Our Team

Supportive, Effective, Experienced

Meet our Montana therapists offering skilled counseling for trauma, anxiety, depression, mental health conditions, and much more. In-person or via telehealth.

About Advanced Counseling Bozeman and across MT

We are a trauma treatment center specializing in client-centered care for people experiencing a wide range of experiences and mental health issues. We provide in-person and telehealth services for individuals, couples, and families across Montana, drawing from a diversity of treatment modalities to support you in your needs, goals, and challenges. 

Whether you’re struggling with a relationship, communication, life stress, self-worth, mental health, or past trauma, we are here to support you on your path toward feeling better and living fully.

Our experienced therapists provide in-person appointments in Bozeman, Missoula, Lewistown and Billings.

We can also provide mental health care to clients from all over Montana, via a secure and confidential telehealth platform, allowing rural Montanans access to comprehensive mental health care.

We support people from all walks of life and all backgrounds as allies and advocates.

Advanced Counseling Bozeman provides a safe, compassionate therapy environment for all individuals, including LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, survivors of domestic violence/intimate partner violence, and First Responders.

What to expect when working with us

No matter what situation you’re in, seeking counseling is a brave act of self-love. It’s essential to have a comfortable, supportive, and non-judgemental space to explore and process hardships, uncover your strengths, and clarify and work toward your goals.

Advanced Counseling Bozeman believes in building trust through warmth, connection, and authenticity. We practice a client-led approach, offering the foundational support you need, while empowering you with the agency you deserve.

Answers to the most frequently asked questions about working with us can be found here.

Our Therapists

The team at Advanced Counseling of Bozeman comes from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences — just like our clients do.

Your relationship with your therapist matters, and it’s important for us to get to know each other, so we can we help match you with the right therapist. Please reach out to us today to for an initial consultation, where we’ll learn more about you and help you find your ideal support system with one of our team members.

Erin Clark, Bozeman

Owner, Psychotherapist, MSW, LCSW, SEP, &
EMDRIA Approved Consultant

Erin Clark is a skilled, compassionate, and highly experienced psychotherapist specializing in individual therapy for adults aged 18 and above. She supports each person’s inherent capacity to heal, guiding them toward lasting, meaningful change and transformation, through healing, measurable goals and solutions. The relationship between therapist and client is incredibly important to the healing process — Erin’s approach is client-led and attachment-based, emphasizing acceptance, non-judgment, and a solution-oriented focus. She is welcoming, open-minded, and attuned to client needs, creating a safe, empathetic space for clients to explore and grow as they heal. Erin founded Advanced Counseling Bozeman in 2016 to help more people receive the mental health care needed to heal and thrive.

Erin has a passion for helping those impacted by trauma, domestic violence, LGBTQIA+ folx and women. She is also an EMDRIA approved consultant, offering consultancy to other therapists pursuing EMDR certification through EMDRIA, which requires 20 hours of extra consultation above and beyond the standard training required to become an EMDR therapist. She also provides business consultation for those wanting to start psychotherapy practices and group psychotherapy practices. Erin holds a Masters of Social Work degree from Walla Walla University in Billings, MT.

In addition to her passion for her work, Erin finds joy in spending time with her family and traveling, boating, surfing, and snowboarding. As a lifelong learner, she loves to read — you can never have too many books!

    • Attachment Focused EMDR

    • EMDRIA-certified Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist

    • EMDRIA approved EMDR consultant, and now offering consultation to other therapists seeking certification in EMDR

    • Fully trained in Somatic Experiencing (SE) with the Somatic Experiencing Institute and is an SEP (Somatic Experiencing Professional)

    • Specializes in treating prenatal and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders.

    • Aetna

    • Allegiance

    • Anthem BCBS

    • EBMS

    • BCBS (Blue Cross Blue Shield)

    • Cigna

    • Crime and Victims Compensation

    • Evernorth

    • First Choice Health

    • Montana Health Co-op

    • Optum

    • PacificSource

    • Regence BCBS

    • Out of Network

Ashlee Owens, Telehealth

Practice Manager and Lead Psychotherapist, MSW, LCSW

Ashlee Owens has immediate openings via telehealth for clients ages 18 and older.

Ashlee provides trauma-informed counseling services to help clients heal, grow, and break down barriers to change. Her therapeutic approach is client-centered, strengths-based, provided at a safe, comfortable pace with an emphasis on client collaboration. Flexible, approachable, and down-to-earth, Ashlee truly enjoys connecting with people in a very “non-sterile” therapy environment. She is here to meet clients where they are at, and feels a sense of honor to be trusted to walk alongside them in the vulnerable process of healing and growth.

Ashlee specializes in treating trauma and PTSD, sexual violence/abuse, family violence, intimate partner violence, depression, and anxiety, working to help clients learn new coping skills to help them flourish. Ashlee has a heart for providing services to women, the LGBTQIA+ community, adults, and young adults, with a special focus on empowering women and girls to heal from traumatic experiences in order to live their ideal lives.

With a Bachelor of Psychology (MSUB) and Master of Social Work (Walla Walla University), Ashlee is licensed in Montana, Florida, Texas, Maine, South Carolina, and Washington. She has been a member since 2013 and as it the current co-chair of the Board of Directors for the Montana Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. She enjoys reading, traveling, baking, and spending time with her golden retriever, Finn, who is a frequent visitor during sessions throughout the day — clients love when he pops in to say hi!

    • Attachment Focused EMDR

    • Somatic Experiencing Student (Beginning)

    • Attachment Focused Therapy

    • Rogerian

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    • Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

    • Motivational Interviewing

      • Aetna

      • Allegiance

      • Anthem BCBS

      • EBMS

      • BCBS (Blue Cross Blue Shield)

      • Cigna

      • Evernorth

      • First Choice Health

      • Montana Health Co-op

      • Optum

      • PacificSource

      • Regence BCBS

      • Out of Network

Rebecca Spencer, Missoula

Assistant Practice Manager and Lead Psychotherapist, MSW, LCSW, LAC

Rebecca Spencer has immediate openings via telehealth for clients 12 years old and up.

People are often drawn to therapy by a catalyst, a traumatic experience, or a series of events, which awaken a troubling realization all is not right. Whether we lean on unhealthy coping skills, abuse drugs, or alcohol, engage in toxic relationships, or any number of other struggles, the trauma makes itself known and heard in our lives. Engaging in therapy is an important first step in facing those emotions and beginning to process them in a manner that positively serves you and paves a road forward.

Rebecca (aka Becca)  is trained in treating trauma, mental illness, and a range of addictions. She works together with her clients to develop effective personal coping strategies to target current problems, find solutions, and improve self-esteem. Sometimes, these therapeutic interventions can be brief jumpstarts to help clients confidently engage in next steps, employing evidence-based practices in positive psychology principles to create solutions, rather than focus on problems. Other times, clients need longer-term support and a comprehensive, accessible plan to address deeper trauma and the impact it has on them. 

As your therapist, her goal is to meet you where you are, to provide validation and encouragement through empathy, acceptance, and respect. You are the expert on your own life — the one you live today, and the life you truly want to live. By cultivating a trusting therapeutic relationship and providing a safe and supportive environment, Becca hopes to prove that change is possible and help you get there.

    • EMDR

    • Dialectic Behavioral Therapy

    • Motivational Interviewing

    • Cognitive Behavior Therapy

    • Attachment Based Therapy

    • Mindfulness

      • Aetna

      • Allegiance

      • Anthem BCBS

      • EBMS

      • BCBS (Blue Cross Blue Shield)

      • Cigna

      • Crime and Victims Compensation

      • Evernorth

      • First Choice Health

      • Montana Health Co-op

      • Optum

      • PacificSource

      • Regence BCBS

      • Out of Network

Meagan Schmidt, Bozeman

Psychotherapist, Lead Clinician, MA, LCPC

As Lead Clinician at Advanced Counseling Bozeman, Meagan Schmidt brings over six years of experience as a clinician, serving communities across Oregon, Maryland, Virginia, and now, Montana. Meagan's empathetic dedication to supporting clients' healing and growth and a deep professional skillset make her an exceptional ally for supporting personal growth. Her passion for helping others, particularly children, young adults and families, stems from her early experiences working with children who were labeled as "bad" or "troubled." Time spent in Nepal, where she worked with women rescued from the sex trafficking industry, heightened her empathy and fueled her desire to support those who have experienced abuse, or trauma. Despite language barriers, the connection she built with the women prompted an immediate offer for a counseling position at the local safe house. She deeply respects the strength and resilience of individuals who have faced traumatic challenges and difficult situations but still reach out for support. 

Meagan's diverse background enables her to adapt her approach to meet individual needs. Her sense of humor and ability to find joy in life, including her work, create a welcoming and lighthearted therapeutic atmosphere. Her approach involves meeting clients where they are, focusing on their strengths, and utilizing expressive arts as a means of communication.

Meagan holds a degree in Marriage, Family, and Couples Counseling and is a member of the Association for Play Therapy. She has specialized training in EMDR, Play Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, and trauma. She has studied under renowned professionals such as Daniel Sweeney and Garry Landreth.

With the personal motto that "tomorrow is a new day," Meagan embraces the belief that each day holds the potential for growth and change. She loves spending time with her closest friends and her dog, who inspires her to live an active lifestyle. Family is essential to Meagan's life, with two older sisters – one living in San Diego, and the other in Bozeman, with her husband and three children. Meagan cherishes her role in their lives and had the privilege of being involved in the adoption process of her youngest nephew from India. With a creative at heart, she also enjoys playing the guitar and singing.

    • Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    • Play therapy

    • Trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing)

    • Specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, suicide prevention, and crisisintervention

      • Aetna

      • Allegiance

      • Anthem BCBS

      • EBMS

      • BCBS (Blue Cross Blue Shield)

      • Cigna

      • Crime and Victims Compensation

      • Evernorth

      • First Choice Health

      • Montana Health Co-op

      • Optum

      • PacificSource

      • Regence BCBS

      • Out of Network

Gabbi Niemi, Telehealth

Psychotherapist, MSW, LCSW

Passionate about helping individuals heal and move towards wellness, Gabbi offers a compassionate and caring environment where clients can process and navigate through difficult experiences. She firmly believes in the power of tailoring treatment to meet each client's unique needs, recognizing that they are the experts of their own experiences. With over eight years of experience supporting the mental health needs of children, adolescents, and adults, she has developed expertise in addressing a wide range of mental health conditions, including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Gabbi employs evidence-based practices like CBT, EMDR and MI with a compassionate approach, and firmly believes that therapy should provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and personal growth. 

Outside of her therapeutic work, Gabbi finds joy in various forms of artistic expression, including painting. As a music enthusiast, she frequently attends live rock shows, and she appreciates exploring different cultures through art, travel, and food. Most often, you can find her spending time with her pets and family.

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    • Mindfulness

    • Motivational Interviewing

    • EMDR

    • Creative expression

      • Aetna

      • Allegiance

      • Anthem BCBS

      • EBMS

      • BCBS (Blue Cross Blue Shield)

      • Cigna

      • Crime and Victims Compensation

      • Evernorth

      • First Choice Health

      • Montana Health Co-op

      • Optum

      • PacificSource

      • Regence BCBS

      • Out of Network

Hanna Knudsen, Telehealth

Psychotherapist, MA, PCLC

Hanna Knudsen strives to create a safe and nonjudgmental space for her clients. She believes in helping clients feel truly seen and understood, offering a perspective of radical acceptance to the more hidden and challenging aspects of life. She meets individuals where they are at in their own situations and worldviews, especially from a spiritual perspective, and provides objective, empathetic guidance to help them find purpose and fulfillment.

Hanna's areas of focus encompass a wide range of mental health concerns, including ADHD, autism spectrum, LGBT+ support, spiritual abuse, sexual dysfunction, suicidality, somatic disorders, trauma, ACES, dissociative disorders, complex relational counseling, and grief work. Hanna holds a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and has also trained in various ADHD and Autism Spectrum care programs and hospice grief counseling. She spearheaded a change in her graduate program that led to more comprehensive education on multicultural counseling, both for her cohort and for future students. She brings an insightful, understanding, and open-minded presence to her therapy relationships. Hanna is honored to be included by clients in their own journeys, and seeks to make a meaningful difference in their lives.

As a homebody, Hanna enjoys a warm fireplace, a good video game, and dabbling in various arts and crafts. Before deciding to become a counselor, she studied creative film, and still works on short films from time to time. Her taste in music leans toward exciting, unique soundscapes that stir her experiences of synesthesia. Hanna recently earned her advanced open water scuba diving certification. She plays the piano quite well and the harp much less so, and loves to sing.

    • Rogerian Psychology

    • EMDR

    • Existential-Humanism

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

    • Crisis Intervention

    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

    • Motivational Interviewing

    • Currently training in Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Hypnotherapy

      • Aetna

      • Allegiance

      • Anthem BCBS

      • EBMS

      • BCBS (Blue Cross Blue Shield)

      • Cigna

      • Evernorth

      • First Choice Health

      • Montana Health Co-op

      • Optum

      • PacificSource

      • Regence BCBS

      • Out of Network

Madie Youlden, Billings

Psychotherapist, MSW, SWLC

Madie Youlden is a client-centered clinician with a passion for providing a safe space for individuals to explore themselves in a healthy and holistic way. She believes in the power of therapy to facilitate growth and self-awareness. As an "outgoing introvert," Madie brings a unique, blended perspective to the therapeutic process, making the experience more approachable and less intimidating for clients. Known for her approachability, humor creativity, and trustworthiness, she values empathy, inclusivity, and equity for all individuals creating an environment of support and acceptance, empowering clients as they grow.

Madie is continuously expanding her professional knowledge and skill set. She takes personal pride in her ability to achieve her goals despite adversity, and is passionate about supporting her clients in developing their resilience as well as encouraging them to cultivate contentment in life through true self-care, with the perspective that we can only show up for others, if we also show up for ourselves.

Embodying the motto of "progress, not perfection," Madie embraces the idea that growth is an ongoing journey. On weekends, you might find her immersed in coloring or painting, cherishing family time with friends, or exploring new places through travel.

Madie is excited to be a part of your growth experience, and is currently accepting new clients.

    • Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

    • Rogerian therapy

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    • Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

      • Aetna

      • Allegiance

      • Anthem BCBS

      • EBMS

      • BCBS (Blue Cross Blue Shield)

      • Cigna

      • Evernorth

      • First Choice Health

      • Montana Health Co-op

      • Optum

      • PacificSource

      • Regence BCBS

      • Out of Network

Jamie Lingenfelter, Bozeman

Psychotherapist, MSW, SWLC

Jamie Lingenfelter is a psychotherapist with a caring nature and a passion for helping others. She loves witnessing clients' growth and supporting them in becoming the best version of themselves. Her desire to pursue a career in mental health stems from growing up in a small town in Montana, where she witnessed the stigma surrounding mental health and the impact of limited resources. Inspired to make a difference, Jamie followed in the footsteps of her role models as a second-generation social worker. Her background and perspective help her connect more deeply with individuals in rural Montana and the challenges that lifestyle can bring. She has significant experience working with youth and families.

Jamie holds a bachelor's degree in social work from the University of Montana and earned her master's degree in social work from Walla Walla University.

Jamie's nonjudgemental, caring, observant, and flexible approach helps her build trust and form authentic, meaningful client relationships. Jamie's motivation to make a difference for others comes from her motto: "The client is the expert of themselves and has everything within themselves to grow and heal." Within the Advanced Counseling practice, she is appreciated for her ability to work collaboratively and foster positive relationships within the team. 

Outside of work, Jamie can be found enjoying the outdoors, taking her dog Remi to the park, hosting backyard barbecues, camping, or floating the river. She also likes reading cheesy romance books, and always appreciates a good iced lavender latte.

    • Gottman Method Couples Therapy (Level 1)

    • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

    • EMDR training

    • Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

    • Motivational Interviewing (MI)

      • Aetna

      • Allegiance

      • Anthem BCBS

      • EBMS

      • BCBS (Blue Cross Blue Shield)

      • Cigna

      • Crime and Victims Compensation

      • Evernorth

      • First Choice Health

      • Montana Health Co-op

      • Optum

      • PacificSource

      • Regence BCBS

      • Out of Network

Rachel Brown, Bozeman

Psychotherapist, MSW, SWLC

Rachel Brown draws from a decade of experience as a psychotherapist, emphasizing authentic relationships and empathetic support. Her nurturing approach and problem-solving skills enable her to work through challenges, while making clients feel genuinely cared for. Rachel finds joy in building connections, leveraging problem-solving skills, and embracing laughter as a therapeutic tool. With expertise in attachment and trauma work, she helps clients develop resilience and experience transformative healing.

Rachel has dedicated her career to helping people feel seen and heard in a supportive space. She holds a Master’s degree in Social Work with a focus on At-Risk Youth and Animal Assisted Therapy, and offers a wide range of therapeutic modalities. Her diverse work and life experiences have shaped her into a skilled connector, navigating complex situations with kindness, bravery, and optimism.

Rachel balances a deep commitment to her work with free time spent outdoors, enjoying all Montana has to offer with her two children and extended family.

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Cognitive Processing Therapy

    • Somatic Therapy

    • Polyvagal Therapy

    • EMDR

    • Psychodynamic Therapy

    • Play & Art Therapy

    • Mindfulness-Based Therapy

    • Person-Centered Therapy

      • Aetna

      • Allegiance

      • Anthem BCBS

      • EBMS

      • BCBS (Blue Cross Blue Shield)

      • Cigna

      • Crime and Victims Compensation

      • Evernorth

      • First Choice Health

      • Montana Health Co-op

      • Optum

      • PacificSource

      • Regence BCBS

      • Out of Network

Jessica Gerling, Bozeman

Psychotherapist, MSW, SWLC

Jessica Gerling is known for her direct yet supportive approach. Clients appreciate her ability to be authentic and straightforward while providing empathetic guidance and a safe space to navigate challenging topics. Through techniques that balance self-regulation and the courage to seek support, she empowers individuals to heal and take charge of their lives. Born and raised in Bozeman, Jessica's work is deeply rooted in her love for her community and desire to make a positive impact. Jessica holds both a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and a Master of Social Work (MSW). In addition to her work as a therapist, her diverse professional experience spans home health and hospice care, to elementary behavioral work and youth transitional housing – supporting individuals with internal and situational challenges toward personal empowerment.

Jessica's perspectives and experiences bring both practicality and compassion to her therapy practice. At the heart of Jessica's world is family – she loves spending quality time with her husband, two young boys, three dogs, and a bunny. She also enjoys being outdoors and playing Nintendo with her kids. Jessica's motto is, "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone," and she believes in the power of resilience and kindness.

    • Solution-Focused Therapy

    • EMDR

    • Narrative Therapy

    • Motivational Interviewing

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    • Behavior Therapy

    • Play Therapy

    • Conflict Resolution

    • Nonviolent Crisis Intervention

    • Family Therapy

    • Group Therapy

    • Aetna

    • Allegiance

    • Anthem BCBS

    • EBMS

    • BCBS (Blue Cross Blue Shield)

    • Cigna

    • Evernorth

    • First Choice Health

    • Montana Health Co-op

    • Optum

    • PacificSource

    • Regence BCBS

    • Out of Network

Emily Hodge, Lewistown

Psychotherapist, MSW, SWLC

Emily Hodge is a warm and compassionate clinician living in the heart of Montana. Her primary goal as a therapist is to create a safe space for clients to do their deep work. Emily embraces a holistic strengths-based view of each individual, and believes that clients are the expert within their own lives. Her therapeutic approach is person-centered, which allows her use multiple modalities based on the client’s strengths, goals, and desires.

In sessions, Emily utilizes psychodynamic therapy, which means looking at both the present and the past to understand how we show up in the world. With an integrative approach to trauma informed care, Emily draws from a wide range of modalities that may include Somatic/Body-Centered Therapy, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Mindfulness/Mind-body integration, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Relational/ Attachment-based Therapy – as well as elements of IFS (Internal Family Systems) and Existential modalities.

Emily holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Montana and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Boise State University, and has a special interest in trauma/PTSD, domestic violence, grief and loss and Somatic psychotherapy.  A lifelong student, Emily is committed to embodied learning and is passionate about expanding her skillset and expertise. Beyond her work as a therapist, Emily enjoys live music and time with loved ones. She is endlessly fascinated with philosophy, relational neuroscience, and the power of the written word.

Emily is currently taking new clients via telehealth and in-person appointments in Lewistown.

      • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

      • Attachment Based Therapy

      • Psychodynamic Therapy

      • Somatic and Body-Centered Approach

      • Mindfulness

      • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

      • Internal Family Systems (IFS)

      • Soon to be trained in EMDR

    • Aetna

    • Allegiance

    • Anthem BCBS

    • EBMS

    • BCBS (Blue Cross Blue Shield)

    • Cigna

    • Evernorth

    • First Choice Health

    • Montana Health Co-op

    • Optum

    • PacificSource

    • Regence BCBS

    • Out of Network

Gabrielle Molina, Bozeman

Psychotherapist, MSW, SWLC

Gabrielle Molina brings a compassionate, insightful approach to her work as a therapist at Advanced Counseling Bozeman. With over a decade of working in various mental health roles with diverse communities, she understands the importance of honoring each client's unique story. Her personal and professional experiences enhance her ability to connect deeply with people, fostering authenticity, openness, and trust.

Gabrielle individualizes her approach, combining multiple modalities including psychodynamic therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), EMDR, and strengths-based methods. She is dedicated to helping people build self-awareness, heal from past traumas, and achieve personal growth.

Gabrielle believes healing occurs in a nurturing environment where clients feel safe to be vulnerable and explore their inner world, and is committed to creating this space. Gabrielle is a caring, authentic, and skilled listener, and helps clients feel genuinely heard and understood. She takes great joy in guiding people toward positive change and self-discovery.

Outside of therapy, Gabrielle enjoys hosting dinners, camping, and exploring metaphysical interests like astrology and tarot, and infusing her personal and professional life with warmth and curiosity.

    • Solution-Focused Therapy

    • EMDR (in training)

    • Psychodynamic

    • Strengths Based

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    • Aetna

    • Allegiance

    • Anthem BCBS

    • EBMS

    • BCBS (Blue Cross Blue Shield)

    • Cigna

    • Evernorth

    • First Choice Health

    • Montana Health Co-op

    • Optum

    • PacificSource

    • Regence BCBS

    • Out of Network

Kathleen Byrne, Bozeman

Psychotherapist, MA, EdS, MEd, PCLC

Kathleen Byrne is an empathetic and skilled Clinical Mental Health Counselor dedicated to fostering healing and resilience on both individual and community levels. She provides individual counseling and facilitates group therapy with cultural competence and an inclusive, affirming approach. Kathleen approaches every therapeutic relationship with expertise and compassion, supporting individuals of all identities and backgrounds throughout the journey of life through a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidal ideation, grief, and loss. She also assists clients with life transitions, marginalized identity concerns, and LGBTQIA+ matters. Believing in the power of a therapeutic relationship built on trust and understanding, Kathleen provides a safe, nurturing environment for clients to explore challenges and develop skills for growth and resilience.

With a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and training in Narrative Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) Internal Family Systems (IFS), National Adoption Competency Mental Health Training (NTI), Mindfulness, and EMDR, she brings extensive expertise to her practice. Kathleen spent twenty-five years as a Teaching Professor, Educator, and Program Developer, focusing on social equity and multicultural education, and co-founded and directed the Diversity Awareness Office at Montana State University. Her background in education, working in the US and abroad, enriches her holistic approach to counseling. Kathleen's journey as a mother of five young adults with diverse identities has given her a deep understanding of the complexities of human development and identity. She finds joy in biking, painting, traveling, spending quality time with family and friends, reading, and engaging with music.

    • Narrative Therapy

    • Internal Family Systems (IFS)

    • Mindfulness

    • EMDR (In Training)

    • Aetna

    • Allegiance

    • Anthem BCBS

    • EBMS

    • BCBS (Blue Cross Blue Shield)

    • Cigna

    • Crime and Victims Compensation

    • Evernorth

    • First Choice Health

    • Montana Health Co-op

    • Optum

    • PacificSource

    • Regence BCBS

    • Out of Network

Leah Smith, Bozeman

Psychotherapist, MA, PCLC

Leah Smith is a compassionate, dynamic psychotherapist who creates a safe, collaborative space where her clients can explore, heal, and grow. Originally a classically trained pianist, she began her career seeking human connection through music before her pivot to counseling, where she brings a rich background in human resources, academic advising, and international teaching into her practice.

Leah specializes in treating trauma, PTSD, sexual violence, intimate partner violence, depression, anxiety, body image concerns, and phase-of-life transitions. She embraces holistic health, recognizing that healing involves the body, mind, and spirit.

Known for her warmth, intuition, and supportive presence, Leah believes in the power of a therapeutic relationship to foster self-understanding and personal growth. Inspired by her clients' courage and resilience, she loves helping them uncover new possibilities and healthier ways of being.

Outside the therapy room, Leah enjoys mountain adventures, creating wholesome new recipes, and the comfort of a good book, while music, yoga, and nature play an integral role in her own well-being.

    • Holistic Approach

    • Music Therapy

    • Solution-Focused Therapy

    • EMDR (in training)

    • Feminist Theory

    • Strengths Based

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    • Aetna

    • Allegiance

    • Anthem BCBS

    • EBMS

    • BCBS (Blue Cross Blue Shield)

    • Cigna

    • Evernorth

    • First Choice Health

    • Montana Health Co-op

    • Optum

    • PacificSource

    • Regence BCBS

    • Out of Network

Emily Loeffler

Client Care Coordinator, Marketing & Events Planner

Emily provides compassionate, supportive and effective care to clients during their counseling experience at Advanced Counseling Bozeman.

Emily also brings nearly a decade of expertise in marketing and event planning to the Advanced Counseling Bozeman team. She coordinates all marketing activities and manages social media platforms, as well as carry out organizational initiatives. Dependable and sincere, Emily jumps in when needed to support a wide range of tasks.

Her talents begin at the planning phase and continue through to the finished product/event. A skilled communicator and multitasker who gives attention to every detail throughout the process, she has dedicated her career to helping the visions of others come to life. Emily's dedication, creativity and ingenuity aids the clinicians who work here and the clients who seek support from us.

She enjoys traveling and exploring new adventures with her family.

Becky Owens

Billing Specialist and Client Care Coordinator

Becky is a skilled and caring professional, with over 30 years of customer service experience and is ready to help you navigate the confusing world of insurance. Using insurance benefits to pay for therapy is often a big and stressful concern for new clients.Becky handles all of our billing operations; she brings clarity, calm and compassion to the otherwise convoluted and confusing world of billing and using your insurance for services.

She helps demystify insurance terminology,conducts insurance checks prior to your first appointment and provides a written explanation via email, as well as answering any follow up questions you may have.

If you do not have insurance, she can speak with about out of pocket options and superbills for insurance we are not a preferred providers for.

She enjoys traveling and exploring new adventures with her family and is always a smiling face with a welcoming and warm presence.

Beth Sutter

Executive Administrative Assistant

Beth lends an empathetic and understanding ear to new and returning clients. She is the warm voice behind your first phone call seeking therapy at Advanced Counseling and the friendly face you will see if you come in to the office for appointments In Bozeman. She is compassionate, warm and easy to talk to you; she strives to provide the highest quality care and interactions to all of our clients around the state. She has an extensive history of working in customer service, human resources, and client care. She thrives at keeping all client contact confidential and safe; she strives to make people feel comfortable and welcome in a process that can sometimes feel overwhelming and scary.

Beth is passionate about improving mental health in our community, as well as access to competent and quality mental healthcare. She loves helping those around her.

Beth enjoys the outdoors, spending time with family and her animals.

Find the Right Guide for Your Therapy Journey

Not sure which therapist or type of therapy is right for you? Let us help you find the perfect match. We understand that starting with a new therapist can be overwhelming — whether it’s your first time in therapy, or you’ve been through the process before, we are committed to finding you the right fit.