Your Best Is Yet to Come!

Professional Mental Health Therapist | Lewistown | Mifflintown

Supportive Mental Health Therapist

Today, you are one step closer to a new you. We help you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being.

 

Brighter Visions Counseling is uniquely prepared to provide help with either mental health or addiction and substance abuse problems. Our staff is highly trained and has earned advanced degrees in mental health counseling as well as addiction psychology. They have also lived for many years in the local communities that we serve and are familiar with all types of resources.

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Meet Dr. Fred Benner

With 19 years of experience as a therapist, Dr. Benner works with a broad spectrum of clients. Among his areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, and addictions. Dr. Benner earned his Ph.D. in Psychology from Capella University. In addition, he has presented at national conferences and to health education audiences speaking on the topic of Medication Assisted Treatment for opioid dependence.


Dr. Benner’s approach utilizes elements of cognitive-behavioral, spiritual, and twelve-step therapies to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. He integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, he works with each individual to help him or her build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.

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Jeffrey Birch

Meet Jeffrey Birch, M.S. – Drug & Alcohol Counselor

Jeff earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology and a focus on Social Psychology at Lock Haven University. He then earned his Master of Science degree, specializing in substance abuse counseling, at Grand Canyon University. Jeff is skilled in all aspects of substance abuse recovery and continues to work alongside many local community recovery programs.

 

In his therapy approach, Jeff utilizes an eclectic mix of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational enhancement therapy (MET), which focuses on changing one’s thoughts and behaviors while being therapeutic with the client in order to bring about, rather than force, change within the self.

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Meet Susan Taylor, MA, LPC – Mental Health and Drug & Alcohol Counselor

Susan is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in mental health and drug and alcohol counseling with both adolescents and adults. Susan earned a Bachelor of Arts at Bloomsburg University with majors in Social Work and Psychology and a minor in Families, Children and Youth. Susan later earned a Master of Arts in Counseling from Wake Forest University. Susan has over 25 years working with adolescents in a variety of environments. She also specializes in substance abuse disorders and trauma.

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Turning Your Troubles Into Triumph

Therapeutic intervention proves to be a potent catalyst for individual development and emotional recovery. At Brighter Visions Counseling, our counseling services provide a myriad of advantages, such as heightened self-awareness, refined communication abilities, and a profound comprehension of your thoughts and emotions. Our adept therapists will actively engage with you in a collaborative effort to formulate a customized strategy to tackle your distinct challenges. Reach out to us now to arrange your session and embark on unlocking your complete potential.

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Personalized Mental Health Support

Discover the transformative power of personalized mental health support with Brighter Visions Counseling. Our expert team is dedicated to tailoring our services to meet your unique needs, providing a highly individualized approach to your emotional well-being. Imagine a therapeutic journey crafted just for you, where every session is designed to address your specific challenges, nurture your strengths, and guide you towards lasting positive change. With Brighter Visions Counseling, you're not just a client; you're an individual with distinct aspirations, and we're here to support your journey towards a happier, healthier mindset. Elevate your mental health experience; choose personalized support that makes a difference.

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Access Quality Addiction Counseling

Embark on a journey to recovery and rediscovery with Brighter Vision Counseling's addiction counseling services. Our compassionate and experienced counselors are dedicated to guiding you through the complexities of addiction, offering personalized support tailored to your unique journey. At Brighter Vision Counseling, we believe in a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of addiction, fostering lasting transformation. Our evidence-based techniques and empathetic guidance create a safe space for healing, empowering you to break free from the chains of addiction. Take the first step towards a brighter, healthier future – choose Brighter Vision Counseling for comprehensive addiction counseling that brings hope and renewal.

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Proven Holistic Counseling Techniques

At Brighter Vision Counseling, our commitment to holistic well-being is at the core of our approach. We blend physical, spiritual, and emotional therapies to address the multifaceted nature of personal challenges. Collaborating with medical professionals, we prioritize physical health, recognizing its profound impact on mental and emotional stability. Simultaneously, we respect and incorporate diverse spiritual beliefs, providing a space for individuals to explore and strengthen their spiritual connections. Emotionally, our experienced therapists create a personalized and supportive environment, empowering clients to enhance problem-solving skills and navigate life's stressors with resilience. With a tailored approach, we aim to facilitate meaningful personal growth, empowering individuals to lead fulfilling and thriving lives.

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Contact Brighter Visions Counseling

Have a question? We’re here to help. Send us a message and we’ll be in touch. 

Frequently Asked Questions

We've answered some of our most common inquiries below.

  • Why is Brighter Visions Counseling so popular?

    Discover why Brighter Visions Counseling stands out as a leading choice for individuals seeking transformative mental health support. Our team of dedicated mental health therapists is at the heart of our popularity, bringing expertise and compassion to every session. As you embark on your journey with Brighter Visions, you'll find that our mental health therapists prioritize your well-being, tailoring their approaches to address your unique needs. Our popularity is not just a testament to our skilled mental health therapists but also to the personalized care they provide, ensuring you feel heard and supported throughout your healing process. At Brighter Visions Counseling, our commitment to excellence shines through in the exceptional quality of care you'll receive from our experienced mental health therapists. Elevate your mental health experience with us, where our team of dedicated mental health therapists is ready to guide you toward a brighter, healthier tomorrow.

  • What services do you offer?

    Areas of specialization include:


    For age 14 to senior citizens:

    • Mental health counseling
    • Drug and alcohol counseling
    • Faith-based approaches
    • Therapy for depression, grief, and anxiety
    • Therapy for adjustment to lifespan issues
    • PTSD, stress management, anger management
    • Addiction & recovery services
    • Intensive outpatient group
    • Substance abuse evaluations
    • Opioid abuse evaluation, counseling, and referral for MAT (medication-assisted treatment – buprenorphine, vivitrol, methadone)
    • Substance abuse treatment for court-mandated individuals
    • Couples and marital counseling
    • Help for family members of addiction
    • Parenting education, especially when addiction is present

    Brighter Visions Counseling has acquired full licensure by PA Dept of Drug/Alcohol Programs as an outpatient D/A Facility.

  • I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?

    Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then.You already have some strengths that you’ve used before, and for whatever reason, they aren’t working right now.  Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.

  • What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

    The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, if you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

  • Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

    Medication can be effective in reducing acute symptoms, but alone cannot solve all problems. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deep into your behavior and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals.

  • How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?

    Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs and interests.

  • How long will it take?

    Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place.

  • I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

    I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication is crucial to your success. After all, we only see each other for a session a week. It’s the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you see your personal growth and development.

  • My partner and I are having problems. Should we be in individual counseling or come together?

    If you are concerned about your relationship, and you would both like to work with me, I would initially work with both of you together. After this work, if one of you would like to continue in individual sessions, I could work with only one of you. It is not helpful to move from individual into couple’s work with the same therapist because of potential trust issues.

  • What's the best way to contact you?

    You can reach us by calling 717-320-2303, emailing drfbenner@gmail.com, or using the contact form here on our site. 


    We can't wait to hear from you!

Mental Health Therapist

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