Claire Barone, MA, PCLC
Starting therapy can feel intimidating — especially when you're carrying emotional weight and unsure where to begin. I’m Claire, a therapist at Little Bear Counseling, and I work primarily with individuals who are navigating stress, transitions, and relationship challenges.
I believe therapy is most impactful when it feels collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in trust. My goal is to create a space where you can slow down, reflect, and reconnect with your own insight and capacity for change.
My Approach: Client-Centered, Insight-Oriented & Grounded in Warmth
My work is rooted in a person-centered approach that honors each client’s lived experience, emotional landscape, and inner strengths. Whether I’m supporting someone through a major life shift, grief, relational tension, or depression, I approach therapy as a shared journey — one that unfolds at your pace.
​
I primarily support individual adults and teens, but also enjoy working with couples and families. In couples work, I help partners improve communication, identify stuck patterns, and reconnect with each other from a place of emotional safety and mutual understanding.
Specialties & Focus Areas
I provide counseling for:
-
Adults and teens navigating life transitions or emotional overwhelm
-
Depression and low mood
-
Communication struggles and relationship concerns
-
Couples seeking reconnection and better emotional communication
-
Clients seeking clarity, meaning, and personal growth
-
Families working to improve connection and emotional safety
Therapy Modalities I Use:
-
Person-Centered Therapy
-
Trauma-Informed Approaches
-
Existential Therapy
-
Emotionally Focused Therapy (in training)
About Me
I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Montana and my undergraduate degree in Communications from Gonzaga University. I’m passionate about helping individuals make meaning, feel more grounded, and better understand the patterns that shape their emotional world.
Originally from the Pacific Northwest, I feel lucky to now call Montana home. Outside of the counseling room, I love long bike rides, sun-soaked afternoons, and the quiet moments that reconnect me to joy.
Therapy in Belgrade — In-Person & Telehealth Options
I offer in-person sessions in Belgrade and virtual therapy across Montana. While I primarily support individual adults and teens, I also welcome couples and families into the therapeutic process with care and curiosity.
Ready to Begin?
If you're ready to take the next step toward healing or personal growth, I’d be honored to support you.
Contact me directly at claire.littlebearcounseling@gmail.com or 406-414-7156.
Or reach our admin team at 406-356-6351 or littlebearcounselingbozeman@gmail.com
In-network with most insurances (note: couples therapy is typically not covered).
Rate: $180/session
Now accepting new clients!
Qualifications
-
Education: B.A. in Communications, Gonzaga University
-
Master’s Degree: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, University of Montana
-
Specialties: Depression · Life Transitions · Communication Difficulties · Relationship Struggles · Couples · Teen Therapy · Family Support
Contact
I'm looking forward to talking with you.
Let's connect.