- Goal focused
- Trauma informed
- Sleep and rest
About Brenden
Dr. Brenden Troster is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with seven years of clinical experience and a PhD in Developmental Psychology. He has worked across school mental health, addiction treatment, residential care for children and teens, and outpatient settings. He brings a long history of coaching as well, which shapes a practical, goal-focused style.
He listens first and asks questions to understand each person's story. Sessions focus on clear goals and simple steps people can try between meetings. He aims to create a respectful, compassionate space where clients can talk about hard things honestly.
Dr. Troster has supported people coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, addiction, self-harm concerns, anger, and recovery from abuse. He also works with issues like grief, intimacy struggles, sleep problems, parenting stress, and career transitions. His background includes experience with severe and persistent mental illness as well as youth residential care.
In practice he blends several approaches rather than sticking to one method. He uses tools from cognitive behavioral and acceptance-based work, skills from dialectical behavior approaches, and relational ideas from the Gottman method when relevant. He and the client decide together which strategies fit the client's needs and pace.
Sessions emphasize practical strategies, coping skills, and steps to build resilience. The focus is on helping people make manageable changes that match their values and life circumstances. He aims to support lasting progress while respecting each person's timing and priorities.
Therapeutic approaches used in online work
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy helps people notice unhelpful thoughts and choose actions that match their values. It can be useful for anxiety, stress, and life transitions.Cognitive Behavioral Therapy focuses on the links between thoughts, feelings, and actions. It offers practical exercises and homework to reduce symptoms like anxiety, depression, and sleep disruption.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy provides concrete skills for managing strong emotions, improving distress tolerance, and handling interpersonal challenges. It is helpful when emotion regulation and relationship skills are a concern.
Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will listen to your goals and try different strategies to see what fits. Together you will adjust methods based on what helps in daily life and what feels manageable.
If you are considering online sessions, confirm the current session formats before booking. The practical benefits of remote work often include easier scheduling around school or work, options for a shorter check-in, and fewer travel demands. Some formats require less bandwidth or a phone connection, which can make fitting therapy into a busy routine simpler. Ask about available formats when you schedule so you can pick what works best for your needs.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
7+ years
Credentials
Minnesota, Iowa, Massachusetts
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns does this therapist address?
He works with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, ADHD, addictions, sleep problems, grief, parenting strain, anger, self-esteem, career transitions, and related issues listed in his profile.
How would you describe his therapeutic style?
His style is practical and collaborative. He listens to your story, sets goals together, and teaches coping strategies to try between sessions.
What is his professional background?
He holds a PhD in Developmental Psychology and has seven years as a practicing therapist plus many years of coaching experience in various settings.
Where is he located and what are his credentials?
He practices in Minnesota and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with MA LMFT and MN LMFT listed in his profile.
Which languages are supported for sessions?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people outside the U.S. work with him?
He is not accepting international clients at this time.
How are sessions scheduled and what does it cost?
Cost varies by location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time. Specific fees depend on the subscription plan and scheduling choices.
How do I begin working with him?
Click the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule according to the therapist's availability.