Gary Bena MA, LPC

Gary enjoys working with adults, adolescents, and couples. His areas of interest include Depressive Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Adjustment Disorders associated with Grief and Loss.

Gary helps his clients regulate emotions, tolerate distress, and develop interpersonal effectiveness and mindfulness. He also focuses on acceptance. In describing his therapy style, Gary says, “I believe I am laid back, caring, and believe humility is very important.” Gary believes the best place to start is with one’s own feelings. He lets his clients talk and figure out what they feel needs to change or stay the same. He then suggests and explains skills that will likely help the person maintain positive changes acquired through practice during sessions and in everyday life.

Gary has specialized training in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Training (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP). ERP Therapy is used in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.

Gary works in our Arnold office and has afternoon and evening availability.

Education:
Master of Arts in Counseling from Webster University
Bachelor of Arts from University of Missouri-Columbia

Certifications:
Licensed Professional Counselor
Gottman Institute (for couples) Level 1 and 2 training (in process)

Gary has been married for 28 years and has two dogs. He enjoys watching the St. Louis Cardinals, cycling, and hiking.