Family therapy and counseling in Montana

I have been a social worker of over 20 years and have worked will most population including elderly, hospice, disabilities and children. I have studied significantly Cognitive Behavior Therapy. I have empathy for all individuals and like to assist individuals in developing health and wellness.

The human experience is overwhelming. I am here to help people navigate transitions with resilience. With over a decade of clinical experience, I work with clients to strengthen their sense of self-worth and the ability to thrive in an ever-changing world. I support clients in understanding unique trauma and its impact, while providing a safe environment to explore feelings, develop coping strategies, and learn new skills.

I am a seasoned therapist of 30 years, and I learn something new with each individual I connect with. My goal is to address the issues of life we all face with grace, compassion and a little humor. I might not know all the answers... but together we will develop strategies to make a better life.

Having worked in community care settings, the school setting, and in private practice, my strengths are working with teenagers, individuals, adults, families, and couples experiencing challenges in relationships and connection. With 15 years of counseling experience, I offer a depth of compassion, wisdom, and appreciation for the difficulties that we all face in life. I expect my clients to engage in therapy with intent and the expectation that they will gain the skills and strategies to empower themselves to live their best lives.

Hi, I’m Elaine! I’m a Clinical Mental Health Counselor who works with adults, couples, and military families navigating life’s ups and downs. I have a Bachelors of Science in Psychology, and a Masters of Science in Marriage, Couples and Family Counseling with an addendum of Crisis and Trauma Counseling.

Many of my clients come to me struggling with relationship challenges (like communication struggles, Parenting conflicts and infidelity), trauma, PTSD, anxiety, or depression—feeling stuck, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward. My goal is to help you feel supported, understood, and equipped to create the changes you want in your life

I’ve worked in addiction counseling, treatment courts, and child protection—which means I’ve seen a lot, learned a lot, and developed a deep respect for the resilience people carry. I also happen to live with ADHD, so I have a soft spot for brains that zig when others zag. Whether you’re neurotypical or proudly outside-the-box, I love helping people untangle the messiness of life and find what works for them.

I’m Zara Hanson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for helping people reconnect with themselves, heal from the inside out, and show up more fully in their relationships.

My interest in mental health started early, rooted in a curiosity about human behavior and a desire to help others feel less alone in their struggles. I earned my undergraduate degree in Psychology and Research Psychology, followed by a Master’s in Clinical Social Work with a focus on both direct therapy and systems-level care. Over the years, I’ve worked across a range of settings—from community mental health to private practice—supporting individuals, couples, and families navigating complex emotional terrain.

My practice focuses on trauma, neurodivergence (including ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder), substance use, mood disorders, relationship conflict, and emotional dysregulation. I’m especially drawn to working with clients who want to make sense of their story, process unresolved experiences, and find a more grounded, authentic way of being. I also work with couples to deepen connection, repair trust, and build more effective communication.

Therapy with me is relational, honest, and insight-driven. I aim to meet you exactly where you are, while gently encouraging growth, curiosity, and self-compassion along the way.