Our Inver Grove Heights Team
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Nicole Benson, MA
(she/her)
Mental Health Therapist
accepting new clients
Virtual Only
location(s): Inver Grove Heights, virtual
Specialties: individual therapy, couples therapy; adolescents 16+, and adults; anxiety, depression, life transitions, new parents, attachment, relationships, grief/loss, self-esteem or self-worth issues; and Attachment Theory, Person-Centered Therapy, IFS, CBT, EFT, somatic work, and trauma-informed care. As humans, we long for connection; it is primal and in our DNA. However, in order to feel a connection, we need to feel a sense of safety first. In my work, I am attachment-focused and utilize an integrated approach, including person-centered therapy, somatic work, emotionally focused therapy (EFT), internal family systems (IFS), and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I also identify as a neurodivergent provider. I believe in a holistic approach to counseling, and my approach is strengths-based to suit the individual needs of my clients. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where everyone can feel seen and heard. I value that everyone has a unique experience, and it is important to me to learn how each of your cultural backgrounds impacts your life and view of the world. I’m passionate about supporting individuals and couples through grief, loss, and the complexities of perinatal and reproductive mental health. Whether navigating infertility, miscarriage, or the transition into parenthood, I offer space to process these experiences both together or individually. I also work with couples seeking deeper connection, especially during times of change. I truly believe in every individual’s ability to grow and change. Whether it's healing through grief or rebuilding trust and communication, we explore how to move forward with intention and care while embracing each others strengths. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family and doing enjoy outdoor activities such as kayaking, walking, or going to the dog park. I also enjoy dancing, photography, traveling, cooking, and mindfulness activities. If this feels like a good fit, feel free to reach out to me by email and we can find a time to connect. I look forward to meeting you!

Lauren Black, MSW
(she/her)
Mental Health Therapist
accepting new clients
location(s): Inver Grove Heights, Eagan, virtual
Specialties: Relationship issues, gender and sexuality, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, EFT If there’s one reason I am a therapist, it is because I am deeply curious about people and love to connect. I want to fully know and understand your experiences, and create a space where you feel held. Some lenses I frequently bring to sessions include: how our relationships shape us throughout our lives, how our bodies and nervous systems hold our past and influence our present experience, and how systems of power impact everything. I’m especially excited to support clients around relationship issues (whether romantic, family, or friend), life transitions, anxiety and depression, grief and loss, and exploring gender, sexuality, and queerness. Some therapy modalities and frameworks that shape my approach include: Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), attachment theory, IFS techniques, somatics, mindfulness, gender-affirming therapies, and trauma-informed practices. But above all, I’m invested in finding the approach that will work best for you, and we can draw from some, all, or none of these to figure that out! Before becoming a therapist, I was a full-time climate justice organizer for several years, and I still stay connected to organizing and movement work in my personal life. I am queer, cisgender, and polyamorous and love being in queer community. At home, I love swimming, cooking for my neighbors, reading fantasy novels in Spanish, and being the fun auntie to my sister’s daughter.

Sarah Bourassa, LPCC
(she/her)
Mental Health Therapist
accepting new clients
location(s): Inver Grove Heights, virtual
Specialties: individual therapy, anxiety, depression, life transitions, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) strategies , Solutions-focused therapy, mindfulness, grief and loss, ages 18+ Sarah is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who believes that individuals are on a journey to find meaning and fulfillment in their lives. She creates a safe and trusting environment for clients to work on personal growth and utilize their strengths to achieve their goals. With a passion for providing a compassionate and empathetic approach, Sarah incorporates various techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness. Sarah sees adult clients with a variety of therapeutic goals. She has worked with clients who have experienced anxiety, depression, lack of purpose, life transitions, self-image issues, and relational conflict. She finds joy in supporting clients where they are at and empowering them to reach their full potential using their unique skills. Outside of work, Sarah enjoys nature, animals, a large amount of coffee, and exploring.

David Castañeda, MPS, LADC
(he/him)
Mental Health Therapist
accepting new clients
location(s): Inver Grove Heights, virtual
Specialties: individual therapy, ages 18+, co-occurring disorders, neurodiversity, anxiety, trauma, Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET), substance use, toxic masculinity, DBT skills, gender, sexuality, multi-ethnic identities, life purpose, meaning, and transitions. I’m David - a neurodivergent, queer, Minnesota-based LADC, working towards my independent LPCC licensure. A Mexican American born & raised in Southern CA, I am passionate about helping clients discover their unique meaning and life’s purpose while navigating the “grey” area of a complex and uncertain world. I seek to provide clients a positive, healing space with respect, kindness, and inclusivity to overcome obstacles, navigate systems of oppression, and improve their quality of life. I actively work to provide an affirming space as we engage in therapy as collaborative partners. My approach to therapy is rooted in harm-reduction, trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex-positive, culturally responsive positions. A continued goal of mine as a substance use counselor is to advocate for practical and liberatory strategies to reduce negative consequences of substance use. I believe people who use substances deserve to live safe, meaningful, and dignified lives. A current special interest of mine since the recreational legalization of cannabis in Minnesota is reducing shame and stigma around cannabis use - exploring ways clients can navigate their cannabis use in safer ways, and in alignment with their personal healing journey. I enjoy working with people of all gender and sexual identities and welcome clients from all backgrounds and lived experiences. I value YOUR power to make informed decisions about your mental health to create meaningful change in your life. Outside of work I am grounding and restoring myself in a plethora of special interests, including (but definitely not limited to): loving on, and spoiling my senior cat; researching topics; reading; video games; admiring visual and performing art; listening to music; making food and drink; spending time in nature; chilling with my friends and family. David Castañeda MPS, LADC, a first-generation college graduate, completed a Master of Professional Studies in Integrated Behavioral Health from the University of Minnesota to assist clients with mental health, substance use, or co-occurring disorders. David’s therapy philosophy is largely shaped by Existentialism and Accelerated Experiential-Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP).

Spencer Czech, MSW, LGSW, MPH
(they/them)
Mental Health Therapist
not accepting new clients
location(s): Inver Grove Heights, virtual
Specialities: ages 16+, individual therapy, complex trauma, gender, sexuality, neurodiversity, self harm and body modification, substance use, White identity and culture My abolitionist social work background guides my values of supporting people in their environment and relationship(s) to that environment. I value being effective rather than being right and will bring this to their therapeutic work with you. I offer affirming services using the tools and education I have gained along my own healing journey and through my unique experiences. I continue to evolve my values of collective responsibility and collaborative accountability through my engagement with lifelong learning both individually and collectively because we are each other's greatest resource. I believe we all have a responsibility to get rid of the systems that harm us and to build socially just, sustainable futures for everyone. While I have my own areas of interest, I am deeply passionate about learning and will do the work to learn about experiences for which I am unfamiliar to best support you. In sessions, I start with the belief that all of your feelings and experiences matter and together we will explore how these can create lasting effects in your day-to-day life. Understanding how your feelings and experiences shape you and how you move through the world can be both freeing and difficult--especially when navigating traumatic experiences. In sessions with me, your unique viewpoints and experiences will be the guide as I offer tools or suggestions to support you in achieving your wellness, hopes, and goals. During our work together, my suggestions are just that: suggestions that you can determine whether you want to try. Our society pressures us to seek power and control over our life rather than being in relationship with it. My role and goals are to support you in using new tools to manage daily challenges and long-term, deep healing strategies. Let’s explore avenues for you to experience yourself, life, and relationships boldly. I ground our work in Narrative, Somatic, Abolitionist, and Libertory Therapies. I am trained in Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET). Before becoming a licensed therapist and while attending college, I spent about 12 years in the Twin Cities as a case manager and drop-in center advocate supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, living with HIV, and those experiencing barriers to sustaining their health and wellbeing. I grew up just North of the Twin Cities and now live in St. Paul. Some identities I embody are Euro-American (White), queer, transmasc, nonbinary, disabled, neurodivergent, formerly homeless, and non-traditional first-generation college graduate. I spend much of my time in nature, all year round, learning from the seasons and embracing that learning with my partners, community, and my cats, Howl and Calcifer. I also enjoy video games, reading, cross stitching, and having bonfires throughout the year.

Erin Donovan, MS LPCC
(she/her)
Mental Health Therapist
accepting new clients
location(s): Inver Grove Heights, virtual
Specialties: EMDR trained, children, adolescents, young adults, anxiety, depression, trauma, family work, school related issues, play therapy In my practice, I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients, regardless of their age or background. Together, we'll create a safe and nurturing space where you can feel comfortable and supported as you embark on your journey of growth. I believe in incorporating humor and play into our sessions to help ease tension and foster a relaxed atmosphere. When working with children and adolescents, I aim for a balanced approach that involves both parent collaboration and allowing the child space to explore and express themselves. My approach to therapy is holistic, emphasizing the interconnectedness of mind and body. I meet each individual where they are, tailoring our work together to suit their unique needs and preferences. Coming from a large family, I've learned the importance of patience and empathy, qualities that I believe are essential in the therapeutic setting. I have worked as a therapist for 5 years, primarily with kids, adolescents, young adults, and families in different settings including outpatient, school-based, and in-home. Outside of my professional life, I love time spent outdoors, whether it's going for a walk, playing golf, sitting by a lake, or simply reading on my patio. I also find joy in tapping into my creative side through painting and embroidery, always eager to explore new crafts. I also love a day spent on the couch watching new shows/movies or rewatching an old favorites (aka Harry Potter weekends)

Sheilah Dudley, MSW, LGSW
(she/her)
Mental Health Therapist
accepting new clients
location(s): Inver Grove Heights, virtual
Specialties: couples & individual therapy, anxiety, depression, mental health effects of type 1 diabetes, overwhelm, shame, personal responsibility, self-awareness, perfectionism, grief, addiction, and 12-step programs. Trainings: Brainspotting, Level 1. Wouldn't it be easier if we could live a simpler life without the overwhelm that comes in our day to day world? In today's world, we juggle a lot and are often bombarded by information, responsibilities, and other stressors, leading us to feel out of touch and overwhelmed. My priority is to listen, understand, and create space for my clients to reconnect with themselves and their intuition. Above all, I want the people I work with to feel heard, understood, and supported. My relaxed approach to psychotherapy allows for room to explore you as a unique individual and tailor our sessions together so we meet your individual needs. I utilize various modalities in my work, including CBT and DBT, and incorporate movement and art into our sessions. Outside of work, I enjoy baking, my cat, walking, writing, visiting family, and art.
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Bethani Goodrum, MA
(she/they)
Mental Health Therapist
accepting new clients
location(s): Inver Grove Heights, virtual
Specialties: Individual & couples therapy; adolescents, young adults, and adults; anxiety, depression, adjustment/ life transitions, attachment, relationships, self-esteem or self-worth issues, LGBTQIA+; and Attachment Theory, Person-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, Narrative, and Strengths Focused. Bethani believes that therapy can be for everybody and is a collaborative process to gain clarity and insight into one’s life. Aligning with a humanistic approach, Bethani aims to tailor the therapeutic process to everyone’s unique needs and values while including humor and creating an environment of authenticity and warmth. Bethani works best with individuals who are going through life transitions, experiencing relationship challenges, breaking away from unhealthy family patterns, coping with anxiety and mood disorders, as well as wanting to enhance their understanding of self, identity, or improve on self-worth. Bethani is passionate about creating a space where individuals can comfortably explore their daily or past experiences that shape their lives. It is her goal to create a space where she can work alongside you to develop new perspectives, coping strategies, navigate through challenging aspects that can occur in life, as well as give space to explore your unique life story and how it impacts you. Bethani has worked in the mental health field for 9-years. She has experience working as an individual and family behavior skills worker, parent coach, and as a mental health practitioner. Bethani has experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, adjustment disorders, and trauma disorders. Bethani has worked with children, families, and adults. Currently Bethani is seeing individuals who are 13+. Bethani is an LGBTQIA+ identifying and gender affirming provider who is currently working toward her LPCC licensure. Bethani graduated with her master’s in clinical mental health counseling at Winona State University. Outside of work, Bethani enjoys spending time with her partner, cat (Zucchini), reading, and has recently become interested in immersing herself in the delightful pursuit of birding.
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Haven Hafar, MSW, LGSW
(she/her)
Mental Health Therapist
accepting new clients
location(s): Inver Grove Heights, virtual
Specialties: Young adults, couples, DBT skills development, anxiety, complex family dynamics, mood disorders, trauma, life transitions and stressors I have a niche for working with young adults (18-30 y/o), especially those dealing with anxiety, depression, and navigating complex family systems. Our late teens and 20s are full of life transitions, uncertainty, new experiences, big decisions, and figuring out who we are. Many of the clients I love to work with come in feeling alone, feeling like they're never good enough, or feeling overly responsible for taking care of the people around them. Some clients have difficulty identifying their own feelings or needs, or feel like asking for help or setting boundaries is impossible. I am passionate about supporting individuals in developing new coping strategies and creating compassionate space for people to explore and share freely about personal experiences and systemic factors that have shaped their lives. I believe that everyone’s journey is unique and I love walking alongside clients as they are navigating their own self-discovery. I aim to help clients cultivate self-compassion and identify the strengths they hold, while also using DBT to help people learn new concrete skills for navigating our increasingly complex world in a way that feels most effective for them. I understand the challenge of applying these skills during difficult moments, and I enjoy partnering with people to provide guidance on listening to one's body and utilizing coping mechanisms. I am client centered and meet folks where they’re at, utilizing interventions that help people heal, grow, and embrace the version of themselves that feels most authentic. Whether you are trying to figure out who you are, or how to survive in a world that is increasingly complex, I will walk alongside you and help hold any emotions that come up. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my loved ones, taking my dog for walks, and cuddling with my cat. I also love puzzles, trying new foods, and am getting into gardening!

Katherine Johnson, MSW, LICSW
(she/her)
Mental Health Therapist / Board Approved Supervisor
accepting new clients
location(s): Inver Grove Heights, virtual
Specialties: Individual and group therapy, adults, adolescents, anxiety, depression, SPMI, trauma, dissociation, neurodivergence, complicated grief, harm reduction, DBT skills, AIR Network My interest is in meeting folks where they are right now and supporting them in exploring strengths and adding to skills. I am trained in AIR Network as well as DBT and motivational interviewing. I prioritize creating a non-judgmental space with plenty of validation and room for humor. I am a believer that healing happens in many ways--you may find it helpful to delve into past experiences, or you may not--both are okay! We will work in the here and now to find ways to navigate challenges and create new paths. Outside of work, I enjoy rock picking, gaming, singing, and hanging out with my animals (primarily cats and reptiles).

Rebecca Mitchell, LMFT LADC
(she/her)
Mental Health Therapist / Director of Clinical Programming / Board Approved Supervisor
not accepting new clients
location(s): Inver Grove Heights, virtual
Specialties: Trauma, EMDR, TF-CBT, Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Individual Therapy, Family Therapy, working with individuals 8+ Rebecca’s goal in every session is to make you feel comfortable to work through any current challenges while helping you achieve the changes needed to move forward. Her approach to therapy is to have honest and open conversation, grounded in collaboration with a fun and inviting environment. When interacting with children Rebecca likes to use games, crafts, etc. to interact with the child while working on treatment plan goals. Rebecca started in the chemical dependency field in 2012 wanting to help individuals struggling with addiction. It was during this time that she decided to expand her knowledge in the mental health field to include family systems. Rebecca has worked in diverse settings as an LADC which include: residential, outpatient, group therapy, and medication management. Since moving to an outpatient therapy setting Rebecca has extensive experience in working with individuals and families that are affected by trauma, addiction, anxiety, impulse control, anger, self-esteem, and depression. Rebecca’s techniques are grounded in marriage and family therapy, bringing a systemic based lens, allowing her to consider the client’s environment, relationships, and other influences impacting their experience. Rebecca has been certified in TF-CBT (since 2017) and completed training in EMDR (in 2022). Outside of work Rebecca loves to read, garden (well tempts too), is a huge Harry Potter fan, and spends time with family

Morgan Phillips, MSW LICSW, LADC
(she/her)
Mental Health Therapist / Board Approved Supervisor
not accepting new clients
location(s): Inver Grove Heights, virtual
Specialties: Adults (21+), Individual therapy, LGBTQIA+, Trauma, Brainspotting, Attachment Concerns, Addiction, Co-occurring Disorders, Life Transitions, Women’s Issues Morgan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Morgan is trained in Brainspotting. She has a Master of Social Work with a focus on co-occurring disorders from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and a Bachelor of Social Work from University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. Morgan embraces a person-centered holistic approach. Her goal is to create a compassionate space that encourages curiosity that will allow for self-exploration and work towards living the life you desire. Outside of work, Morgan enjoys exploring all things related to Minnesota, finding and trying new restaurants and hanging out with family and friends. She embraces Minnesota winters by playing Nintendo and reading.

Amanda Ripley-Kayala, MA LPCC, LADC
(she/they)
Mental Health Therapist / Board Approved Supervisor
not accepting new clients
location(s): Inver Grove Heights, virtual
Specialties: Adults (18+), Individual therapy, Trauma, EMDR, LGBTQIA+, Gender identity, Sexual identity, Sexual health, Queer, Poly, Kink Community, Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, PTSD, Addiction, Stress, Co-occurring Disorders, Life transitions, Coping skills Amanda Ripley-Kayala is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Amanda is trained in EMDR and has completed UW-Stout’s Sex Therapy Certificate Program. Amanda is a therapist who combines sex therapy and trauma therapy and offers a comprehensive, integrative approach to healing, addressing both the emotional and physical aspects of trauma and sexuality. Their services are designed to support individuals in navigating complex issues related to sexual health, intimacy, and trauma recovery. Services Amanda provides include: Sex Therapy (Sexual Concerns and Dysfunctions, Sexual Identity and Orientation, Communication About Sexuality, Enhancing Intimacy, Body Positivity and Self-Esteem); Trauma Therapy (Trauma-Informed Care, Healing from Sexual Trauma, Managing Triggers, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Somatic Techniques); Integrative Trauma and Sexuality (Addressing the Connection Between Trauma and Sexuality, Rebuilding Healthy Relationships, Boundaries and Consent, Sexual Empowerment and Reclaiming Pleasure); Individual Therapy (Self-Exploration of Sexuality, Healing from Shame and Guilt, Mind-Body Integration); Support for Specific Populations (LGBTQ+, Kink, Polyamory, Cultural Sensitivity and Awareness

Maddie Sandeen, MA LPCC
(she/her)
Mental Health Therapist / Board Approved Supervisor
accepting new clients
location(s): Inver Grove Heights, virtual
Specialties: Trauma, EMDR, anxiety, depression, anger, individual therapy, parenting support, life transitions, individuals 5+, licensed in Minnesota and Wisconsin Maddie is a welcoming and compassionate therapist who has a passion for working with children, adolescents, and adults. Maddie works to provide clients and their families a space where they are supported, nurtured, and free to express themselves. Maddie utilizes a wide variety of modalities including: EMDR, Experiential Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, and Strengths Based Therapy in her sessions to support clients. She has experience in an adolescent residential treatment facility, school-based therapy, and outpatient therapy. Maddie has extensive experience supporting individuals who are impacted by trauma, divorce, anger/emotional dysregulation/big behaviors, impulse control, grief and loss, as well as self-esteem. Outside of work, Maddie enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading, gardening, and being outdoors.

Allison (Al) Stevens,
MSW, LICSW
(she/they)
Mental Health Therapist
not accepting new clients
location(s): Inver Grove Heights, virtual
Specialities: Neurodivergence (Autistic and ADHD), LGBTQ+, Persistent Drive for Autonomy, Rejection Sensitivity, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Low Demand Parenting, Safe and Sound Protocol, Children, Adolescents, Transition Age and their parents/families Hey, I’m Al! I believe that neurodivergent people shouldn’t be an add-on or after-thought to traditional therapies not designed for our brains in the first place. As a queer, Autistic, and ADHD individual myself, I bring professional and lived experience into the therapy space. I am passionate about helping you create a neurodivergent-friendly life which works for you. I strive to create a welcoming environment for understanding, healing, empowerment, and the freedom to be yourself. Movement, stimming, info-dumping, as well as your interests and passions are encouraged and celebrated in sessions. I apply a bottom-up approach to therapy, addressing emotions and regulation starting with body-based awareness, interoception, nervous system regulation, and sensory experiences before engaging in cognitive and emotional processing. I utilize play-based, creative, and expressive outlets through activities such as games, lego building, music, and arts/crafts. Additionally, I incorporate movement, sensory tools, visual aids, and psychoeducation. My approach is collaborative and person-centered, meaning I adapt our sessions to your specific strengths, needs, and goals. As a therapist, I bring intentional flexibility through adapting therapeutic modalities, techniques, and strategies to fit neurodivergent brains. Whether it is exploring and addressing sensory needs and preferences, incorporating multimodal communication, acknowledging neuro-minority stress, or using special interests in metaphors and analogies… Together, we will create a therapy journey that resonates with you. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and dogs, reading, playing video games, and singing. Some of my special interests include music and animals.