Philosophy & Values

Pivotal Psychotherapy & Development was created to empower mental health professionals seeking deeper fulfillment, meaningful connections, and opportunities for growth. Too often, our field fosters a culture of silent struggle, where seeking guidance is met with judgment or compliancy rather than encouragement. But growth doesn’t happen in isolation, and too many mental health providers are left to navigate their careers alone.
I am redefining what it means to be a mental health professional by removing barriers to mentorship, networking, and shared knowledge. The demands of this work, combined with the emotional weight of our current ecological systems, have left many feeling overlooked and unsupported. True professional fulfillment isn’t just about earning credentials or certifications—it comes from meaningful dialogue, broadening perspectives, and creating spaces that foster both personal and professional growth.
At Pivotal Psychotherapy & Development, we'll challenge the status quo and embrace the reality that no one knows everything—nor should they. The vast landscape of theoretical models and specializations is too expansive for any single provider to master. But what we can do is support one another, grow in curiosity, and cultivate the confidence to thrive in our work together. This is a place to reignite your passion, refine your skills, and reconnect with the purpose that brought you here in the first place. Together, we can build a future where mental health professionals feel confident, connected, and capable of creating lasting change.
About Lisa...
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I have dedicated my career to providing comprehensive support to individuals of all ages and family systems. My work has spanned various levels of care, including in-home children's mental health services, day treatment programs for both children and adults, research assistant at the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities, and my current role as an outpatient therapist.
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I’m passionate about learning, teaching, and helping others grow through training and mentorship. This has always been a space where I thrive, and I’m excited to step back into it with Pivotal Psychotherapy & Development. Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, exploring my creativity, and cooking—especially anything beyond kid-friendly meals!
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My dream for Pivotal Psychotherapy & Development is to be a trusted space where professionals in our field can find the support and guidance they need—because it’s easy to feel stuck and alone. I want to create a space where courage is met with community, and where seeking help and embracing vulnerability are seen as essential to both personal and professional growth.

Education & Training
Education
Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, MN. Degree earned: Bachelors of Arts
Argosy University - Twin Cities, Eagan, MN (formally known as the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology). Degreed earned: Master's of Arts in Clinical Counseling. Received: Presidential Leadership Award.
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Post-graduate education:
University of St. Thomas - Minneapolis, MN
Licensure
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Board Approved BBHT Clinical Supervisor
Certifications and Specific Trainings
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Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
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​Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
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Post Induction Therapy
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Memory Reconsolidation
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Certified Master ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) clinician
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EMDRIA trained EMDR clinician (currently working on certification)
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Certified Clinical Trauma Professional - Level 1​
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Other trainings: Polyvagal Theory, Somatic EMDR from The Embody Lab, EMDR with Children & Adolescents through the Agate Institute (Ana Gomez), Somatic Psychology interventions through Somatic Experiencing Institute and with Abi Blakesee, SEP, CMT, MFT, PhD.
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Current trainings I am working through: Advanced EMDR trainings, Flash Technique, Four Blinks.
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Things I am currently learning more about:
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Dissociation
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Working with Veterans
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Supporting marginalized and oppressed communities​​
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Intergenerational Trauma
Areas of Speciality
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Ages: 5+
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Children, Adolescents, and Adults
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Family systems​
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Specific Phobias
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Acute Trauma / Single Event
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Complex Trauma
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Developmental Trauma
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PTSD
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Life Transitions / Adjustment Disorders
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Attachment
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Neurodiversity
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Autism
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ADHD
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Learning Disorders
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2E children
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High Masking
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Perfectionism
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familiarity with PDA