Lisa OBrien, LCSW

Lisa OBrien is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 32 years of experience. She works with people who are feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, grief, addiction, or major life changes. She speaks plainly and focuses on practical steps a person can use right away.

Lisa often uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with motivational techniques and solution-focused steps. Sessions typically look at patterns of thought and behavior, and then try small experiments to change them. She also brings trauma-focused ideas when past events are affecting daily life.

Her practice covers a wide range of concerns, including depression, relationship and intimacy issues, parenting stress, self-esteem, bipolar mood concerns, and compassion fatigue. Additional areas she addresses include adoption and foster care, caregiver stress, communication problems, substance use, domestic violence, and issues tied to gender and identity.

Lisa adapts methods to each person rather than following one fixed plan. She helps clients set clear, achievable goals and checks progress regularly. Conversations are direct and focused, with steps to practice between sessions.

She offers sessions in English and works with people both in Montana and internationally. Formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. Many clients choose online sessions for scheduling flexibility and easier follow-through.

How CBT and Motivational Work Translate Online

Lisa commonly uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people notice unhelpful thoughts and test new ways of thinking and acting. That approach is useful for anxiety, depression, stress, and problems that come from repeated behavioral patterns.

She also uses Motivational Interviewing to help people clarify their reasons for change and build internal motivation. This approach is helpful when someone feels stuck about substance use, lifestyle shifts, or making difficult decisions.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist and client will talk about goals, try methods, and adjust the plan as needed. The aim is to find what fits the person’s needs and preferences, not to force a single method.

Online formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. Video sessions let the therapist and client work closely through thought exercises and skill practice. Phone sessions can be easier when bandwidth is limited or when a client prefers not to be on camera. Chat and text messaging support shorter check-ins, on-the-go problem solving, and ongoing encouragement between sessions. These options increase flexibility for people with busy schedules or those who live far from Montana.