Therapists serving clients in Kensington, MN

After being successful for 17 years in corporate America, I made the drastic decision to change careers and follow my passion. This lead to my attending graduate school 15 years ago and obtaining my Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work. I am licensed in the state of Minnesota as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and have worked in the field of mental health for the past 12 years. I have had the privilege of providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families – adolescents and adults struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, family conflict and attachment, relationship issues, and life transitions. In addition, I have experience in crisis risk assessment, suicide ideation, training coping skills, and providing psycho-education. I have experience providing therapeutic services to individuals from various socio-economic backgrounds in both urban and rural settings. This has included providing mental health services to homeless young adults in a large urban setting, doing in-home family counseling in a rural community, providing family and individual therapy in a suburban mental health clinic, and assessing suicide risk in a hospital emergency department. What I have found is at the heart of all individuals regardless of race and ethnicity, religion, social status, gender identity, or sexual orientation is the desire to live their best lives. I believe we are all experts on ourselves. We may not fully understand why we feel the way we do, what our next steps should be, or how to deal with a particular situation. I believe my role as a therapist is to come along side whoever I am working with to help them in discovering the answers to these questions and assisting them in reaching their goals. I do this by listening, really listening, so I can truly understand. I think the relationship between the therapist and individual is of primary importance. Therapy should be a partnership between the client and therapist. There has to be trust in the relationship. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental place where each person feels heard, understood, supported, and helped. I believe each person is multi-dimensional with his or her own reasons for seeking out help. I work towards customizing my therapy for the individual and their particular needs. I am trained in and pull from several different therapeutic models; Cognitive Behavior, Dialectical Behavior, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic, Trauma Focused, and Mindfulness among other modalities. Again, I believe the relationship between therapist and individual is crucial to the success of any therapeutic model. In addition to my training and education in the mental health field I bring life experience and humor to the work I do with individuals. I believe humor is one of our greatest resources. I personally have experienced challenges and transitions in my own life. My philosophy is that life is like floating down a river on a raft. Sometimes the river is calm and the sun is shining down on us while we just bask in the rays. What we don’t know is what is around the next bend in the river. We may be facing rocks, rapids, and turbulence. The goal is to just stay on the raft no matter what is coming next. Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. If I sound like the type of counselor/therapist you are looking for, I would love to work with you. If not, it is my hope that you find the best fit to address your needs.

As a licensed marriage and family therapist and life coach with over 20 years experience, my ultimate goal is to help you uncover your full potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to release negative emotions and resolve challenges in your life that are preventing you from attaining your personal goals. By applying complimentary therapeutic approaches, I share knowledge and skills that will create a more joyful and happy life for both individuals and couples. In this turbulent time of confusion, worry and sadness that you may be experiencing, (due to problem with life stressors, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss), I can offer you new tools and guidance to attain inner strength and confidence, have more loving relationships and a happier life. Utilizing cognitive behavioral, solution focused, mindfulness and positive psychological approaches, I specialize in a holistic approach to help people find new solutions to recover from the negative consequences of difficult life transitions and/or relationships. If you are seeking greater self confidence, joy, peace and contentment in your life, maybe it's time for a different approach and a new breakthrough! Let's work together to create a plan to meet your unique and specific needs.I am here to support and empower you, and really do understand what you are going through, and can help. I look forward to hearing from you!

I have fourteen years of experience providing individual, group, family, and couples therapy to clients of all ages. I use a variety of methods in my work including EMDR, CBT, Trauma Informed Practice, Solution Focused Therapy Methods, Narrative Therapy, and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy. I use a social justice orientation and recognize the impact of social stressors on the lives of individuals. I also use a systems approach to understanding and intervening in any problems faced by my clients. I use a collaborative approach and start first by listening to understand. I am certified in Teletherapy.

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Minnesota with over 30 years of experience working with kids, young adults, parents, and families, most of whom have been involved in child welfare service systems. I have experience helping adults and kids who are struggling with issues of safety, meeting basic needs, activities of daily living, parenting, or needing connections to their community. I am also especially adept at helping teens and young people transitioning into adulthood plan for their futures regardless of their previous experiences. I have been a college professor for over ten years and help people of any age who are looking at higher education options or struggling to meet personal, social, and educational requirements in college situations. As a helper, I focus on treating everyone with dignity and worth, and listen nonjudgmentally regardless of the situation. I try hard to really understand the person as well as the context within which their problems exist. I primarily use solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapy methods. Most importantly, interventions are tailored to what is important to the people I am working with. Every session ends with a plan to take a step forward and create long term changes. I look forward to meeting you and supporting you in starting your best life!

So, I’ve been around the block. Twenty-five years in blue collar/ heavy industry working as a millwright. Going through the process of understanding myself around issues around of depression, anxiety, addiction, failed relationships, dissatisfaction with my place in life. Frustration with not living up to my potential, often not realizing my potential, and too often on the path of desperation. The journey has taken me to my current situation. I am a Masters level Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a life time of experience in that process of becoming. Learning the tools of understanding and building a stronger foundation of personal growth! I am also a professional singer & photographer, part of my emerging creative potential. I believe we all have a gift. As Picasso stated: “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away”. My passion is guiding others toward that same journey of continued self-discover: working through the impasses, the resistance to personal growth. I have many tools in my toolbox: • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) With a focus on mindfulness • Cognitive-behavioral Therapy (CBT) Working through programmed patterns of thoughts, feelings, beliefs & behaviors that develop into a recurring cycle. • Anger Management • Trauma-informed Therapy Trauma-informed care shifts the focus from “What’s wrong with you?” to “What happened to you?” • Somatic-focused Therapy. Specialties Mindfulness • Spirituality • Stress, Anxiety • Self esteem • Depression • Coping with life changes • Sports & Performance If this is a direction you want to go then I believe we can go on that journey together.

I am licensed in Minnesota with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Hello! My name is Tonya and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Originally from Chicago, I earned my MA from University of Chicago in 1998, and since then I have worked in a variety of therapeutic settings including domestic violence shelters, a foster care/adoption agency, and a parenting organization as well as managing a private practice where I currently reside in North Carolina. I work with clients affected by depression, anxiety, life changes, trauma and parenting and relationship challenges. My approach to therapy is client-centered: clients are the experts on their lives and determine the direction and depth of therapy. Through a strengths-based and solutions-focused lens, I draw on multiple treatment modalities to guide clients in identifying strengths and developing treatment plans that accomplish their goals. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I assist clients in exploring relationships among thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to aid in discovering dysfunctional thought patterns leading to self-destructive behaviors and beliefs. Using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I support clients through developing skills: mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotion regulation with the goal of moving clients towards a life involving the capacity for experiencing joy and freedom. Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy cycling, swimming, reading, knitting, cooking, and spending time with my family and friends.

I am a Master’s level psychologist (MA, LP) with over 26 years of experience helping individuals of all ages navigate challenges and improve their emotional well-being. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, and I design my therapeutic techniques to suit each client's unique needs. Experience: - Skilled in working with adults dealing with mood disorders, anxiety, stress, and major life changes. My goal is to provide a safe space for clients to explore their feelings and develop effective coping strategies. - Extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and parents, addressing a range of issues including anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, ADHD, and peer relationship difficulties. - Proficient in supporting individuals on the autism spectrum, particularly those struggling with anxiety and depression. I understand the complexities of autism-related challenges and work collaboratively to improve overall well-being. Evidence-Based Modalities: - Exposure Response Prevention: I utilize this technique to help clients gradually confront their fears and anxieties in a controlled manner, leading to reduced distress and increased resilience. - Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT): By identifying and challenging negative thought patterns, I assist clients in transforming their behaviors and emotions, fostering positive change. - Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT): I guide clients in embracing their emotions and values while developing mindfulness and acceptance skills to manage distress. - Solution-Focused: Through goal-oriented conversations, I help clients identify strengths and practical solutions to their challenges, promoting a sense of empowerment and accomplishment. - Experience in Christian Counseling: In addition to my expertise in evidence-based modalities, I am well-versed in integrating Christian principles into therapy for those who seek a faith-based approach. I have supported individuals and families in aligning their spiritual beliefs with their mental and emotional well-being, while fostering a holistic sense of healing and purpose. Whether you're looking to explore your faith in the context of therapy or simply integrate your spiritual values into our sessions, I am here to provide guidance and support every step of the way. Approach: I believe that a warm and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where clients feel heard and understood is essential for growth and well-being. My integrative approach draws from various therapeutic modalities, allowing me to design treatment plans that suit each individual's unique needs. Taking the first step towards healing is commendable, and I am here to support you on your journey to a happier and healthier life. Together, we will work towards building a foundation that will contribute to lasting emotional growth and well-being. Experience and Education: Mayo Clinic, Department of Psychology – 24 years; Compassion Counseling Center – Supervisor at this Christian Lay Counseling Center—10 years Master of Arts in Counseling and Psychological Services from St. Marys University of Minnesota; Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology from South Dakota State University.

Are you anxious, stressed, struggling with life transitions or "stuck" in a situation you don't know how to change? Then you have already taken the first step in making a positive change for yourself and your family by visiting this website! I work with adults and couples as well as children, teens and their families. As a therapist, I seek to provide a relaxed, nonjudgmental, nurturing environment where you can learn, find insight, solve problems, and develop new ways of thinking and feeling.

I am licensed in Minnesota with 24 years of professional work experience. I offer a safe space to explore and express problems, obstacles, and successes, discover potentials, priorities, and solutions, and achieve goals and dreams. Alongside my clinical training in counseling, I am trained and hold a certificate in Art therapy. Art expression is particularly beneficial when verbal expression becomes difficult. I have specialized experience with people who have emotional, behavioral, and cognitive problems, as well as neurodivergent identities and serious and persistent mental illnesses. I am currently offering additional late night telehealth appointments from 8pm until 5am for individuals who are in a later sleep schedule due to work schedules or natural sleep patterns.