School Based Staff

Clinical Approach
Mary is a graduate of Adlerian style counseling. She likes to view the whole person including medical and social problems that could be causing symptomatic behaviors. Her approach is to use common sense type counseling to help the kids evolve between group therapy and follow up individual sessions.
Clinical Interests
Mary continues to learn Adlerian therapy whenever possible, but considers the client to the expert on who they are and myself the perpetrator of change. Mary has experience working in schools and in home therapy.

Hobbies
Outside of work Mary studies about the effects of diet on mental health, enjoys working out, ballroom dancing, cooking and crochet. She also sees the importance of making time for family and friends.

Clinical Approach
Clair aims to work with clients from a place of empathy and creativity to foster a deeper understanding of client strengths in order to promote change for the individual and by extension the family unit. She believes that every single person deserves to feel loved and a sense of belonging within their families and communities.

Clinical Interests
Clair is certified in Prepare/Enrich premarital curriculum and Psychological First Aid. She has also completed a Level 1 Gottman Training course. Clair worked with children of all ages and their families during her recent internship using structural, experiential and trauma-informed approaches based on each family’s inherent strengths and needs.

Hobbies
Clair loves snuggling up with her family watching Harry Potter, listening to music (especially live), and spending time at the Great MN State Fair!

Clinical Approach
Nikki’s approach to therapy is strengths-based and person-centered. Her favorite part of her job is building relationships with both the client and families, and helping the client in establishing a safe/supportive space for them to heal and grow.

Clinical Interests
Nikki’s clinical areas of interest include: trauma, emotional regulation, behavioral concerns and LGBTQ-specific issues/concerns. Nikki spent many years working in the public education system becoming familiar with a variety of diagnoses: ASD, DCD, FASD, PTSD, ODD, RAD, anxiety/depression, LD and EBD. She also has experience working with homeless youth and youth involved in the juvenile corrections system.

Hobbies
Nikki enjoys spending time with her partner and 2 dogs as well as playing sports and coaching a variety of activities (Adapted Soccer, Softball and Bocce [Special Olympics]). She also enjoys playing cribbage, being on a bocce ball team, reading and running in 5k races for good causes!

Clinical Approach
Kellie’s approach to therapy is strengths based and person centered. Her practice is influenced by attachment theory, trauma-informed care, and systems theory.

Clinical Interests
Kellie enjoys working with all clients off all ages and families. Her specific areas of interest include: grief and loss, family change, trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, emotional regulation, and behavior concerns.

Hobbies
In her free time, Kellie loves spending time with family, camping, swimming, traveling, reading, and drinking sweet iced coffees.

Clinical Approach
Tori’s clinical approach is present centered, collaborative, and focused on each individual’s unique experience and needs. She takes a holistic approach through incorporating breathing exercises, psycho-education, and movement into Art Therapy.

Clinical Interests
Tori works primarily with children and their families. Her areas of interest include long-term illnesses, grief and loss, anxiety, and trauma.

Hobbies
Tori enjoys participating in Yoga and Zumba, traveling, playing and watching sports.

Clinical Approach
Brent believes that the client is the best source of information about themselves and that he is a conduit to help them process the information they present. He also thinks although it helps regardless all clients are in a different state of life, as such the therapist needs to meet them where they are and work with them on the issues that they have. Brent’s believes therapy helps people process their lives in a safe comfortable setting that allows for growth and change to occur helping the client become a better person.

Clinical Interests
Brent works with children and adolescences primarily, but has experience working with all age groups.

Hobbies
Brent enjoys being with his family. He likes board games, card games, movies, and sports including basketball, football, and soccer.

Clinical Approach
Steven views issues in the context of relationships. He believes therapy is an opportunity to make a direct effort towards understanding and resolving issues that become barriers towards interpersonal or relational success and happiness.

Clinical Interests
Steven is a nationally certified TF-CBT therapist, and is also MAP certified. He enjoys supporting parents, schools, and working with adolescents 10 to 18 years old.

Hobbies
Steven’s hobbies include soccer, golf, good food, and having fun with his family.

Clinical Approach
Karen believes encouragement combined with strategic interventions creates the foundation of a good therapy experience. Her style is warm, compassionate, humorous, and honest. Karen provides Integrative Art Therapy, a holistic clinical approach, which connects clients to their innate well-being and ability to create a meaningful life.

Clinical Interests
Karen has over 24 years of experience providing integrative health in the hospital setting. She is a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Art Therapist. She has continuing education in Yoga Calm, Integral Somatic Psychology, Neurodevelopmental Art Therapy, and Adlerian Psychology. Karen is a Certified Infant Massage teacher. She works with children age 0-12 and their families. She is especially interested in the wisdom of somatic psychology to release trauma from the body and support clients to embody joy.

Hobbies
Karen most enjoys spending time in nature with friends and family, including her dog. Her hobbies include needle felting, ceramics and reading. Karen is interested in meditation and travel to expand awareness and enhance life experiences.

Clinical Approach
Elliesha has a strengths-based, person-centered, relational approach.

Clinical Interests
Elliesha loves working with middle schoolers. She is trained in art therapy and can utilize active art making, the creative process, psychological theory and therapeutic relationships to aid in enriching her clients.

Hobbies
Elliesha enjoys painting, ceramics, camping, making sculptures, attending concerts and spending time with family and friends.

Clinical Approach
Amber’s approach to therapy is trauma informed and relationship based.

Clinical Interests
Amber works primarily with adolescents between 14-18. Amber has extensive clinical experience in trauma (physical abuse, sexual trauma, neglect, complex trauma) and related issues like self-harm, emotional regulation and relationships. Amber is trained in implementing the ARC model in trauma work, balanced and restorative justice practices and mindfulness strategies.

Hobbies
Amber enjoys yoga, dance, reading and adventures with her kids.

Clinical Approach
Vanessa strives to create a safe space for people to explore the difficulties they are facing; it is not necessary to struggle alone. After listening carefully, she partners to create and implement a plan that draws on their strengths, supports, skill development, and applying new strategies in order to facilitate the change that is wanted/needed.

Clinical Interests
Vanessa works with people ages 5 through adulthood, first developing a therapeutic partnership grounded in respect, honesty, empowerment, and a shared commitment to the goals at hand. She then utilizes an eclectic approach that is overall strength-based, person-centered, culturally sensitive, and trauma-informed. Vanessa’s services are most influenced by her training and experience with DBT, TF-CBT, and Psych Rehab.

Hobbies
Vanessa enjoys meeting new people, trying new things, dancing, music, movies, and any activity that allows her to spend time in nature!

Clinical Approach
Erica enjoys Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to get a full understanding of her client’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. She also use a strengths-based approach to focus on the things that are going well in the client’s life.

Clinical Interests
Erica enjoys working with youth and adolescents. She has interned in the Day Treatment setting working with elementary, middle, and high school students using a group therapy approach.

Hobbies
Erica enjoys being outdoors (fishing, biking), spending time with family and friends, and listening to music. She also has a passion for dance which she enjoys coaching during the dance season.

Clinical Approach
Kathleen takes an integrated approach, meaning she likes to utilize strategies from several different therapeutic styles, depending on the issue at hand. She prefers to tailor her approach to each individual as much as possible. When clients are open to it, she often includes the creative arts in therapy in a variety of forms, such as drawing, playing music, or writing poetry.

Clinical Interests
Kathleen is a board-certified music therapist and has worked in that capacity for 9 years. She plays many instruments, including piano, guitar, accordion, and harp, all of which she has used in providing therapy.

Hobbies
Kathleen enjoys knitting, gardening, playing musical instruments, and tango dancing.

Clinical Approach
Samra focuses on the unique individual and uses mindfulness and emotional regulation techniques while also focusing on uncovering mistaken beliefs.

Clinical Interests
Samra works with adolescents and specialize in art therapy which uses art materials and the creative process to explore emotions.

Hobbies
Samra likes to stay active through sports such as volleyball and ultimate frisbee along with spending time with friends and family.

Clinical Approach
Christopher follows a creative approaches that provide an exploratory and healing aspect to therapy. He believes that artistic, insightful, and humorous thought benefits one's well-being.

Clinical Interests
Christopher has experience with children and adolescents in school and community settings, as well as within an Autism center.

Hobbies
Outside of work, Christopher enjoys sports, going to comedy clubs, playing board games, and cooking.

Clinical Approach
Megan joins clients in therapy with an eclectic and supportive approach to counseling, often utilizing Humanistic, Adlerian, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mind Body Skills and other evidence-based techniques. Her belief is that therapy success is based on the client-therapist relationship and openness to change.

Clinical Interests
Megan’s passion is working with children and their families, specifically with adolescents. She has experience working with the special education population in public schools, and particularly enjoys working with adolescents receiving services in Autism Spectrum programming and also those with emotional behavioral difficulties.

Hobbies
Megan loves to travel when possible. She enjoys being outside, both relaxing and trying new outdoor activities. Family time is important to her and she loves being an aunt! She is admirer of fine arts and enjoys painting, drawing, and being creative. She loves animals and one day hopes to be more involved in rescue.

Clinical Approach
Katie works from a strengths based and family systems oriented approach and therapy style which draws on various theoretical orientations.

Clinical Interests
Katie has worked with Pre-K through 8th grade and is interested in attachment solutions focused therapy work with students who have experienced homelessness, high mobility, and trauma.

Hobbies
Outside of work, Katie likes to read, hike, explore new parts of the city, and try new foods.

Clinical Approach
As a School Group Facilitator Shari provides a safe and caring environment for kids to learn and share. Using a small group setting, she provides helpful tools and teaches skills that kids can apply in everyday situations. She also provides resources for kids and families to bridge with the community.

Clinical Interests
Shari is driven by the difference our work makes and teaching lifelong skills. She is passionate about making a difference in the lives of so many!

Hobbies
Shari loves spending time with her wonderful daughters, horseback riding, the beach, reading and working puzzles.

Clinical Approach
In her work, Rachel utilizes client centered and strengths based approach. She believes in meeting a client where they are at.

Clinical Interests
Rachel has experience working with kids from 10-14 years old. Her clinical interests include anxiety, depression, emotional and behavioral disorders, and trauma.

Hobbies
Outside of work, Rachel enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, cooking, and reading.

Clinical Approach
Alyssa is a lead therapist for Lee Carlson Center. She believes in the uniqueness of each individual and is passionate about working with teenagers and their families. Pulling from their strengths and values, she enjoys helping individuals realize their full potentials.

Clinical Interests
Alyssa has worked at Columbia Heights High School for three years as well as partnered with other schools in Anoka County. Alyssa has experience supporting teenagers through anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, adjustment difficulties, and post-traumatic stress disorder. She also has experience working with adults with Serious and Persistent Mental Illness and is trained in DBT.

Hobbies
Alyssa enjoys spending time with friends and family, hiking, cooking, and skiing.

Clinical Approach
Jennifer uses a strengths-based, attachment and trauma focused lens that incorporates movement-based play, relational regulation, neuroscience, Attachment Theory, Developmental Repair Model and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Family Systems Therapy and the work and philosophies of Brene Brown.

Clinical Interests
Jennifer specializes in attachment, complex grief and loss, adoption, foster care, complex trauma and treating a wide range of symptoms and mental health diagnoses, primarily with children and adolescents. Children’s feelings, thoughts and behaviors communicate important needs and her goal is to discover those needs and help to identify healthier ways to have those needs met.

Hobbies
Jennifer likes to stay active in the outdoors through biking, hiking, kayaking or camping. She also enjoys music, summer grilling, animals and gardening.

Clinical Approach
Matthew’s approach is client centered. He works hard to meet the client where they are. Matthew also utilizes a holistic and family systems approaches. He is Adlerian trained and utilizes mindfulness based stress reduction and yoga when appropriate. Mathew also draws from CBT and DBT skills.

Clinical Interests
Matthew is trained in EMDR and works with clients who have experienced trauma. He has 18 years of experience in the mental health field working with individuals of all ages. Matthew works with individuals who struggle with anger, anxiety, attention, autism, depression and substance abuse. He also enjoys working with parents and working with family systems.

Hobbies
Matthew enjoys hiking, taking his puppy to dog parks, and yoga.

Clinical Approach
Troy’s goal as a therapist is to promote inclusive settings where students and families can find the power, wisdom, and courage to overcome obstacles.

Clinical Interests
While at the University of Minnesota, Troy specialized in working with families and children. He has worked with K-12, as well as students within the alternative school setting.

Hobbies
Troy enjoys hanging out with friends or family, video games, and the Korean Sword Art “Haidong Gumdo”.

Clinical Approach
Grace incorporates a person-centered style and often uses techniques from CBT, DBT, play therapy, and expressive arts skills.

Clinical Interests
Grace is passionate about working with children, teens, and adults with experiences of anxiety, depression, trauma, inattention, hyperactivity, loss, domestic violence, SPMI and LBGTQ concerns.

Hobbies
Grace enjoys being in nature, trying new foods, exploring new places, knitting and creating art.

Clinical Approach
Brian believes in a strengths-based, systemic approach that builds up the client, figures out what part of their system is not doing well, and addresses the issues in a non-judgmental and supportive manner.

Clinical Interests
Brian has an interest in couples counseling and is trained in TF-CBT.

Hobbies
Brian enjoys watching movies, playing video games, lifting weights, karaoke, music, spending time with family, card games, board games and trying new foods and cooking.

Clinical Approach
Jordan's favorite part about her job is building relationships. She believes that creating a safe and supportive environment builds trust and can lead to success.

Clinical Interests
Jordan is currently on track to obtain her LPCC. She enjoys working with children, adolescents, and young adults. Jordan has worked with a variety of diagnosis including: FASD, ASD, and anxiety.

Hobbies
In her free time, Jordan loves to travel and be outdoors. She particularly likes hiking, swimming, and tennis.

Clinical Approach
Ashley believes in working with families and individuals through a systems lens approach. She enjoys utilizing techniques from Experiential, and Narrative techniques with a foundation of building a relationship with the individual and their families. She believes change comes from building therapeutic relationships with the individual and their families which can lead to the process of healing and growth.

Clinical Interests
Ashley has a certification in PREPARE/ENRICH pre-marital counseling. She enjoys working with school age kids and teenagers on anxiety, depression, ADHD and PTSD. She also has experience with foster care and adoptive families and ope to continue to learn more about these areas.

Hobbies
Ashley enjoys anything on the water. She loves going to the cabin, travel and playing sports. She loves hockey and football. You can find her watching Wild games or attending any sporting event. She also enjoys cooking, spending time with family/friends, movies and paddle boarding.

Clinical Approach
Heather believes that therapy is a collaborative approach between the therapist and the client; it’s important to be able to meet the client where they are, and help guide them to where they would like to be.

Clinical Interests
Heather has a wide range of experience from children ages 5+ to geriatric populations. She has worked with children/families in crisis who’ve experienced trauma, abuse, neglect, or individuals who struggle with daily functions related to anxiety, depression, and anger.

Hobbies
Outside of clinical work, Heather is an Adjunct Instructor. She loves to read non-fiction books and binge watch TV shows on the weekends. She also has an obsession for candles and love fall scents.

Clinical Approach
Mary has an eclectic approach to therapy with a person-centered foundation. She believes that creating a trusting relationship and a sage space for self-exploration can facilitate growth and change.

Clinical Interests
Mary has experience working with diverse clients presenting with variety of diagnoses. She particularly enjoys working with children and adults.

Hobbies
Mary enjoys going to movies, reading, and spending time with family and friends. She also loves seeing new places and trying new things.

Clinical Approach
Nancy is passionate about providing clinical services to individuals from all walks of life to enhance their quality of life and for those surrounding them. In therapy, Nancy provides services using the flexibility of a trauma-informed. eclectic approach to meet the diverse needs and demands of her clients.

Clinical Interests
Nancy has experience working with individuals from most age ranges. Currently, she is focused on working with children that have complex presentations and with their family systems. In the past , she has predominantly worked within the Latinx population. She is interested in expanding her skills in trauma-informed practices.

Hobbies
Nancy enjoys taking short hikes during the summer, practicing mindfulness, and visiting northern Minnesota.

Clinical Approach
Krysta grows with clients utilizing the client’s learning style and flows with them to work on their goals. She utilizes aspects of CBT and mindfulness in her sessions.

Clinical Interests
Krysta has experience working with elementary aged children and older adults. She has a certification in Respecting Choices, an advance care planning model. Krysta also has experience working with individuals with autism and ADHD in CTSS and ARMHS. Krysta’s experiences range from working in a memory care clinic to hospital settings.

Hobbies
Krysta enjoys running, crafts and watching movies.

Clinical Approach
Molly primarily follows a client-centered style where she draws from third wave behavioral approaches such as: DBT, ACT, and mindfulness based CBT.

Clinical Interests
Molly works primarily with children and adolescents ages 11-18, ranging in presenting concerns of anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, autism, and adjustment issues.

Hobbies
Molly likes to go to concerts, read, and take her dog on walks.

Clinical Approach
Bailey believes people have many strengths and talents within themselves, and their interpersonal relationships. It is her job to assist people in finding those parts within themselves and their relationships. Bailey accomplishes this collaboratively by working with a person’s family and other important systems.

Clinical Interests
Bailey works with pre-k through 5th graders, as well as their families. She is also certified in Prepare/Enrich and has done several trainings on Play Therapy.

Hobbies
Outside of work, Bailey enjoys spending time with her cats and dog, reading, and going on hikes with her partner.

Clinical Approach
Laura utilizes a strengths based and person-centered approach to therapy, focusing on clients’ strength and resiliency. Laura has experience working with individuals and families from a variety of backgrounds.

Clinical Interests
She has specialized in working with children with special needs, individuals facing chronic medical and mental health issues and end of life care.

Hobbies
Outside of the office, Laura enjoys spending time with her family and being outside

Clinical Approach
Nicole’s approach is child centered through the use of play therapy techniques. She believes that play is a natural medium of communication that allows children to fully express and explore their thoughts, feelings, experiences, and behaviors.

Clinical Interests
Nicole is interested in play therapy and sand play therapy. She is currently working towards becoming a Registered Play Therapist. Nicole works with adolescents and their families at Centennial Middle School. She has previous experience working with children/adolescents ages 5 to 16 in home doing individual and family skills.

Hobbies
Nicole enjoys Crocheting gifts for friends and family and playing board games.

Clinical Approach
Johanna uses a strengths-based and experiential approach to therapy. She likes to identify and use the "positives" in life to help cope with the "not-so-positives".

Clinical Interests
Johanna has experience working with a diverse population of individuals and families. She has been trained in harm reduction techniques, motivational interviewing, the housing-first model and skill-building for children.

Hobbies
Johanna enjoys running, hiking, watching movies, listening to music and is also gaining an appreciation for cooking!

Clinical Approach
Hannah utilizes a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to therapy with individuals, youth, and families. She incorporates concepts from both dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT) and solution-focused therapy.

Clinical Interests
Hannah has experience working with youth and families in a variety of settings. She uses elements of play therapy, DBT, crisis de-escalation, and motivational interviewing in her work. She is also certified in Prepare/Enrich and Psychological First Aid.

Hobbies
Hannah enjoys spending quality time with her family, friends, and two cats. In her free time, she loves to bake, paint, and spend time outdoors.

Clinical Approach
Katie’s therapy style is relationship oriented and insight focused. She enjoys group work and believes group therapy can be a highly effective change agent.

Clinical Interests
Katie specializes in working with adolescents who are in need of a high level services. She is a member of the Association for Specialists in Group Work and has experience working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, social skills, trauma, self-harm, and suicidal ideation.

Hobbies
Katie enjoys being outdoors, spending time with family, jogging, yoga, and cooking. She loves animals and has two adorable cats who she loves to hang out with.

Clinical Approach
Hal’s foundation for therapeutic approach is rooted in Rogerian Person Centered therapy, linked with a wide variety of approaches to best fir the client’s need or needs. He believes positive therapeutic change is client driven and is best achieved through cooperative efforts between the client, therapist, family members, and other service providers.

Clinical Interests
As a licensed school counselor and therapist, Hal has worked in elementary, middle, and high school, as well as, alternative learning centers. For the past 2 years, he has worked in a federal level IV school setting with students struggling through emotional and behavioral issues in grades 6-12.

Hobbies
Outside of work, Hal enjoys spending time with his wife, daughter, son, and their dog, Chester. He loves camping, fishing, gardening, and watching his kids participate in gymnastics and basketball.

Clinical Approach
Natalee’s approach to therapy is to build an accepting, non-judegemental relationship where the client can feel safe to work on deeper issues. Natalee likes to incorporate play and art into therapy and strives to help clients love themselves more fully.

Clinical Interests
Natalee enjoys working with children, women, and families using cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, EDMR, and strengths-based approaches. Natalee’s specialties include anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem, trauma, bullying, adjustment issues, grief and loss, and behavioral issues.

Hobbies
Natalee loves to spend time with her husband and 2 daughters, being in nature, biking, music, dancing, playing soccer, hanging out with friends and being creative.

Clinical Approach
Matthew uses a CBT approach to therapy. He believes that therapy can have a huge effect on impacting lives in a positive way and has the ability to allow others to find a way to live a healthy life.

Clinical Interests
Matthew has worked with people ages 18-70 years old. His interests include populations that are veterans, has a trauma or addiction history.

Hobbies
Matthew loves animals and has two dogs and a cat. He also loves to exercise and play sports.

Clinical Approach
Sou approaches his therapy with an exlectic style that incororates a variety of different principles and philosophies. Sou believes that therapy should be customized to each individual based on their needs at that certain point and time in their lives. Sou brings a mixture of art, play, positive, CBT, DBT, behaviorism, trauma focused, and sensorimotor psychotherapy.

Clinical Interests
Sou has a background of working with clients of all ages needing crisis interventions or trauma focused care.

Hobbies
Sou likes spending his free time with his fiancee and his dog. He also enjoys cooking, reading, learning new things and traveling.

Clinical Approach
Krystal approaches therapy from a narrative viewpoint. She has a strong background in a holistic, person centered approach to therapy. She believes therapy can help to discover our best selves through the use of supportive, non-judgmental connections.

Clinical Interests
Her work is shaped by strengths-based, family systems theory, existential theory, and a fundamental belief that each of us have the ability to influence the world around us. Krystal has worked extensively with grief and loss, depression, anxiety, chemical dependency, coping and adjustment issues across all ages

Hobbies
Krystal enjoys spending time with her family outdoors and being active – no matter the season! Her favorite hobbies are gardening, cruising around in a 1955 Chevy sedan, and attempting to sew.