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- CBT methods
- Client-centered work
- Existential themes
About Burton
Burton "Burt" Swaim, LCSW, is licensed in California and Utah and has 50 years of clinical experience. He focuses on stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship and intimacy issues, self-esteem, grief, trauma and coping with life changes. He describes his work as helping people identify and challenge inner barriers to personal potential and then set practical goals toward a more fulfilling life.
Burt uses an active, collaborative style. He asks clients to help set therapy goals and timelines. Sessions often include identifying thoughts, feelings and behaviors to change, and building motivation and confidence to take concrete steps outside sessions.
His background includes extensive work with alcohol and drug related problems and process addictions. He has co-produced documentary films about recovery and taught on topics such as intimacy, sexuality and recovery at university summer programs. He also contributed to public policy and educational efforts around alcoholism treatment.
Burt emphasizes goal setting and measurable progress. He helps people rebuild self-esteem and regain direction after loss, infidelity, or other major life events. Counseling may address aging and geriatric concerns, hospice and end-of-life questions, and challenges faced by veterans and those with military connections.
He frames therapy as practical and action-oriented. Clients can expect straightforward conversation about what to work on and steps to move forward. Burt and his wife have published a book on recovery themes that reflects his long-standing interest in supporting people through change.
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Therapeutic approaches and online sessions
Client-Centered Therapy focuses on the client as the expert on their own life and prioritizes respectful listening and reflective feedback. It helps people clarify goals and increase self-understanding. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, looks at the links between thoughts, feelings and behaviors and uses practical exercises to change unhelpful patterns; it is often used for anxiety, depression and addiction-related behaviors. Existential Therapy addresses questions of meaning, values and responsibility and can help people dealing with loss, aging, or major life transitions.Choosing the right approach is part of the work. The therapist collaborates with each person to decide which methods fit their goals and preferences. Sessions are adjusted over time based on progress and what the client finds helpful.
Confirm the current session formats before booking. When offered, online sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy schedule, allow shorter check-ins when needed and reduce travel time. Online work can also support continuity when life events make in-person visits difficult. Ask about the available session options and how they are scheduled to ensure they fit daily routines.
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Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
50+ years
Listed in
Utah, California
Languages
English
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Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does he address?
He works with stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship and intimacy issues, grief, trauma, anger, self-esteem and coping with life changes.
What is his therapy style like?
He practices an active, collaborative approach that emphasizes goal setting and client participation. Sessions focus on identifying thoughts, feelings and behaviors and taking practical steps forward.
How much clinical experience does he have?
He has 50 years of professional experience in clinical practice and recovery work.
Where is he licensed and based?
He holds LCSW licenses in California and Utah and practices from Utah.
What languages are supported for sessions?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can international clients work with him?
International clients are not currently accepted.
How are sessions paid for?
Cost varies by location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with him?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and then schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger, call 911, or call or text 988.