(406) 781-8581
Tom Gutschenritter, LCSW
Mental Health Therapist/ Counselor
Serving adults, children, and families
Therapeutic Approach
I have always tried to live my life with compassion and empathy for others, and over the years I have gained a positive appreciation for the diversity of individual personalities and experiences. My interest in helping others through professional counseling and therapy is a natural outgrowth of who I am. My partnerships with clients – individuals, couples, and families – is focused on helping them to explore and gain insight into their own feelings, behaviors and thought patterns.
My approach is non-directional in nature and responds to the specific needs of the client. In doing this, I am well versed in a variety of well accepted therapeutic styles including: attachment focused, mindfulness based, solution focused, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I prefer a casual, comfortable atmosphere to enable individuals of all ages to naturally discuss their needs and goals, with the purpose of achieving stability and peace in their personal, family, and community lives.
Experience
I am particularly knowledgeable about children’s disruptive behaviors and have practical experience in navigating the juvenile justice system. I help families and couples find the words to communicate feelings and thoughts about issues of concern, and I work with them to evaluate solutions and strategies that will bring positive change.  My experience stems from inpatient and outpatient therapeutic milieus.  In addition to being a private practitioner, I worked as a comprehensive school and community therapist (CSCT) for five years in Kalispell and Pablo.
Bio
I am a lifelong Montana resident, having lived in Great Falls, Missoula, Polson, and now Kalispell. I graduated from University of Montana and Walla Walla University with degrees in psychology and social work, and hold an active license in clinical social work. An outdoor sports enthusiast and athlete, I trained and fought for several years as a MMA competitor with the Great Northern Fight Club. These days I practice yoga, bike, and hunt or fish when I can. When I’m not in session, my main pursuit is family life with my wife and children.