Our Inver Grove Heights Team
Nicole Benson, MA
(she/her)
Mental Health Therapist
accepting new clients
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location(s): Inver Grove Heights, virtual
Specialties: individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and group therapy; children ages 6+, adolescents, young adults, and adults; anxiety, depression, life transitions, 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. I truly believe in every individual’s ability to grow and change. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where everyone can feel seen and heard. 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. Like Maya Angelou’s quote, I want you to have a life that’s thriving, not merely just surviving. A recent interest and passion of mine have been the topics of grief/loss and perinatal and reproductive mental health. I want to help individuals and couples who have or are experiencing grief related to infertility or miscarriage/loss of pregnancy. I want them to know that they are not alone in this experience and that the grieving process can be done together. I enjoy working with couples who are experiencing a lack of connection and are seeking help with hopes of increasing the effectiveness of their communication and boundaries. Another passion of mine is helping couples navigate family conflicts. Family conflicts are not easy, and they tend to disrupt the whole family system. Family conflicts can cause resentment among members and there may be some forgiveness and letting go that needs to happen. Sometimes couples feel stuck or in a rut and I'm here to invite them to explore one another differently and embrace each other’s strengths. The couple will learn how to navigate daily stressors and develop a care plan that will encourage safety and connection for the couple. I am also passionate about group therapy and how the group setting can promote change. I believe groups provide a unique and powerful setting where members can learn from one another, encourage connection, provide support, and develop greater empathy and compassion. Groups provide a safe environment where you can recognize that you are not alone in your suffering. I am currently working on creating women’s and couples support groups to be offered in the future. 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), Adlerian psychology, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I also identify as a neurodivergent provider. My approach is strengths based and varies to suit the client’s individual needs. I believe in a holistic approach to counseling. 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. My hobbies in my spare time include anything outdoors especially kayaking, going on walks, or to the dog park with my partner and our fur baby, Niles. I enjoy dancing, photography, traveling, cooking, and mindfulness activities such as yoga, meditation, and journaling. 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, MA
(she/her)
Clinical Trainee
accepting new clients
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location(s): Inver Grove Heights, Eagan, virtual
Specialties: Relationship issues, gender and sexuality, anxiety, depression, grief and loss 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, 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
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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.
Erin Donovan, MS LPCC
(she/her)
Mental Health Therapist
accepting new clients
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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
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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.
Bethani Goodrum, MA
(she/they)
Mental Health Therapist
accepting new clients
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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.
Haven Hafar, MSW, LGSW
(she/her)
Mental Health Therapist
accepting new clients
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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
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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).
Taylor Leslie, MA LPCC
(she/her)
Mental Health Therapist / Coach / Breathwork Facilitator / Cofounder
accepting new clients
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location(s): Inver Grove Heights, virtual
Specialties: Breathwork, infertility, somatic work, hypnosis & meditation, parts-work (Ego State Therapy), trauma, ART, anxiety, perfectionism, personal growth & transformation, adults 18+ Taylor's goal working with you is to be your co-pilot on your journey to uncover your needs, desires, passions, and purpose. Whether through individual therapy, coaching, or transformative breathwork sessions. Taylor is passionate about guiding others through challenges using the transformative power of the breath and the mind-body connection. Talk therapy never fully resonated, and it wasn't until Taylor discovered breathwork & somatic practices that she truly found healing and transformation on her own journey. Taylor believes the body holds a lot of wisdom & the answers are within. Taylor will help you get in touch with your inner wisdom, & intuition. She takes a collaborative & holistic approach, helping individuals heal from trauma, breathe through life stressors, and conquer anxiety! She is here to hold space for you on your journey of healing, self-discovery, & transformation. Outside of work she enjoys traveling, Zumba, spending time with her family friends & dog, meditating, & all things nature.
Rebecca Mitchell, LMFT LADC
(she/her)
Mental Health Therapist / Director of Clinical Programming
accepting new clients
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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
accepting new clients starting 10/7/24
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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​
accepting new clients
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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 received a Master of Arts degree in Adlerian Psychotherapy from Adler Graduate School completing the Co-Occurring Disorders program and has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Gender Studies from University of Utah. Amanda is a highly skilled, trauma-informed, holistic, client centered therapist whose goal is to create a trusting and compassionate therapeutic atmosphere which encourages self-exploration, self-awareness, empowerment and movement to achieve goals in therapy and life. Outside of work Amanda loves to read, play Dungeons and Dragons, go bowling, eat yummy food, spend time with friends and family and cuddle with their pets.
Samantha Rohl, MA
(she/her)
Mental Health Therapist
accepting new clients
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location(s): Inver Grove Heights, virtual
Specialties: Individual therapy, adolescents and young adults, Art Therapy, human sexuality, LGBTQIA+, relationship and sexual issues, phase of life transitions, anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma. Embarking on a journey of change can be overwhelming, yet it offers profound opportunities for growth and healing. As a therapist, I am dedicated to guiding individuals through their transformative processes, fostering resilience and self-discovery along the way. With a master's degree in Art Therapy and Counseling from Southwestern College-Santa Fe and certification in human sexuality, I bring a holistic approach to therapy. My practice is grounded in trauma-informed, person-centered principles, allowing me to meet clients where they are with empathy and understanding. Currently, I am working towards my LPCC licensure, I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, including at-risk youth, individuals in addiction recovery, and survivors of abuse. My areas of specialization encompass relationship dynamics, intimacy, sexuality, and gender exploration. For those who prefer a more creative approach, I integrate art therapy directives as a means of accessing deeper insights and fostering healing. It's important to note that artistic ability is not a prerequisite—rather, it's the willingness to explore and express oneself authentically that matters most. Beyond my professional pursuits, I find solace in nature through activities like hiking, gardening, and swimming. These experiences inform my therapeutic approach and contribute to a sense of balance and grounding. Additionally, I am passionate about creative expression and often find myself baking or engaging in other artistic endeavors in my free time.
Chaarissa Romero, MA
(she/her)
Mental Health Therapist
accepting new clients
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location(s): Inver Grove Heights, virtual
Specialties: individual therapy, children, adolescents, and young adults ages 8+, OCD, ERP, TICS, CBIT for TICS, Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Depression, Latinx mental health, Suicidality I identify as a bicultural (Ecuadorian-American) and Latina provider. Because of this, I recognize everyone’s unique experiences and challenges. I meet individuals where he/she/they are at but I am open to challenging my clients (at your pace!). I provide a collaborative, safe, humorous, and flexible environment. I am very much willing to move around in session, ask you a series of specific question, participates in other activities, or just calmly sit. Although my training stems from evidence-based treatments (ERP, CBIT, CBT), I draw from other techniques (play, mindfulness, strengths-based, multicultural) as well. I am currently working towards my LPCC licensure, but I have spent 10 years working in various mental health settings such as children’s residential treatment center, children’s mental health case manager at a community agency, and suicide prevention with children and adults. In these settings, I have worked with individuals and families from the Latinx, LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and Neurodivergent communities. I hope to continue serving these communities, and I would be honored to be part of your journey. In my free time, I enjoy playing recreational soccer throughout the Twin Cities, spending time with my dog (Oso, means bear), and relaxing outdoors.
Maddie Sandeen, MA LPCC
(she/her)
Mental Health Therapist / Board Approved Supervisor
not accepting new clients​
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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.