Brenda Thonis
Brenda Thonis
(she/her)
I became a therapist because I've always been fascinated by the human mind. Starting therapy is not always easy and I congratulate you on starting your journey. I’m here to make sure that it is meaningful to you. My role is to walk alongside you—to provide a safe, supportive space where you can unpack your thoughts, explore your feelings, and reconnect with your own strength and wisdom.
Get to know me
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
Our first session will be an opportunity for us to get to know one another. We’ll discuss your background and what brings you to therapy. Therapy is a process, and we’ll continue to build our work together over time. It’s completely normal to feel nervous about your first appointment. We’ll take it one step at a time, and I’m here to guide you through each step of the process. I’m not here to “fix” you—because you’re not broken. I’m here to help you connect with your inner resources, challenge patterns that no longer serve you, and discover new ways of thinking, feeling, and showing up in your life. Clients often tell me they feel truly seen and heard in our work together—and that they leave sessions with clarity, practical tools, and a growing sense of confidence in themselves.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
What stands out about my therapeutic approach is the balance I bring between evidence-based techniques and a deeply human, compassionate presence. I use a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based strategies, and trauma-informed care—including Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Trauma-Focused CBT—tailored to each individual’s needs and goals. These methods are grounded in research, but I believe the real change happens in the context of a safe, trusting relationship. I have years of experience working with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. What makes me effective is not just my clinical training, but my deep respect for each person’s story. I meet clients where they are—with curiosity, warmth, and a belief in their capacity for growth. Whether you’re seeking relief, insight, or a fresh start, I’m here to walk alongside you at your pace, and help you move toward lasting change.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
If you’re someone who feels deeply, thinks a lot, and often carries the weight of expectations—your own or others'—you’re in the right place. Maybe you're navigating a major life transition, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or stuck in cycles of self-doubt. Maybe you’re carrying the invisible weight of past experiences or trauma and are ready to heal. You might not have all the answers right now, but you’re curious about yourself, and you’re ready for change—even if it feels a little scary. I specialize in working with individuals to navigate life transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma. You are the expert of your life, and when you are ready to begin, I will be here to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can fully express yourself, gain insight, and take steps toward personal growth.
About Brenda Thonis
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
In my practice, I use IFS to help clients develop insight and compassion toward the different parts of themselves—especially those that may carry trauma, shame, or extreme beliefs. I’ve found this method particularly effective for clients struggling with anxiety, depression, complex trauma, self-criticism, or inner conflict. Rather than suppress or “fix” these parts, we work together to listen to them, understand their protective roles, and help them unburden the pain they carry. A typical IFS-informed session involves guiding the client to connect with a particular part (such as a self-critical voice or a part that feels anxious) and developing a relationship with it from a place of Self-energy—calm, confidence, compassion. Over time, clients begin to feel more integrated, empowered, and at peace with themselves. IFS aligns well with trauma-informed care and supports deeper self-awareness and long-term healing. I've seen clients develop a more nurturing internal dialogue, increase self-trust, and resolve long-standing emotional patterns using this approach.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In my practice, I use CBT to help clients identify the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I work collaboratively with clients to examine automatic thoughts, challenge cognitive distortions, and develop healthier, more balanced thinking patterns. We also focus on skill-building, such as emotion regulation, problem-solving, and coping strategies. CBT is goal-oriented and typically short- to mid-term in duration, making it accessible and measurable for clients and families. I regularly use progress monitoring tools to assess effectiveness and adjust treatment as needed. Clients often report an increased sense of control, improved mood, and greater ability to manage challenges as a result of CBT work.
Trauma-Focused CBT
I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and have used it effectively in my practice with children and adolescents who have experienced trauma, including abuse, neglect, loss, or witnessing violence. TF-CBT is an evidence-based treatment model that integrates trauma-sensitive interventions with cognitive-behavioral principles to help young clients process traumatic experiences and develop healthy coping skills. I’ve found TF-CBT to be highly effective in reducing PTSD symptoms, anxiety, depression, and behavioral difficulties in traumatized youth. Children often report feeling more empowered, less burdened by their trauma, and more confident in managing difficult emotions.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
I incorporate mindfulness-based approaches regularly in my clinical work, drawing from models such as Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). Mindfulness involves teaching clients how to bring nonjudgmental, present-moment awareness to their thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. This practice helps clients respond rather than react to stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges. In my practice, I use mindfulness-based techniques to support clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma responses, and emotional dysregulation. I teach simple, age-appropriate exercises such as mindful breathing, body scans, grounding techniques, and guided imagery. These tools help clients develop internal awareness, increase emotional regulation, and build tolerance for distress. For children and adolescents, I often integrate mindfulness into play or creative activities—such as using glitter jars, breathing with stuffed animals, or noticing five senses to stay grounded. With teens and adults, we may practice seated meditation, mindful journaling, or thought observation techniques to develop a more compassionate and accepting relationship with internal experiences.