Martin V. Bendernagel

Advocate Counseling SA is a private practice dedicated to providing a safe and compassionate space for individuals, couples, and families seeking healing and growth. Founded by Martin V. Bendernagel, LPC, LCDC, a therapist with extensive experience in law and counseling, the practice is uniquely positioned to address the multifaceted challenges life presents.

We understand that life's journey can be fraught with pain and complexity, whether stemming from personal struggles, relationship difficulties, or past traumas. Our approach acknowledges the profound impact these experiences can have on an individual's mental, spiritual, and physical well-being. We firmly believe that healing is possible, and we strive to empower our clients to build healthier lives, stronger relationships, and a greater sense of inner peace.

Martin V. Bendernagel, LPC, LCDC

Martin V. Bendernagel, the founder of Advocate Counseling SA, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to guide you on your path towards healing. A Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, Martin's journey to counseling began with a desire to make a more direct impact on the lives of those in need. Having practiced law for 28 years, he witnessed firsthand the pain and suffering of countless individuals, prompting a profound shift in his career aspirations.

Inspired by his wife's fulfilling experience as a nurse caring for the seriously ill, Martin realized his true calling lay in helping people through their emotional and psychological challenges. After completing his Master of Arts in Community Counseling at St. Mary's University, Martin embarked on his counseling career, combining his legal background with his passion for helping others.

His practice is deeply rooted in a Christian worldview and emphasizes Spiritually Integrated Psychotherapy. He recognizes the significant role faith and spirituality play in many people's lives, and he approaches each client with respect for their beliefs, integrating these elements into the therapeutic process as appropriate.

Services Offered

Advocate Counseling SA offers a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals, couples, and families. Our approach is holistic, aiming to address not only the presenting concerns but also the underlying causes that contribute to distress.

Our therapy services encompass:

• Marriage, Couples, and Relationship Counseling: We provide a safe and supportive environment for couples to navigate challenges, improve communication, strengthen their bond, and cultivate healthier relationships.

• Individual Therapy: We empower individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, gain self-awareness, develop coping mechanisms, and work towards personal growth and fulfillment.

• Family Therapy: We help families address communication issues, conflict resolution, and improve their overall dynamics, strengthening family bonds and fostering a healthier environment for all members.

• EMDR Therapy for Trauma/PTSD: We utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, a proven treatment for trauma and PTSD, to help clients process past experiences, reduce distress, and heal from the emotional wounds of trauma.

• Child and Adolescent Therapy:

We provide specialized services for children and adolescents, addressing a wide range of challenges such as behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, and family stressors. Our approach is developmentally appropriate, creating a supportive and age-sensitive therapeutic space.

Our Commitment

At Advocate Counseling SA, our commitment extends beyond providing therapy. We strive to be a source of support and guidance for our clients on their journey towards a fulfilling and meaningful life. We believe in creating a collaborative and empowering therapeutic relationship, where clients feel understood, valued, and equipped with the tools they need to thrive.