Psychological or Psychoeducational Testing for kids and adults ages 6+!

Dr. Alexia Konko is a Licensed Psychologist, and earned her Doctor of Psychology Degree (Psy.D.) from The Rutgers School of Applied and Professional Psychology. During her graduate training, she completed a variety of training experiences, which included providing counseling services to individuals, children, families, and couples.

After that, she worked in school districts across the country as a school psychologist providing evaluations, consultation, counseling, and crisis intervention to students, families, and staff. Her post-doctoral training included providing comprehensive evaluations to clients presenting with a wide variety of psychological disorders. Working in the private practice setting got her interested in utilizing integrative and holistic methods to work with patients, such as meditation/mindfulness, gentle movement/exercise and nutrition.

Whatever you are struggling with, there is always hope ahead that it will get better. If you’re ready to work together, schedule an introductory call with Dr. Alexia to see if you are a good fit. She’s looking forward to speaking with you!

🧒 Psychological Assessments For Ages 6 & Up

Your evaluation includes:

• Clinical interview
• All necessary testing measures
• Detailed written report with clinical and holistic recommendations
• Feedback session to review results and answer questions

Alysan brings a warm, grounded presence to the therapy space, creating an environment where clients feel safe, supported, and free from judgment. She welcomes individuals, couples, and families at all stages of their journey—whether they are new to therapy or seeking deeper self-understanding and growth. Alysan believes that meaningful change is possible when clients feel heard, empowered, and connected within the therapeutic relationship.

She has a special interest in working with couples and relationship dynamics, including communication challenges, conflict resolution, trust, and rebuilding emotional and physical intimacy. Alysan supports partners in exploring patterns within their relationship, increasing understanding of one another’s perspectives, and developing healthier ways of connecting. She also works with individuals navigating intimacy concerns, attachment patterns, and personal barriers that impact relationships.

Prior to beginning her journey as a therapist, she worked in behavioral health and intensive case management, supporting individuals and families navigating complex systems, crisis situations, and significant life stressors. That experience continues to inform her holistic, person-centered approach and deep respect for the ways people adapt, survive, and find meaning in the midst of difficulty.

Alysan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Behavior Analysis, where she developed a strong foundation in understanding human behavior and evidence-based intervention strategies. She is currently completing her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, where she has gained advanced training in assessment, treatment planning, and integrative therapeutic approaches. Through her graduate work and practicum experience, she has worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in both outpatient and inpatient settings, including individual and group therapy. She also has experience supporting couples, facilitating family work, and providing parent coaching to strengthen communication and relationships. Alysan integrates her behavioral background with a client-centered approach to provide thoughtful, effective care tailored to each individual’s needs.

Alysan is under supervision with Kayce Bragg, LPCS.

Dawn Renae is currently completing her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy at Capella University. 

Prior to beginning her journey as a therapist, she worked in behavioral health and intensive case management, supporting individuals and families navigating complex systems, crisis situations, and significant life stressors. That experience continues to inform her holistic, person-centered approach and deep respect for the ways people adapt, survive, and find meaning in the midst of difficulty.

Dawn is under supervision with Kayce Bragg, LPCS.

Sheena Vahalik is an experienced school counselor dedicated to fostering the social, emotional, and academic growth of students from early childhood through middle school. Currently serving Nursery ISD at Nursery Elementary School and Nursery Junior High. Sheena provides individual counseling, crisis management, and social-emotional learning lessons for students from Pre-K to 7th grade. In addition to her counseling responsibilities, she supports gifted and 504 students, coordinates STAAR testing, and contributes actively to school committees and special events.

Sheena also serves on the administrative team assisting her co-workers as needed in a leadership format.

Sheena’s counseling career includes prior experience with Cuero ISD at Hunt Elementary School, where she counseled students from 2nd to 5th grade and held leadership roles in coordinating student council, scheduling, yearbook, and career day events.

Sheena is continuing to advance her expertise through graduate certifications, currently pursuing a Play Therapy Certificate at Grand View University with an expected graduation in 2026. She holds a Mental Health Counselor Certificate from Lamar University and a Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of St. Thomas-Houston. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor’s in Communications from the University of Houston-Victoria.

Dr. Patricia Evans is a licensed psychologist in the state of Minnesota and is a part of the telehealth compact called PsyPact, where she can work with clients who reside in 30+ states.  She received her doctoral degree from the University of Minnesota and then completed her pre-doctoral internship at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland in Behavioral Pediatrics and Adult Behavioral Medicine.

She then became a professor in Clinical and Behavioral Psychology at the University of Puget Sound in Washington State.  While on the West coast, she completed a Senior Post-Doctoral Fellowship at the University of Washington Medical School, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.

Dr. Evans returned to Minnesota where she worked at Aspen Medical Group and Allina Health for more than 30 years. At Aspen Medical Group she was the head of the Behavioral Medicine Program and Co-Director of the doctoral-level internship program for many years. She has been in private practice for the past 2 years.

She has extensive experience treating children, teens and adults with a wide range of mental health concerns. Her therapeutic approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).

Ten years ago, after extensive training and treatment of sleep disorders, she became board certified in Behavioral Sleep Medicine through the American Board of Sleep Medicine.  Two years ago, she became a diplomate in Behavioral Sleep Medicine.  Her primary specialties at this time are sleep psychology, health psychology and anxiety problems.

Dr. Evans sees children (as young as 18 months of age) and teens for sleep issues and OCD.  She sees adults and seniors for general mental health issues. With children, the family is involved in the therapy process.  With teens, therapy is often a combination of individual and family.

Dr. Evans lives in the Southwest Metro.  She enjoys spending time with family, friends and her grand-dog, traveling, gardening, and playing pickleball.

Professional Memberships: Minnesota Psychological Association, National Register of Health Care Psychologists, and Society For Behavioral Sleep Medicine

Minnesota Healthcare Bill of Rights Bill of Rights Download

**With Synergy, Dr. Evans only sees clients who have one of the following: BCBS of Minnesota, Lyra benefits or EFR (Employee and Family Resources EAP).

Emili is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Iowa and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Minnesota. Emili received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Art with a minor in Religion from Cornell College in Mount Vernon, Iowa. Emili went on to complete her Master of Education degree (M.Ed.) in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, as well as a Community College Teaching Certificate, from Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa.

She worked with college students at a private university for three years as a student affairs professional. During that time, Emili found her passion for working with individuals in one-on-one and small group interactions during this transitional stage of life, as well as through high stress and crisis situations.

The importance of mental health and wellness was very apparent working in the university setting with students at various stages of their college careers and coming from diverse backgrounds. During this stage of her professional career, she was a member of the Iowa Student Personnel Association (ISPA) and served as the chairperson one year for the ISPA Annual Conference. She was trained in Fierce Conversations and became certified as the highest level Fierce Conversations facilitator.

Emili paused her professional career in higher education to return to complete her Master of Arts degree (M.A.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at The University of South Dakota in Vermillion, South Dakota (CACREP accredited).

She completed her counseling internship in a faith-based, college counseling center. Emili’s first professional experience was through SAMSA’s Project AWARE grant providing therapy in a school-based setting. She has gained experience teaching as an adjunct professor at a community college.

Most recently, Emili worked in a community mental health agency providing therapy to adolescents, adults of all ages, and couples for nearly five years. In addition to her work as a therapist, Emili has worked part-time providing crisis services to individuals and families struggling with mental health crises. Agriculture has been part of Emili’s life since childhood, and she is also passionate about providing access to mental health care in rural, agricultural communities.

She has experience treating individuals struggling with anxiety disorders, all severities of depression, employment issues, chronic health issues, relationship distress, as well post-traumatic stress disorder.

Emili is most passionate about helping individuals struggling to cope with the complexities of grief and loss of all forms, including those struggling to understand the most unimaginable tragedies in life. Emili has also uncovered her interest in the challenge of providing couples counseling to partners wanting to improve communication, addressing ongoing conflict and/or betrayal in relationships, and experiencing new stages of life together.

When you work with Emili, you will find that she utilizes an integrative approach to therapy that starts and ends with person-centered care. Influenced by Carl Rogers, Emili strives to utilize the person-centered approach by focusing on unconditional positive regard, congruence, and empathy. Emili is interested in getting to know you and understanding life through your perspective.

She will often incorporate psychoeducation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and/or Gottman Methods for couples. She is in the process of completing the first two levels of Gottman Training. Emili has additional training in Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Seeking Safety, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). She also values the use of mindfulness, humor, creativity and music in therapy.

Beyond her professional work, Emili can be found investing into her family relationships, playing with her dog, going to the beach (or dreaming of it all winter long), practicing her cooking skills, reading to unwind her mind, working on passion projects, listening to music or podcasts, and laughing.

Emili is currently a member of the American Counseling Association (ACA) and the Iowa Mental Health Counselors Association (IMHCA).

ACA Code of Ethics https://www.counseling.org/resources/aca-code-of-ethics.pdf

Ed Frickson, MA, LP has a master’s degree in counseling psychology St. Cloud State and is a Licensed Psychologist (LP) in Minnesota. He has practiced in the field of mental health for decades.  

He has over 30 years of experience working across county social services, private and non-profit agencies, and has held executive leadership roles for a significant portion of his career.  Currently, Ed has returned to his roots, providing direct care to adults, couples, families and teens struggling with relationship concerns, work-related issues, teen trauma exposure, depression and anxiety. 

Ed understands that it takes courage to pick up the phone and ask for help when facing challenging life circumstances. He thoroughly enjoys working with individuals, couples and families to help them bring about changes and make their lives, and their relationships more life giving for them.

He works collaboratively with his clients using a variety of therapeutic approaches, including a blend of solution-focused, narrative, exposure-based and experiential models. Ed’s curious, personable, and thoughtful approach helps to encourage and challenge people to make change in their lives.

Ed is also trained in TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy), considered the gold standard in exposure-based therapy for youth who have been exposed to traumatic experiences.  movements to help process traumatic events and feelings.

Outside of work, Ed enjoys spending time with his wife and their two adult children.  He loves animals, and enjoys time with his horses, dogs and being outdoors. Ed enjoys volunteering and involvement with his community to improve the lives of others.

Zach Eichler, MA, LPCC is a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC) in the state of Minnesota. He obtained his Master’s from Minnesota State University – Mankato in Mental Health Counseling and holds an undergraduate degree in Human Development and Family Science from North Dakota State.

Zach works best with clients who are working through anxiety, depression, interpersonal/intimate relationship issues, emotion recognition, and emotional regulation. In his free time, he enjoys competition, sports, or games of any kind, spending time with his friends and family, and (last, but definitely not least) Dungeons and Dragons.

Dr. Nicole Smith is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Minnesota, Wisconsin and New York and has years of experience working with older children, teens, and adults of all ages. She is also a part of PsyPact, a telehealth compact where she can see clients in over 27+ states! Dr. Nicole is a veteran of the US Air Force and completed her undergraduate education while stationed in England.

She graduated from the UMUC, Europe with a B.S. in Psychology and a minor in Business Administration and holds a Master’s and Doctorate degree in Clinical Child Psychology from the Wisconsin School of Professional Psychology in Milwaukee, WI. She completed her pre-doctoral internship in infant and child psychology at the Institute for Infant and Preschool Mental Health in East Orange, NJ and completed her post-doctoral fellowship in infant/child/adolescent psychology at St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital, in NYC.

Dr. Nicole has worked in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient, hospitals, group homes, in-home, and now online! She has experience providing treatment for all types of difficulties that include trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, personality disorders, parenting problems, mother/infant attachment issues, adolescent issues, Autism Spectrum Disorders, psychological assessment, and general life difficulties.

She enjoys helping others to make permanent change in their lives for the better and to reach their full potential by staying in tune with themselves and maintaining “connectedness.” Dr. Nicole does this in her own life by exercising, enjoying nature, spending time with her family (including her beloved dog) and friends.

Quote to live by: ‘Definition of insanity- doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.’ In order to see change, you have to change what you are doing!

Minnesota Bill of Rights

Dr. Lin, who also goes by Ada, is a licensed psychologist in New York, Connecticut and PsyPact, received her Master’s degree in Education Studies and Doctorate of Philosophy in Combined School Psychology and Counseling Psychology, with a concentration in Counseling Psychology at The State University of New York at Buffalo.

Dr. Lin has prior clinical experiences working with diverse individuals in various settings, including university/college counseling centers, outpatient mental health clinic, and the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities.

Dr. Lin’s trauma-informed, integrative approach to therapy (e.g., mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, relational, humanistic, strengths-based modalities) allows her to tailor treatment to her clients’ needs, values, and preferences. Her clinical interests include grief and loss, anxiety, depression, life transitions/adjustment concerns, general stress, academic and work-related stressors, and microaggressions. Dr. Lin recently pursued training in Reiki as a way to further promote holistic well-being and personal growth in herself and others.

In her personal life, she enjoys spending time with loved ones, singing, snacking, hiking, social media, watching YouTube videos, including K-dramas, playing board games, eating pho, and composing poetry when inspired. Recently, she has been trying new recipes as part of her endeavor to learn to cook.

Jean Storlie is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and Registered Play Therapist (RPT) in the state of Minnesota. She has over 10 years of experience working with children, families and adults that are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Jean is passionate about helping clients of all ages to feel safe and heard and believes that the most important aspect of therapy is the relationship between therapist and client. Jean fosters a healing, trusting relationship with all individuals seeking support.

Jean has a person-centered and trauma-informed approach. Everyone’s experiences and challenges are unique to them. Jean meets clients where they are at and believes we are all good people, doing the best we can with the circumstances we have. Jean will work with you to help identify unhelpful coping strategies & support the development of new, healthier outlets.

Jean enjoys working with clients of all ages. As an autistic therapist, she is able to provide a unique perspective and assessments evaluating for Autism, with a focus on adults and those assigned gender female at birth (AFAB). She has a passion for supporting clients of all ages who have different abilities or those who have struggled to feel like they fit in.

Jean has special interests in working with families who have been created through adoption. She has been trained through permanency and adoption competence (PACC) to support families who have unique challenges that arise in adoption.

She is also trained to assess children ages 0-5. Jean is a registered play therapist and utilizes play, art, and various activities to help children learn new life skills. She utilizes both directive and nondirective play therapy with children who may struggle to verbalize their feelings and emotions. She will work with you and your child to resolve fears, worries, sadness, & build healthy esteem while assisting you in providing on-going support for you and your child.

In her free time, Jean enjoys spending time with family traveling (especially on cruises), taking walks, reading, and playing with her dogs.

Hi, it is my pleasure to meet you and welcome you into your journey to healing. I am here to
guide you into a safe place where conversations are led to help guide you to a place to reconnect
with yourself and to work through the ups and downs, the transitions and often complex
dynamics of life.
I specialize in working with children through adults to include couples. I offer a safe place to
foster hope, build resilience, and to overcome thought processes that no longer serve us. I will
help you to set your therapy goals, as well as to develop your “tools” to be able to navigate
whatever it is that you are going through. You are not alone. I am here for you and want to
support you on your therapy journey.

Laura Close is originally from South Carolina and is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Palo Alto University. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of South Carolina. In her free time, Laura enjoys spending time with her son, staying active, prioritizing her wellbeing, and volunteering in her community. 

Laura cares deeply about helping people, especially during times of change, stress, or uncertainty. She approaches her work with integrity and a strong belief in the importance of genuine human connection. 

As an intern, Laura is committed to providing compassionate, ethical, and client-centered care under supervision. She is excited to join the Synergy team and looks forward to supporting clients in their growth. 

Laura is under supervision with Kayce Bragg, LPCS.

Anna is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) who specializes in working with teens. She earned her Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) from the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities and her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

Anna brings a thoughtful, compassionate approach to her work with adolescents, creating a supportive space where teens can feel understood, respected, and comfortable being themselves. She is passionate about helping young people navigate challenges, build confidence, and develop the skills they need to thrive.

Dr. Lisa Lovelace is the founder of Synergy eTherapy and is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Minnesota, Wisconsin, New York and is registered as a tele-health provider in Florida. Dr. Lisa is also a part of PSYPACT, which allows psychologists to see clients who are physically located in any state that has joined PsyPact!

Dr. Lisa has over 20 years of post graduate level clinical experience working with children, adolescents and adults who suffer from a wide range of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, substance abuse and other emotional or behavioral disorders.

Before moving back to her hometown of Minneapolis, Dr. Lisa worked in New York City as a clinical director for a grant-funded substance abuse treatment program for teens at St. Luke’s – Roosevelt Hospital Center, Child and Family Institute. During this time, Dr. Lisa was also an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychology (in Psychiatry) at Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, where she enjoyed teaching and supervising psychology and psychiatry trainees. She received several honors throughout her career including Psi Chi Honors in Psychology, Teacher of the Year – St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital, and Supervisor of the Year – St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital.

Dr. Lisa enjoys working with older kids, teens, and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship and family discord, and more. Dr. Lisa typically uses a Cognitive-Behavioral approach in therapy, along with elements of Mindfulness and relaxation skill building to help clients better understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. She is also trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) which is a technique that uses rapid eye movements to “…reprogram the way in which distressing memories and images are stored in the brain so that they no longer trigger strong physical and emotional reactions.” This approach is very specific and directive in nature. Please ask more about using this technique in session.

She believes that everyone she works with is doing the best they can at that time. Learning how to find balance and become your best self is a lifelong process, and sometimes we could all use a professional, unbiased perspective to help move forward in a healthier way.

Dr. Lisa recently authored a children’s book called Bubble Breathing Adventures: Find Your Superpowers! This is your guide for self-regulating techniques and coping strategies when faced with big feelings. Practice along with the deep breathing techniques. Grab your bubbles and learn how to find your superpowers!

Dr. Lisa currently lives in Minneapolis with her family and they enjoy fishing, cooking, spending time with extended family, traveling, and dancing to 90’s hip hop music!

Kayce Bragg is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Supervisor, and a Licensed Addiction Counselor in the state of South Carolina.  In addition to SC, she is licensed as a counselor in NV, TX, ID, GA, NC, KS, MN, IL, OR, VT, WA, FL, MO, & NY and is registered to provide telehealth services in Florida and Idaho.  Kayce is currently studying for her Doctorate degree in Psychology.

Kayce worked in the community mental health field since 2011 and was the Clinical Director for a statewide non-profit organization that serves adults with severe and persistent mental illness such as Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, and various other Mood/Psychotic Disorders.

At the beginning of 2016, Kayce branched out to private practice, providing telehealth therapy services to the residents of South Carolina through online platforms using messaging, phone, and video tools. She specializes in treating such issues as depression, anxiety, difficulty adapting to life situations, relationship issues, stress caused by pressure at work or home, grief and loss, self-esteem issues, other difficulties maintaining life balance, developing coping skills, interpersonal skills, independent living skills, stress management, personal empowerment and advocacy, healthy leisure habits, and other important life skills. She also has experience with addictions issues and is equipped to help with related problems.

Kayce is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) treatment for trauma. She tends to use a model for therapy that integrates brief and time-limited solution-focused therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Positive Psychology and other modalities that focus more on what you are experiencing in the here and now as well as coming up with solutions to help you feel better and maintain improved balance in life. She believes in treating the mind, body, and spirit and the importance of the whole well-rounded person, and she is passionate about fighting for the rights of those with mental illness while eradicating stigma.

The Midlands of SC is where Kayce calls home along with her husband, four children, and two dogs. She enjoys spending time with her family, reading, crafting, taking dance classes, and going to the beach!

Lindsay earned her Master’s Degree from Columbia University. She has experience as a research assistant, during which she led and co-authored publications on various mental health topics. Lindsay also holds the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) Certificate from Stony Brook University and the Undergraduate Certificate in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Utah.

Lindsay has experience providing therapy to kids, teens, and women facing anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, life transitions, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and challenges related to Autism Spectrum and other neurodivergent experiences.

Lindsay has also personally dealt with complicated medical challenges in childhood and adulthood, resulting in experiences with trauma and anxiety. However, she is a strong believer in the idea that there is an opportunity for growth in every challenge. Therefore, she feels her personal experiences have further fueled her passion and enhanced her ability to help clients solve even life’s most complex challenges.

Outside of work, Lindsay enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband, daughter, and dog. She is happiest when taking walks or spending time at the beach with her loved ones. She also enjoys baking, staying active, and watching funny movies and TV shows whenever she gets the chance.

To Learn More About Lindsay from an interview, please check this out: https://canvasrebel.com/meet-lindsay-cowdin

Hi, I’m Irma, a Marriage and Family Therapy intern currently completing my clinical training through Capella University. I believe that our relationships and life experiences play a big role in how we understand ourselves, cope with challenges, and connect with others.

I have a background in healthcare as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant and hold a bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration, which together shape my holistic and compassionate approach to care. As a military spouse and a mother in a blended family, I also understand firsthand the challenges that can come with transitions, relocation, stress, and the impact those experiences can have on individuals and families.

I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, and the effects of stress, trauma, or depression. I also support clients in strengthening communication, building healthier connections, and feeling more empowered in their everyday lives.

Geoffrey Morris, MS, has both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Health Sciences from Touro University Worldwide, and is excited to use his education to help individuals and families navigate their emotional journeys.

Outside of his clinical work, Geoffrey enjoys exercise, cooking, and maintaining a clean and organized environment. He finds these practices not only bring him energy and balance but also reflect values of mindfulness, self-care, and intentional living. He often draws inspiration from these passions in supporting clients to develop their own routines and strategies for well-being.

Nikki Arthur holds a Master’s degree in Professional Counseling & Marriage and Family Therapy from The Minnesota School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. She has over two decades of experience in the mental health field; the last fifteen years providing therapeutic services to individuals & couples.

Nikki works most effectively with people who are open to increasing their connection with mind and body and a willingness to address this connection through mindfulness practices. Mindfulness is defined by Jon Kabat Zinn as “paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally.” Nikki believes utilizing mindfulness can allow clients to fully explore their emotions through the lenses of curiosity and compassion which can lead to decreased suffering and ease in dealing with the stressors that life inevitably brings. Mindfulness also appeals to Nikki’s background in research as mindfulness continues to show effectiveness in treating a variety of clinical concerns including, but not limited to, anxiety, recurrent depression, chronic pain, and ADHD.

Nikki’s approach to therapy is systemic, collaborative and strength-based. In addition to mindfulness, her work is informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Polyvagal Theory and the latest neuroscience research. Nikki utilizes these methods to increase her clients’ ability to experience their thoughts and feelings with openness and non-judgment, while practicing self-compassion.

Nikki’s special interests include working with individuals & couples struggling with depression, anxiety, parenting concerns, family/couple conflict and wellness/stress management. She provides her clients with a safe and supportive space to explore their concerns, while working collaboratively with clients so they feel the empowerment that comes from accessing their best self.

In her free time, Nikki enjoys spending time with her husband, her children and their dog, Bella. She also loves to read, meditate, bake with her daughters, go for walks, and listen to music.

“The healing comes from letting there be room for all of this to happen; room for grief, for relief, for misery, for joy.” – Pema Chodron

Professional Membership: American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy – Clinical Member

Marriage and Family Therapy Bill of Rights Bill of Rights Download

Andria holds a master’s degree in counseling psychology from the University of Minnesota and a certificate in marriage and family therapy from St. Mary’s University of Minnesota.

She has over 25 years of experience working at the University of Minnesota in the Department of Psychiatry, assisting adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with substance use disorders and other addiction issues.

Andria also works with people who experience anxiety, depression, and other stressful life circumstances. She understands that sometimes life can feel difficult or overwhelming, and she admires people’s courage to seek assistance with these inevitable challenges in life. Andria loves working with individuals, couples, and families to help bring about changes to make life and relationships more satisfying.

She works collaboratively with her clients using various therapeutic approaches, including a blend of narrative, solution-focused, and experiential theories. Andria’s warm, compassionate, and thoughtful nature balances her ability to encourage and challenge people to make change in their lives.

Andria is also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which is a type of trauma treatment that uses eye movements to help process traumatic events and feelings. Andria provides this treatment virtually for 90-min sessions only.

Outside of work, Andria enjoys spending time with her husband and three children up at their cabin or travelling to new destinations. She loves animals of all sorts, but has a special place in her heart for dogs. She also loves to be creative and crafty, and hopes to learn how to cook someday!

…Nothing ever is, but is always becoming. – Plato

Professional Membership: American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, Minnesota Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.

Marriage and Family Therapy Bill of Rights Bill of Rights Download

Adam Palowski is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Minnesota. He has 9 years of experience working with kids, adults and families that have been working through anxiety, depression, and many other various challenges in their lives. Adam is Passionate about helping others achieve their goals, problem solving, and making sure individuals feel safe.

Adam brings warmth, genuineness, and compassion to the therapy session. He believes in building a strong relationship with his client’s to ensure they feel safe and heard. Adam is open-minded and brings a systemic approach to help people look at situations in different perspectives.

Adam has provided counseling in a variety of settings, in home, group home, outpatient, and online. Adam has had a wide variety of clinical experiences, he works with different age groups including children, adolescents, and adults. Adam has been trained in many different modalities, he has been trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TFCBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Multisystemic Therapy (MST).

Adam believes everyone has the ability to make changes and grow through therapy. He wants to help them meet their therapeutic goals and be the person they want to be.

Adam currently lives in Minnesota with his wife, two daughters and their dog. He enjoys being outside going for runs, being out on the lake, and traveling to the various events his kids have.

Parris Brisco is currently completing her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and is working toward licensure as an LMFT. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Psychology and a Master’s degree in General Psychology. Before entering the MFT field, Parris worked as a Registered Behavior Therapist for three years and gained valuable experience as a social worker supporting the mature adult population.

Parris has extensive experience working with trauma, panic disorders, anxiety, neurodivergent individuals, BIPOC communities, and the LGBTQIA+ community. In addition to her internship, she also facilitates therapeutic groups for diverse populations and is deeply committed to providing inclusive, affirming care.