Dr. Bente Skau

Bente Skau is a Registered Social Worker and psychotherapist who works with individuals, couples and families seeking support with relationship challenges, life transitions, and patterns of conflict or disconnection. She helps partners and family members improve communication, rebuild trust, navigate differences, and strengthen their relationships in the face of everyday stressors, major life changes, and longstanding relational dynamics. Her work is grounded in the belief that relationships are central to wellbeing and that meaningful change is possible when people feel heard, understood, and supported in addressing difficult issues together.

In her couples and family work, Bente supports clients with concerns such as recurring arguments, emotional distance, parenting challenges, blended family dynamics, boundary-setting, and the impact of past experiences on present relationships. She works with people who have been hurt in relationships as well as those who want support in understanding and changing patterns that may be causing harm or strain. Her approach is collaborative and balanced, helping clients take responsibility for their role in relational dynamics while also recognizing the broader contexts that shape behaviour and connection.

Bente also has specialized expertise in the treatment of sexual abuse, including adolescents who have engaged in sexual offending (including sibling sexual abuse) or those who have been sexually harmed, and brings extensive experience working with adolescents and families affected by trauma. She supports individuals and family systems in rebuilding safety, stability, and self-worth through trauma-informed, developmentally attuned care. This background informs her work with couples and families more broadly, particularly when past trauma, attachment injuries, or intergenerational patterns are influencing current relationships.

Her therapeutic approach integrates Narrative, Existential, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). She believes that people are not their problems and that many difficulties arise from structural issues, social narratives and past experiences rather than personal flaws. Through narrative and existential approaches, Bente helps clients examine the stories they hold about themselves and their relationships, explore meaning and values, and identify strengths that can support change. When appropriate, CBT is used to develop practical skills, improve communication, and create more sustainable ways of thinking, relating, and responding to challenges.

Known for her warmth, curiosity, and thoughtful directness, Bente offers a respectful and supportive space while also encouraging clients to engage honestly with difficult topics. She understands that reaching out for help can feel vulnerable, especially when relationships are strained. Clients are invited to move at their own pace as they work toward healthier connections and a more intentional family or relational life.

Bente offers a free 20-minute consultation to help individuals, couples, and families determine whether her approach is the right fit for their needs.