We’re looking forward to introducing you to Brett Rein. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Brett, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
I facilitated a men’s group just last night on the topic of “flow state,” which feels fitting, because the place I access it most easily is running on trails in the mountains. No matter what’s happening in my life, I can always find that space. I almost love it more in winter, when I’m completely alone out there. Sketchy? Maybe—but the stillness, especially at night under the stars on fresh snow, feels like stepping outside of time. That’s where I realign with myself. I also find that same flow through writing, painting, or deep, meaningful conversation.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Brett, a counselor and founder of Brett Rein Therapy, where my four-legged co-therapist Harley and I help people navigate some of life’s most challenging moments. I’m a male therapist in a field with few men, and my background as an endurance athlete, teacher, restorative justice facilitator, coach, and world traveler gives me a wide lens to work with.
My practice is diverse: I work with survivors of crime through Ralston House and Crime Victim Compensation, support clients through neurodivergence, C-PTSD, athletic performance, life transitions, and high-conflict divorces, and I provide mediation and parent decision-making services. I also partner with Second Wind Fund to support youth experiencing suicidal ideation. My work revolves around helping people rediscover their strength and find stability amid chaos.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
Through my own therapy, I’ve realized that being “likable” was once a survival strategy. I carried a lot of anxiety about being rejected or ending up alone, which led to people-pleasing and self-abandonment. It left me feeling lonely even when I wasn’t alone. I’m still a work in progress, but I have firmer boundaries now and genuinely enjoy my own company. Being likable at the expense of myself is no longer a trade I’m willing to make. I’ll always choose kindness, but not at the cost of my integrity or self-respect.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I’m stubborn to a fault—I once passed out on the side of a mountain during a winter race because I refused to quit. I’ve always believed I could outwork anything.
But after years of wandering—two master’s degrees, odd jobs, living in my car, moving states, and working my way up in education—I found myself completely miserable. My first year as a school counselor during Covid was brutal, and even after switching schools, an intense relationship and ongoing burnout led to constant panic attacks. Eventually, I didn’t want to be alive anymore.
On 12/24/2021, I checked myself into a psychiatric hospital and committed to changing my life. Four years later, I’m grateful every day that I gave myself another chance. The life I have now is one I once could only dream about.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m committed to advocating for children, especially those caught in high-conflict divorces. My work has shown me how deeply parental behavior impacts kids, and how often adults project their unresolved trauma onto them. Not everyone is ready for the responsibility of parenthood, and too often the people who need support the most aren’t the ones seeking it—it’s their children who end up in therapy.
I’m dedicated to supporting every client who walks through my door, and I hope to continue contributing to legislation that protects youth and prioritizes their wellbeing during family conflict.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
I’m most at peace when my phone is on airplane mode, there are stars overhead, snow or dirt beneath my feet, and my dog is trotting beside me. I’ll always be a mountain man chasing big adventures and unexpected side quests.
I love my work as a therapist—it’s fulfilling and meaningful—but it’s also draining. When I’m unreachable and it’s just me, my dog, or a close companion, that’s when I drop into a flow state and feel completely grounded.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.brettreintherapy.com
- Instagram: milesfromordinary_ (https://www.instagram.com/milesfromordinary_/)
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brett.k.rein/
