Thomas Bentley, LCSW - Therapist in Florida

About Thomas

Thomas Bentley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Florida. He focuses on practical help for issues like addictions, parenting concerns, anger, self-esteem, relationship stress, trauma and sleeping difficulties. He writes plainly and aims to make therapy feel approachable for people who are nervous about starting.

Thomas emphasizes clients' strengths and asks questions to understand what matters most to each person. In sessions he uses straightforward tools rather than jargon.

Background and approach

He draws on client-centered techniques that follow the person's lead, and on cognitive behavioral methods that look at thoughts and actions. He also incorporates dialectical behavior therapy skills and mindfulness when helpful, and uses motivational interviewing to support change. Together these approaches help with coping, behavior changes, and managing strong feelings.

Thomas has four years of professional experience as a social worker and holds the Florida Licensed Clinical Social Worker credential - FL LCSW SW20093. He values concrete steps and measurable goals while respecting each person's pace. Parents and caregivers looking for clear strategies may find his style useful.

Therapy sessions can include talking through daily challenges, practicing new skills, and building plans for small changes. He invites clients to identify specific goals and works with them to create a path forward. The tone in sessions is supportive and direct, focused on real-life problems and solutions.

To begin, Thomas asks people to consider what they hope to change and what feels most urgent. He partners with clients to track progress and adjust the plan over time. The work aims to make everyday life feel more manageable and purposeful.

How therapeutic approaches translate online

Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening and following the person's lead. Online sessions let the therapist ask questions, reflect what is said, and help clients explore what matters most to them. This approach helps when someone needs space to be heard and to sort priorities.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, looks at the links between thoughts, feelings, and actions and teaches concrete skills to change unhelpful patterns. In remote sessions CBT can include setting small homework tasks, reviewing progress by video or text, and practicing new ways of thinking between meetings.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills are practical tools for handling strong emotions and improving distress tolerance. Online work can introduce those skills through short teaching, role play in session, and reminders via messaging to reinforce practice.

Finding the right approach is part of the work together. The therapist will talk with the client about goals, preferences, and what feels most useful. That collaborative process helps choose which methods to try and when to adjust them.

Online sessions offer flexibility through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging. This range makes it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules, revisit topics between meetings, and use the formats that feel most comfortable. The focus is on making practical progress using the communication methods that work best for each person.

Client-Centered Therapy

The direction comes from you rather than from a set programme. The therapist offers a warm, non-judgemental space to think out loud and work at your own pace. Online, this rests on the relationship rather than on being in the same room.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT looks at the link between what you think, how you feel, and what you do. You work on noticing unhelpful patterns and practising steadier responses. It suits online sessions well, because much of the work happens between appointments and can be talked through from anywhere.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Concrete skills for riding out strong emotion, tolerating distress, and handling relationships without things escalating. The skills are practised in daily life, so between-session support by message or phone fits naturally.

Frequently asked questions

What kinds of concerns does this therapist help with?

He works with issues such as addictions, parenting challenges, anger, self-esteem, coping with life changes, trauma and sleeping problems, plus related concerns like caregiver stress and communication problems.

How would you describe his therapeutic style?

He uses a direct, practical approach that centers on the client. Sessions combine client-centered listening with CBT, DBT skills, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing as appropriate.

What is his training and experience?

He holds a Florida Licensed Clinical Social Worker credential and has four years of professional social work experience supporting people through behavioral and emotional challenges.

Where is he licensed to practice?

He is licensed in Florida as an LCSW with the license number FL LCSW SW20093.

Which languages are supported for sessions?

Sessions are offered in English.

Can I work with him from another country?

He does not accept international clients at this time.

What session formats are available?

Sessions may be conducted via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

How are fees handled and how do I start?

Costs vary with location and therapist availability and use a subscription model that can be canceled at any time. To begin, select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to the therapist's availability.

Specialties and expertise

Top specialties

Addictions
Parenting issues
Anger management

Also works with

Therapeutic approaches

Experience: 4 years
Licensed: Florida
Languages: English

Next step

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