Individual

Sara B. Schilplin, PsyD, LP

Dr. Sara Schilplin is a Licensed Psychologist who provides individual therapy and testing for adolescent and adults. Dr. Schilplin enjoys treating clients with a variety of clinical issues and specializes in treatments for adults with mood and anxiety disorders, including depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Bipolar Disorder, as well as individuals with difficulties related to life transitions, family of origin issues, relationships, LGBTQ issues, and emotion regulation. She has extensive experience conducting psychological evaluations to test for ADHD, general mental health functioning, cognitive/memory functioning, anger problems, forensic issues, and pre-surgical pain or bariatric evaluations.

In practice, Dr. Schilplin utilizes an integrated approach to therapy, drawing primarily from Cognitive-Behavioral and Object Relations theories. She takes a collaborative approach to treatment, combining her clinical expertise with the goals of the client. Dr. Schilplin believes in fitting her therapy approach to the specific needs of the individual and recognizes that different clients have different needs. In the first couple of sessions, Dr. Schilplin will work to develop some clinical impressions of you to determine the best approach for treatment. She believes that having a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s earlier relationships and life events are key to understanding a client’s current struggles, as well as the client’s perception of their struggles.

Education:

Dr. Schilplin received her doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Denver.

Experience:

She has 14+ years of experience and has worked in a variety of settings, including private practice, community mental health, a University counseling center, and a forensic mental health treatment facility. Dr. Schilplin is the founder and owner of Black Hills Psychology, which expanded from a solo practice to a comprehensive group practice in 2014.

Dr. Schilplin is also an elected member of the South Dakota State Board of Psychological Examiners.

Specialties:

• Mood and anxiety disorders
• Depression
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder
• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Bipolar disorder
• Life transitions
• Family of origin issues
• Relationships
• LGBTQ issues
• Emotion regulation
• Testing for adults
• Psychological evaluations
• ADHD
• General mental health functioning
• Cognitive/memory functioning
• Anger problems
• Forensic issues
• Pre-surgical pain or bariatric evaluations

Traci Hackmann, MA, LP

I believe people do the best they can with what they know at the time. Given the opportunity to do better, they will. The therapeutic relationship can provide that sense of safety and trust for growth and healing.

My therapeutic approach blends my background and interest in developmental psychology and social psychology. I incorporate evidence based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Client or Person Centered Therapy. My extensive work with young clients has allowed me to do attachment work, trauma-informed treatment and aspects of play therapy. The specific therapeutic process is determined by the unique, individual needs of each client.

Education:

Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from St Mary’s University

Experience:

25+ years of experience in community mental health settings including residential, children’s intensive mental health day treatment, juvenile corrections, in-home and outpatient clinics. I have provided diagnostic assessments, individual therapy, family therapy, skills training and group psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and their families.

Specialties:

• Behavior problems
• Anger management
• Emotional regulation
• Attachment work
• Cognitive Behavioral
• Systems perspective
• Trauma-informed
• Holistic
• Anxiety issues
• Life transitions

Erika Ladwig, M.Ed., LPCC

I believe in creating a safe and welcoming environment where clients feel open to exploring emotions, thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors in order to empower them to live a rich and meaningful life. I appreciate the complexity and the messiness of our journeys, and I believe each individual’s unique story offers the foundation for growth and transformation. I think that every individual is moving toward self-actualization and part of our work together is aligning our authentic self, our best self, with the life we are currently living.

Our therapeutic relationship begins with compassionate listening, which lays the groundwork for human connection and allows meaningful change to occur. Empathy in the therapeutic relationship allows us the opportunity to develop self-awareness, self-confidence, and healthy coping skills to emerge stronger and healthier in the face of life’s ups and downs.

I work with clients, primarily adults, who are struggling with major life transitions, relationships, dating, depression, and anxiety, as well as clients who are simply feeling stuck or find themself in need of a place to explore ways to align their choices with their values. I use an integrative approach to counseling, pulling from several theoretical models including Cognitive Behavioral, Humanistic, Psychodynamic, and Existentialist to help clients find a path to change that feels right for each individual.

I trust in the inherent good of all human beings and am committed to provide unconditional positive regard for every client. As a former writing teacher, I’ve always been drawn to stories, and my love of complex characters led me to a career in counseling, where I can explore the subtleties and nuances of the human condition with each of my clients. It brings me great satisfaction to empower people to write their own life story.

Education:

Master of Education and Counseling, University of Minnesota, Counseling and Student Personnel Psychology Program

Bachelor of Arts in Literature, Gustavus Adolphus College

Experience:

10+ years of counseling experience in secondary schools and private practice.

Specialties:

• Therapy and assessment
• Relationship issues
• Life transitions
• Values exploration
• Finding meaning and purpose in life
• Depression
• Anxiety

Gene Nisja, MA, LMFT

If anxiety and depression are holding you back from reaching your full potential, you are not alone. I understand how that happens to people and ways to move you to a better place. I have counseled others for more than 25 years in a variety of settings and can use what I have learned to help you replace nonproductive behaviors and propel you into reaching your full potential. If you are in a position of leading others, I am in a unique position to provide support to help you maximize your leadership role. I am on the leadership team in a hospital setting and I recently earned a Bronze Certification in Lean Process. I can assist you in understanding how to remove waste and assist your business in operating more efficiently. I can leverage my experience as a therapist and a leader. I use cognitive behavioral techniques to treat anxiety and depression. I approach therapy with humility and gratitude as a foundation of my approach.

Education:

Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology (2001), St. Mary's University of Minnesot

Experience:

Gene Nisja has over 30 years experience in the mental health field.

Specialties:

• Individual therapy
• Family and Group therapy
• Adolescents and Adults
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Specific Phobia
• School Avoidance
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Scott Guldseth, PhD, LP

Hi. There is no perfect day to start therapy. There is only the day you are ready. When stressors in our lives become overwhelming or confusing they challenge our ability to maintain the balance for which we strive. Just as each person’s struggle is patented to them, whether in their social, personal, recreation or business life, so too I strive to make my connection with them.

I have worked with people suffering from depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship issues, sexual issues, personality disorders, and many more. I embrace building rapport with my clients in a way that allows us to engage in a collaboration of unique, innovative and effective techniques to overcome the challenges, problems and/or difficulties they are facing.

While I have grounded myself in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I use all my clinical experiences, resources and flexibility to meet my clients where they are in their journey. I take pride in listening to my clients and trying to provide them thoughtful tools they can use long after our sessions are complete. This might include mindfulness work, existential questions, focus and performance exercises, and often includes movie quotes and clips, books and readings, and laughter.

Education:

Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of North Dakota

Experience:

18+ years of outpatient clinical and forensic psychology using individual, family and group modalities. 10+ years of clinical supervision of other providers for licensure.

Specialties:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Obsessive-Compulsive Issues
• Sexual Addictions
• Relationship Issues
• Increasing Behavioral Performance

Alejandra Aschittino-Rodriguez, MPS, LPCC, LADC

I believe personal agency is key to finding meaning in distressing scenarios and growing from them. I use both Existential and solution-oriented approaches when engaging with clients and strives to provide individuals and families with tools for self-awareness and self-empowerment through a mixture of theoretical models tailored to the client’s strengths and needs. I work to help clients establish more adaptive patterns of thinking with humor, empathy, and respect. While I will explore root causes of issues, I emphasize the importance of personal growth and identifying personal strengths.

I work with adults and teenagers who are experiencing life-phase transitions, substance and alcohol use, and grief and loss. I have experience in working with depression/anxiety, PTSD, and general stress management. I often utilize psychodynamic-Adlerian, existential, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills with a culturally sensitive lens to provide a personalized care based on evidence-based practices.

I will do my very best to ensure you are seen in a holistic manner and with your personal history taken into consideration while we are working together. Your dignity, safety, and self-actualization are always a priority in my work. I currently work with adults, older adolescents in individual or family therapy.

Education:

• MA in Addiction and Mental Health Counseling – University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
• BA is Psychology and Philosophy – Grinnell College, Iowa

Experience:

I worked with individuals and institutions in Ecuador, South Africa, India, and Slovenia for a research project examining the effect culture has on grief as a Watson Fellow after graduating college. Additionally, I have worked with Family Means to create intensive training regarding working with Minnesota’s minorities in palliative care and collaborated with The Hubs Center for Lifelong Learning to create an education course on Job loss and grief as the Covid-19 pandemic elevated the unemployment rates across the state and nation. My latest project is being an undergraduate instructor and mentor to undergraduate students, focusing on how cross-cultural and ethnic diversity must be considered before concluding the validity of psychological concepts or theories.

Specialties:

• Loss of meaning / “Existential anxiety”
• Spiritual and Life Issues
• Culturally Sensitive Therapy/Culturally Specific Issues
• Life’s transitions
• Grief
• Addiction
• Dual Diagnosis
• Depression
• Anxiety

Ramona Hemphill-Kent, MSW, LICSW

In my years as a therapist, I’ve learned one of the hardest and most difficult parts of the process, is getting the courage to finally reach out and ask for help. When you do, my job is to celebrate with you for making such an important choice to put yourself first, and then empower you to keep going.

I’m a huge believer that every client who walks into my office, is the absolute expert in their own lives. I’ll teach you what I know, and you’ll teach me what you know. I’m not there to provide all the answers, but I am there to walk with you while we figure it out together.

In my experience, I quickly learned that most individuals that step into a therapy room, have some sort of trauma that has impacted their life and has made it difficult to function the way they want to. Whether it be childhood trauma, a single incident that changed your life or perspective, or complex trauma that has continued throughout your life; it doesn’t have to prevent you from living your best story. I knew I wanted to be able to help those who have experienced trauma, because trauma impacts every single aspect of our lives; all the way down to our physical health.

I am most fond of Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and have found that it’s my absolute passion to be able to provide this type of therapy to those who need it. Throughout working with me, you’ll learn how trauma impacts your brain, which in turn helps you better understand your body, and ultimately, you’ll feel empowered to be able to calm and ground your mind and your body together. I’ll combine EMDR with other modalities that focus on self-esteem, attachment, empowerment, self-regulation and cognitive coping, to help you develop an eclectic set of skills that serve you in all domains of your life.

Education:

Master’s of Social Work from Augsburg College
Bachelor’s of Social Work from the College of St. Scholastica

Experience:

10+ years of experience in domestic/sexual violence and community mental health.

Specialties:

• Trauma/PTSD
• Domestic/Sexual Violence
• Women’s Issues
• Stress Reduction, Mindfulness and Relaxation Training
• Anxiety/Depression
• General mental health functioning
• Self-Esteem/Self-Empowerment/Self-Care
• Relationship Issues
• Children’s Mental Health/Behavioral Issues
• Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) - evidence based trauma therapy for children and adolescents age 3-18
• Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) - evidence based trauma therapy for adolescents and adults
• Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)

Margaret Czernia, MS, LPCC

It is my belief that therapy is not only a place to enact change and growth but a place where you can express yourself without fear of judgement; where you can explore who you are, what strengths you possess, and what values you hold. No matter what has led you to therapy, I will promote a safe space where you will be heard, respected, and supported. We each have our own story and I strive to hear what that story is for you and how it has shaped you. Change can take time and can feel scary, but we are all capable of it when given the right space and understanding.

As a therapist, I use client-centered and evidence-based practices including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to provide individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary for them to understand their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Every individual is unique and thus has unique goals when it comes to therapy. It is my goal to assist you in finding what these are and in empowering you to work towards them and live a life you find meaningful.

While working with adolescents, it is sometimes beneficial to their treatment goals to include caregivers in the process. I will uphold the trust and autonomy of my adolescent clients when meeting with caregivers by providing transparency on anything discussed with caregivers.

Education:

Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marquette University with specialization in Child and Adolescent Therapy

Experience:

Multiple years of experience in clinical settings, including residential and outpatient treatment settings

Specialties:

• Individual (Adolescent and Young Adult)
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Addictions and Dual Diagnosis
• Behavioral Problems in Childhood and Adolescence
• Emotion Regulation and Coping Skills
• Identity Exploration and Self-acceptance
• Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Biopsychosocial Approach
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

MaryBeth Ehlert, MSW, LICSW

In my therapy work, I use a blend of approaches to meet the unique needs of each person, drawing from theoretical frameworks such as psychodynamic, attachment, and systems theories while utilizing skills and techniques from areas such as mindfulness, dialectical behavior therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. My ultimate goal in combining these is to help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself and your motivations while also giving you tangible techniques to manage each difficult moment. I strive to be collaborative and non-judgmental in session, providing a safe therapeutic space to explore old patterns and create new ones.

Education:

Master of Social Work from University of St. Thomas/St. Catherine University

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from University of Minnesota

Experience:

I enjoy working with clients with a wide variety of presenting concerns, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, personality disorders, and family/interpersonal conflict. As a former Human Resource professional, I also specialize in helping clients learn to self-advocate and successfully navigate interpersonal or structural stress in their careers.

Specialties:

• Adolescent and Adult Individual Therapy
• Depressive Disorders
• Anxiety Disorders
• Family Conflict
• Mindfulness
• Emotional Regulation
• Trauma
• Eating Disorders

Kelly Gadola, MSW, LICSW

Therapy can be intimidating for many individuals, and I strive to create a warm and safe therapeutic space through building a strong rapport with each of my clients. My main goal is for my clients to feel respected and understood, as well as to develop a positive therapeutic relationship that will facilitate exploration, growth, and healing. I believe that individuals are always doing their best in any given situation and that what our best looks like can fluctuate depending on outside factors and life circumstances. I want to provide a stable, empathetic, and caring relationship where clients feel empowered to create positive change in their lives and that they can feel confident in themselves to continue doing their best.

As a therapist, I provide individual psychotherapy for adolescents, teens, and adults who are experiencing mental health concerns such as: anxiety, depression, identity/gender/sexuality exploration, trauma, school stress, and peer/relationship stress. I use a blend of therapeutic approaches including relational, strengths-based, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, narrative and EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing). I feel very fortunate to get to learn about my clients' lives and I delight in the connections that I get to make each day.

Education:

Master of Social Work- University of Minnesota

Experience:

I have experience in working with clients across the lifespan through working in schools, client homes, medical health care units and outpatient therapy settings. While a majority of my experience has been with adolescents and teens, I also greatly enjoy working with adults and children.

Specialties:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Adolescents and Young Adults
• Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing
• Stress Reduction/Mindfulness Skills
• Trauma

Costanza (Connie) Palacio, MA, LMFT, LICSW

Therapy is a journey of growth, healing and self-discovery. I would be honored to embark on your life journey by your side. Together we will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. As you get ready to start this journey, I will be there to support and empower you. I feel honored to be a part of my client’s therapeutic journey, as our problems and feelings are unique and yet we are all one and together.

I am a bilingual and multicultural Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years of experience providing in person and online therapy for individuals, couples, and group counseling.

I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, couples’ problems, sexual health and sexuality, intimacy problems, attachment, divorce separation, parenting problems, grief and loss, immigration and adjustment issues.

I have also helped many who have experienced trauma, post-traumatic stress, emotional/verbal, physical, or sexual abuse or assault.

My counseling style is warm, patient, kind and interactive. My approach combines client centered, cognitive behavioral, solution focused, trauma informed, narrative, attachment theory, emotionally focused couples therapy, Gottman, and systemic counseling.

Together we will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. As you get ready to start this journey, I will be there to support and empower you.

I feel honored to be a part of my client’s therapeutic journey, as our problems and feelings are unique and yet we are all one and together.

That is the way I like to approach our sessions, as a team, addressing challenges together to become free from judgement, criticism, pain, changing our negative perceptions, and to live a joyful and peaceful life.

For my professional growth, I read related literature, keep myself up to date with ethical and legal guidelines in the field, and the latest research and attend conferences and trainings. In my personal free time, I like to spend time with my family and our new puppy. I love traveling, playing tennis, skiing, and going to any fun event.

Education:

Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Saint Mary’s University

Experience:

• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
• Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker
• MFT Board Approved Supervisor
• SW Board Approved Supervisor
• Mediation Training
• EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) Training
• TFCBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) Training
• Prepare-Enrich Couples Certified (Pre-marital counseling)

Specialties:

• Anxiety and Depression
• Postpartum depression
• Grief
• Trauma & Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
• Attachment
• Coping with life changes
• Parenting issues
• Intimate Relationship issues
• Sexual health & Sexuality
• Domestic Violence
• Sexual abuse and assault
• Immigration and acculturalization issues

Kelly Gerzsenyi, MA, Post-Master's Fellow

“Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen.” - Brene Brown

I’m so glad you are here, and I’d be honored to be part of your journey. Life has a lot of challenges, and you don’t have to conquer them alone. You can create and live the life you want, and I will work with you to build the steppingstones to make it happen.

As a therapist, I work to create a supportive, non-judgmental, safe space where my clients can achieve the growth and healing, they are longing for. I help my clients not only talk about and gain insight into various issues but do things differently to create the change they want to see.

As a therapist, I incorporate evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy. I emphasize improving overall wellness and health as I believe the different aspects of health (i.e., physical, mental health) are all connected. I also focus on mindfulness, as I believe awareness and presence are the foundation for change.

Education:

Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Argosy University

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology from University of Minnesota

Experience:

5+ years of experience in community mental health settings including in-home and outpatient clinics.

Specialties:

• Behavior Problems
• Emotional Regulation
• Attachment Work
• Anger Management
• Cognitive Behavioral
• Systems Perspective
• Trauma-Informed
• Holistic
• Anxiety Issues
• Depression
• Codependency
• Life Transitions
• Mindfulness

Kathy Slavics, MA, LPCC

When I enter a therapy relationship, I feel honored to come along side my clients on their journey of discovery and change. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate space to focus on building strength and resilience as clients work towards their goals. As they develop knowledge, which is gained to understand, not to judge, my clients move from a place of struggle or survival to a place of thriving. I use a supportive, empowering approach and believe it is important that therapy shift from therapist support to the client being able to support themselves.

In my free time, I enjoy hiking, gourmet cooking (and eating!), photography, music, and spending time with my family and friends.

Education:

Master’s Degree from Bethel University

Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from San Jose State University

 

Experience:

Kathy has 8 years of experience as a Psychotherapist in outpatient mental health settings and 22 years of experience in hospital, long term care, and home health settings as an Occupational Therapist.

Specialties:

• PTSD/Trauma recovery
• Anxiety
• Chronic health conditions
• Chronic pain including Central Sensitization Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, and Post Exertional Malaise
• Depression
• Grief and loss
• Life adjustments and transitions
• Panic Disorders
• Parenting challenges
• Relationship difficulties

Alexandra Holt, MA, LPCC

With an integrative perspective, drawing from psychodynamic, existential, and humanistic approaches, I have a long held passion for accompanying people on their journey of self-exploration.

I believe that therapy is a means to enhancing the transformative power of self-awareness and personal agency. By making sense of how our experiences, family, relationships, values, beliefs and narratives have shaped who we are, we can discover what is getting in the way of reaching our fullest potential.

By providing a warm, safe, and non-judgemental space, I am honored to warmly collaborate and help you navigate the complexities and nuances of the inward to make sense of the outward.

Education:

Master’s Degree in Counseling and Psychological Services from Saint Mary's University

Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology

Experience:

Over 5 years of working in clinical settings, including residential, community, outpatient.

Specialties:

• Individual therapy (adults and adolescents)
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
• Trauma
• Attachment issues
• Identity exploration and self-empowerment
• Relational patterns
• Experiential
• Life transitions
• Acceptance

Kaylie Ruble, MA, LPCC

Hi, I’m Kaylie. I know choosing the right therapist can feel daunting, and finding the best fit is imperative. That’s why we will spend our first few sessions ensuring our fit as we develop a treatment plan that works for you and meets you wherever you are at.

I deeply believe that every person can live a joyful and meaningful life. If you are struggling with shame, fear, grief, or other difficulties, I want you to know that there is a life beyond the abyss of those feelings. I encourage my clients to ask questions about the therapeutic process whenever they arise, and I strive to create an environment of openness and understanding. My hope is that you feel supported to bring any and all questions or concerns to therapy. This is your hour, your therapy, your goals. I consider it a huge honor to be a part of that.

As a therapist, I utilize approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. I have worked with individuals experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), complex trauma, anxiety, depression, sexual concerns, addiction, and personality disorders, among others.

Education:

MA in Counseling Psychology from the University of St. Thomas

Experience:

Several years working in a community mental health setting, as well as outpatient clinical and forensic psychology using individual and group modalities.

Specialties:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Addiction
• Forensic Issues
• Sexual Issues
• Women's Issues

Mary Auster Shanesy, PsyD, LP

Dr. Mary Auster Shanesy is a Licensed Psychologist whose professional journey has taken her from an inner-city community mental health clinic, to a brain injury hospital, to working with the serious and persistently mentally ill, to helping incarcerated offenders, and finally to her current work with every day, average, “normal” people just like all of us. Throughout these many and varied experiences, Dr. Shanesy has focused her energies on helping individuals who want to free themselves from the suffering created by the lies that are at the heart of anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, life transitions, grief, and loss, and is the author of Becoming the Hero of Your Own Life: The Lies That Bind, and the Problem with Happily Ever After. In addition, Dr. Shanesy offers cognitive, psychological and neuropsychological testing including adult ADHD evaluations, adult Autism Spectrum Disorder evaluations, cognitive and memory assessments, and personality evaluation.

Best part of my work: Helping people realize they can live happier, healthier, and more satisfying lives.

Why I became a psychologist: I'm fascinated by the way our minds work and the incredible impact our minds have on our overall health. I am lucky to be able to do what I love.

What I tell friends and family: Keep your mind active and engaged - it is the key to better mental and physical health.

Education:

Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from the Wisconsin School of Professional Psychology

Experience:

12+ years of experience in a variety of settings including community mental health, inpatient and outpatient settings, and forensic facilities.

Specialties:

• Grief and Loss
• Substance abuse
• Relationship and communication difficulties
• Family of origin issues
• LGBTQ issues
• Hypnosis
• Cognitive, Psychological and Neuropsychological assessment

​Janet Bertolas, PsyD, Postdoctoral Fellow

I believe everyone needs support at various times in our lives. Each of us has a point in our journey where we “get stuck” and need help. My therapeutic approach is to assist you in pinpointing these obstacles that have prevented you from moving forward, to be your best self. Together we will set goals and find the tools necessary to develop the skills you need to work through your struggles. I strive to meet clients where they are at in the therapeutic process, with the understanding that each client has unique individual needs that need to be met.

Education:

Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology from Minnesota School of Psychology

Master of Science in School Psychology from University of Wisconsin Superior

 

Experience:

25+ years in community mental health, educational settings and chemical dependency facilities.

Specialties:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Autism
• Trauma
• Emotional Regulation
• Anger and Emotional Problems
• Parent/Child Dynamics
• Cognitive and Psychological Assessment

Sonali Gore, M.Ed., LPCC

There are times when we may feel bogged down and overwhelmed by life stressors thereby impacting our ability to maintain a balanced life and achieve our goals. Everyone is an expert of their own life and has unique ways of dealing with stress including when he or she may feel ready to seek help. I strive to provide a safe non-judgmental space to help individuals feel empowered to move forward when they are ready. My role is to provide unconditional support and feedback. A person-centered approach to goal setting and treatment planning helps me meet individuals where they are at. As a clinician, I use an integrative approach with a focus on Solution-focused brief therapy and Cognitive Behavior therapy. Due to my experience working with various cultures, I like to incorporate values and traditions that are meaningful to my clients into my counseling approach.

I primarily work with adults who have anxiety, depression, grief, codependency issues, relationship problems, and other work-life stressors. I also have several years of experience working in EAP, crisis, and community mental health settings.

Education:

Master of Education in Community & Agency Counseling, University of Toledo, OH

Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, University of Bombay, Mumbai, India

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, University of Bombay, Mumbai, India

Experience:

Over 20 years of experience in diverse settings such as EAP, community mental health clinics, crisis, inpatient psychiatry, as well as managed care. Expertise in providing evidence-based and culturally competent counseling services to adults, and adolescents.

Specialties:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Stress
• Codependency
• Relationship issues
• Self Esteem
• Trauma

​Melissa Kokales, MA, LPCC

The fast-paced world in which we live makes it challenging to find time for ourselves. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable and safe prioritizing “you.” This is a time for you to share your story and identify and nurture what is most important to you. I will be there to empower and support you in this process. I have extensive training in acceptance and commitment therapy and love integrating mindfulness techniques in session as well as helping you find ways to incorporate them into your day-to-day life. I am honored to walk alongside clients as they encounter both joy and adversity in their lives. I believe these moments offer opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

My approach to therapy draws from acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive- behavioral therapy, relational- cultural therapy, positive psychology, and attachment theory. Each client is unique, and I modify my approach based on your needs and preferences.

Education:

Master of Arts in Counseling and Psychological Services, St. Mary’s University of Minnesota

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, University of Minnesota

Experience:

I have clinical experience with individuals ages 6-70. I have worked with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, school/ work stressors, life transitions, people with disabilities, and parents of children with diverse needs. I have 12 years of experience in managerial/ leadership roles, and I am familiar with the stressors that accompany meeting employee and company expectations.

Specialties:

• Values exploration
• Mindfulness
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Work/school stressors
• Working with individuals of varying needs and abilities
• Adjustment and life transitions
• Grief
• Family dynamics and relationships

Patrick Koch, MA, Post-Master's Fellow

Life is full of ups and downs and I feel honored to be able to help those who are seeking counseling. I strive to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment to help my clients feel comfortable while in their counseling session.

I enjoy working with adults on an individual basis and my areas of interest are anxiety, depression, trauma, finding meaning in life, relationship conflict, school/work stress, general life stress, and life transitions. It’s never too late to make positive life changes. It’s always the right time when we decide to better our lives. I currently see clients in my office and via telehealth.

Education:

Master’s of Arts Degree in Counseling and Psychological Services from St. Mary’s University of Minnesota

Experience:

I have been working as a post-masters fellow for over two and a half years. I anticipate being independently licensed as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Minnesota by the end of 2024 or early 2025.

I have prior experience working as a Psychometrist conducting neurocognitive assessments which I did for six years before and during graduate school. 

Specialties:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Relationship Conflict
• Low Self-esteem/self-confidence
• Stress and Burnout
• Mindfulness

Ally Petersen, MSW, Post-Master's Fellow

My mission is to create a safe and supportive space where individuals can embark on a transformative journey towards emotional well-being and personal growth. I am dedicated to fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship built on trust, empathy, and respect. By developing a strong therapeutic alliance, I aim to partner with individuals in guiding them through their challenges, celebrate their progress, and support them in achieving a more balanced, fulfilling life. My approach to therapy includes client-centered practices and a compassionate approach. Each individual is unique and therefore each journey should be tailored to each client. I hope I can be a valuable asset in your own personal journey. 

Education:

Master of Social Work from Minnesota State University, Mankato.

Bachelor of Psychology from Minnesota State University, Mankato.

Experience:

Several years of experience in the behavioral mental health field. Placement in multi-disciplinary settings including both residential and outpatient. Provided therapeutic services for children through older adults.

Specialties:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Self-Identity
• Emotion Regulation
• Confidence and Self-esteem
• Communication and Conflict Resolution
• Major Life Adjustments
• Stress Reduction and Mindfulness Skills

Brianna Ball, MSW, Post-Master's Fellow

Hi! My name is Bri. I’m a pre licensed, Master’s level clinician and I know that sometimes struggling with your mental health is exhausting. I use dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and a straightforward approach to work with my clients and teach them skills that they can use to relieve some of that exhaustion. I believe that strong rapport is the most beneficial part of a therapeutic relationship, and I strive to achieve that with all of my clients. I would be honored to be a part of your mental health journey; whether it’s your first time in therapy, or your hundredth time in therapy. 

Education:

MSW from St. Cloud State University

BSW from St. Cloud State University

Experience:

I have a variety of experience; from working with adults who have substance use disorders, to working children who have eating disorders. I have worked in outpatient, PHP, residential, and inpatient settings as both an individual therapist and a group therapist.

Specialties:

• Adolescent's ages 12-17
• Eating Disorders
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
• Emotion Regulation
• Anxiety
• Depression

Holly Brannan, PsyD, Postdoctoral Fellow

My priority is to create a warm and welcoming environment where you can be your true self—free from masks, pressure, or the need to keep your guard up. I believe everyone has a unique story that shapes their experiences, behaviors, and challenges, and understanding your personal narrative is key to the work we will do together.

Drawing on my experience in settings from collegiate, geriatric residential, outpatient, and Veterans Affairs Medical Center, I have supported individuals in navigating various concerns such as anxiety, self-worth, stress management, exploring purpose, life transitions, and PTSD, among others. I understand the unique complexities of each issue and am committed to creating a safe and supportive space for you to explore your story, develop coping strategies, and gain meaningful insights.

In our sessions, you can expect to be met with respect, empathy, and compassion. My goal is for you to feel supported, heard, and valued as we pursue your aspirations. Using an integrated approach of evidence-based practices—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy—we will collaboratively create personalized goals that align with your unique path toward a fulfilling life. Together, we will weave your story into our therapeutic plan, ensuring it resonates with your individual journey.

Education:

Doctoral Degree in Counseling Psychology from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota 

Master of Arts in Counseling and Psychological Services

Experience:

Broad and diverse clinical background, with experience in geriatric residential settings, collegiate settings, community mental health, and completing an APA-accredited internship within the Veterans Affairs Medical System. 

Specialties:

• Anxiety 
• PTSD
• Body Image 
• Life Stressors 
• Life Transitions 
• Emotional Regulation
• Self-Worth/Self-Esteem