- Client-Centered Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Mindfulness Therapy
About Mary
Mary Gales-Wenz is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LICSW) in Minnesota with over 40 years of practice in behavioral health. She focuses on stress, anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, grief, depression, and issues common in young adults such as career questions and coping with life changes. Mary works with people facing mood disorders, sleep difficulties, and relationship stress related to family of origin issues and LGBT concerns.
She spent two decades at the Department of Veterans Affairs in both outpatient and inpatient settings. After that she provided mental health services at treatment centers and clinics, supervised residential treatment, and worked in behavioral health management for an insurance company. Since 2009 she has maintained a small private practice in Minnesota.
Mary has experience helping adults, seniors, and adolescents in chemical dependency and mental health programs. Her work has included post-traumatic stress, anxiety, sexual and physical trauma, and depression. She also addresses codependency, grief, and substance use concerns.
Her approach blends client-centered work with practical techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness. She also uses elements of dialectical behavior therapy and emotionally-focused methods when helpful. Mary pays attention to how physical health and chronic pain interact with mood and coping.
Mary keeps current with research and treatment options. The profile notes her interest in mind-body connections and mentions training in Accelerated Resolution Therapy. Prospective clients who want more detail about session options should confirm formats before booking.
How her approaches fit into online work
Client-centered therapy focuses on listening and understanding each person's concerns and goals. It helps people clarify what matters to them and build motivation for change. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, looks at patterns of thought and behavior and teaches concrete skills to reduce anxiety, manage mood, and address sleep or substance use problems. Dialectical Behavior Therapy, DBT, offers practical skills for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness that many young adults find useful when stress and strong emotions interfere with work or relationships.Finding the right mix of methods is a collaborative process. The therapist will talk with the client about goals, try approaches that fit those goals, and adjust the plan based on what works. That collaboration helps shape whether sessions emphasize skill practice, present-moment awareness, or exploring past trauma and grief.
The profile does not specify which session formats are offered, so confirm current options before booking. Online work can make it easier to fit sessions around study, shifts at work, or caregiving duties. Practical benefits include shorter check-ins when time is limited, the option to skip video for an audio visit, and using at-home notes or exercises between sessions. Discuss session length, frequency, and format during the first scheduling step so sessions match everyday life.
Areas of expertise
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
40+ years
Listed in
Minnesota
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What issues does she commonly address?
She works with stress, anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, grief, depression, and related concerns such as sleep problems and self-esteem.
How would she describe her therapeutic style?
Her style combines client-centered listening with practical methods from CBT, DBT skills, mindfulness, and emotionally-focused techniques.
How much experience does she have?
Mary has practiced in behavioral health settings for over 40 years, including long-term roles at VA hospitals and clinics.
What are her credentials and where is she based?
She is a Minnesota Licensed Independent Social Worker (LICSW) and practices in Minnesota.
Which languages are sessions offered in?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can international clients work with her?
International clients are not currently accepted.
How are sessions billed or paid for?
Cost varies with location; sessions use a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with her?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule 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.