Our Therapists

Brian P. Ellis, PLMHP, PLADC

Contact: bellis@mwforall.com

Brian is a provisionally licensed mental health practitioner and a provisionally licensed alcohol and drug counselor practicing in Lincoln, Nebraska. Brian graduated from the University of Nebraska—Lincoln in 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in philosophy. In 2023, Brian earned a Master of Arts degree in mental health counseling from Doane University.

Brian has had the privilege of working with a diverse client population, addressing a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), personality disorders, anger problems, autism spectrum disorders (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), problematic sexual behavior, career challenges, and substance use disorders. His expertise lies in men’s issues, substance use issues, and existential or philosophical concerns.

Brian approaches therapy from a holistic perspective, and he recognizes the unique journey each person is on. His primary therapeutic modalities include rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT) and existential therapy, however, he is adaptable in his approach, and frequently integrates other evidence-based approaches to meet the specific needs and preferences of his clients.

Intro

Hello, and thank you for considering me as your therapist. I believe that much of our suffering stems from the ways we think about things. Through critically examining how we think, we can replace unhelpful ways of thinking with rational and helpful ways of thinking—leading to healthier emotions and behavior. In therapy, we will explore this and other possible solutions to address your concerns effectively. If you are apprehensive about starting therapy, rest assured that my aim is to provide a confidential and non-judgmental space where you will feel comfortable. You are in ultimate control of the direction your therapy takes.

I specialize in addressing men’s issues; however, I am passionate about working with clients of all genders and identities. My qualifications allow me to assist with a wide range of mental health issues, substance use problems, or career-related concerns. I am also comfortable delving into deeper existential or philosophical issues if that interests you.

If you are turned off by traditional approaches to counseling or what you think counseling typically looks like, you might prefer my approach. I utilize rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT)—which is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)—and existential therapy. This combined approach is practical, present-focused, and often philosophically engaging—meaning that we may spend some time looking into your beliefs, values, and your sense of meaning or purpose in life. I am also flexible and open to accommodating those who prefer other approaches.

Qualifications

  • In Practice for 2 Years
  • Membership with National Philosophical Counseling Association,, #1235, 2023 — 2024
  • Degree/Diploma from University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, 2017
  • Attended Doane University, Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling, 2023

I have worked with a diverse client population to address a variety of mental health problems using evidence-based approaches to therapy (REBT, CBT, cognitive-existential, mindfulness-based, etc.). I am committed to universal compassion and unconditional acceptance of all persons, both in my personal and professional life, which means you’ll find a safe, non-judgmental space in my office.

Specialties and Expertise

Top Specialties

  • Men’s Issues
  • Existential or Philosophical Concerns
  • Substance Use Concerns
  • Anxiety Disorders

Expertise

  • Addiction
  • ADHD
  • Alcohol Use
  • Anger Management
  • Antisocial Personality
  • Anxiety
  • Autism
  • Behavioral Issues
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Borderline Personality (BPD)
  • Career Counseling
  • Depression
  • Dual Diagnosis
  • Eating Disorders
  • Emotional Disturbance
  • LGBTQ+
  • Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
  • Personality Disorders
  • Problematic Sexual Behavior
  • Stress
  • Suicidal Ideation
  • Trauma and PTSD

Client Focus

Age

Preteen, 

Teen, 

Adults, 

Elders (65+)

Participants

Individuals

Communities

Bisexual Allied, 

Intersex Allied, 

Little Person Allied, 

Open Relationships Non-Monogamy, 

Queer Allied, 

Sex Worker Allied, 

Sex-Positive, Kink Allied, 

Transgender Allied

Religion

Secular and Non-Religious

Treatment Approach

Types of Therapy

  • Biofeedback
  • Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
  • Compassion Focused
  • Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
  • Existential
  • Integrative
  • Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)
  • Philosophical counseling / logic-based therapy
  • Rational Emotive Behavior (REBT)
  • Schema Therapy
  • Stoic therapy

I primarily use rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT), a type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and existential therapy. With REBT we will look at how your thinking affects your emotions and behaviors, and we will work together to challenge unhelpful beliefs and replace them with rational/helpful beliefs. With existential therapy we will explore meaning and living by your own values.

Insurance

  • BlueCross and BlueShield
  • Medicaid
  • Molina Healthcare
  • Nebraska Total Care
  • Optum
  • UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

Tags:

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