worked across school-based mental health, addiction treatment, residential care for children and teens, and outpatient programs for people with persistent mental illness. That background shaped his practical, skills-focused approach to common and complex problems. He has supported people through recovery from abuse, addiction including pornography, self-harm, and severe mood symptoms.
Therapy with him begins by listening to the client’s story and identifying goals that matter to that person. Sessions focus on clear, real-world strategies rather than jargon. He uses proven techniques to help people notice patterns, practice new skills, and test small changes between sessions.
He draws on methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), the Gottman Method, and client-centered ideas to shape treatment. The plan is developed collaboratively, paced to the individual, and reviewed as progress is made.
Dr. Troster works in English and practices in Minnesota. People considering therapy should be prepared to talk about recent struggles, long-term patterns, and what they want to change. The focus is on building practical tools and clearer decision-making for early adult challenges and beyond.
How his approaches translate to online work
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people notice difficult thoughts and feelings without getting stuck in them, and it supports choosing actions that match personal values. ACT can be useful for anxiety, depression, and decision-related stress.Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) breaks problems into thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and teaches practical skill-building to shift unhelpful patterns. It is commonly used for anxiety, depression, sleep issues, and stress management.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) focuses on emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and clear interpersonal skills. It can help with intense emotions, anger, and relationship conflict.
Finding the right approach is part of therapy. He will work together with each person to pick methods that fit their goals, values, and daily life. That collaborative decision is revisited as needs change and progress is tracked with concrete steps.
If you are considering online sessions, confirm which session formats he currently offers before booking. Many people find remote meetings easier to fit around school, work, or caregiving. Phone sessions can be shorter check-ins when bandwidth or camera use is difficult, and video sessions allow face-to-face work for skills practice and relationship-focused work. Discuss practical scheduling needs and preferences at the first appointment to tailor sessions to everyday life.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
7+ years
Listed in
Minnesota, Iowa, Massachusetts
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does he help with?
He works with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, ADHD, addictions, grief, relationship and intimacy concerns, sleep problems, parenting stress, anger, self-esteem, career questions, bipolar disorder, and coping with life changes.
How would he describe his therapy style?
His style is practical and collaborative. Sessions focus on listening, setting goals, and learning skills people can use between meetings.
How much clinical experience does he have?
He has seven years of experience as a therapist and more than 25 years working as a coach, including work in schools, addiction treatment, residential care, and outpatient settings.
What are his credentials and where is he based?
He is an LMFT with an MA LMFT and practices in Minnesota.
Can I work with him if I live outside the United States?
He does not accept international clients. Sessions are offered in English.
What session formats does he offer?
The original biography does not list specific session formats. Confirm current session options before booking so you know whether video or phone meetings are available.
How are fees handled?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with him?
Start by selecting the See online therapy options button, completing a short matching questionnaire, and scheduling a first session.
Online talk therapy through BetterHelp is for adults aged 18 and over and is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the emergency numbers. Find someone else by name.